Computer keeps by-passing windows start up!!!

[captainmorgan]

3 days ago my computer when I rebooted my computer it said it was "bypassing my Windows start up files and went into safe mode. I tried everyting and was told if I re-installed windows (I have 98 still) that it would fix the problem. Well I haven't been able to do that because I couldn't first of all even FIND windows listed in my add/remove hardware, thus if I cannot delete the old version, I cannot install the new one, it won't let me. (I am not using my disc, I am using my sisters since I can't find mine, and her version of 98 is newer than the one I currently have on my computer)
The only reason I am able to be on the internet today is if I try about 10 times with the windows disc it will eventually take the information off it (seems my cdrom drive wasn't working in safe mode either) It seems if I time it just right it reads the CD lets
me on somehow. Now I don't dare shut the computer off because maybe I can get some info here to help? If not I think Im going to have to format and I sure as heck don't want to do that. I though my windows 98 rescue disc might help but I don't even know what to click when I insert the disc UGH. I thought about just deleting the windows file manually (going in a deleting all the Windows files) but then thought if that doesn't work and it doesn't let me install this version Im screwed. It says it won't overwrite my version of 98 because I need to upgrade first??

Man I don't even know where to begin. I probably don't even NEED to re-install windows but have no idea how else to get my computer to NOT bypass my start-up files so it will not go into safe mode. I hope I haven't made this more confusing than it already is.....can ANYONE help me?????? PLEASE I am desperate here and I am NOT shutting this computer off until I find a solution!!!!!

THANKS for any help!!!!!!!!!

[jmtjet]

Have you tried to restore the registry to the "Last known good configuration". If not give this a try; When booting to safe mode choose "command prompt only" from the list.

1. At the C: prompt, type scanreg /restore , and then press the Enter key.
2. Select the previous registry you want to restore, and then press the Enter key. A properly working registry has the word "Started" next to the date.
3. When you receive notification that you restored a properly working registry, press the Enter key to restart your computer.

You might need to try the command a few times to get it to work. You need to leave a space between scanreg and the /restore command. Like this; scanreg(space)/restore. Hope this works for you.

[captainmorgan]

Forgive me for not being computer savy here
the problem is I dont even get a promp screen
it just goes straight to my desktop screen after stating it is "bypassing windows start up files"
I know some about computer but unfortunately not enough to promp commands
I have in the past had the computer go to the screen which you speak of where it asks if you want safe mode or normal but that screen has not come up this time
It just goes directly into safe mode
If I could just get it to boot and NOT bypass my start up files the problem would be solved
UGH I wish I knew more I feel so stupid here lol:dizzy:

[jmtjet]

On boot up, repeatedly tap the F8 key. That "should" get you to the menu were you can select the command prompt option. Start tapping the key as soon as you push the button to start the boot. Post back with your results.