Ubuntu
ubiquity package

How to go back to Vista?

Asked by erica

I installed Ubuntu SIDE BY SIDE with Vista. I want to go back to vista and get rid of Ubuntu. I like it, but I have my reasons to go back.

I DO NOT have a Vista Installation disk. My computer didn't come with one. :(

Please tell me how to go back to vista the way it was, all my files and everything in tact, step by step!!? Thanks. I am not advanced.

Erica :)

Question information

Language:
English Edit question
Status:
Answered
For:
Ubuntu ubiquity Edit question
Assignee:
No assignee Edit question
Last query:
Last reply:
Revision history for this message
mycae (mycae) said : 		#1

Your computer should have come with an installation disc, or a method of generating installation discs. You need to contact your retailer for assistance with obtaining these, as without a windows disc, you can't restore the windows bootloader.

When you get a new machine, always make sure that you have independant copies of any software that came with the machine.

Revision history for this message
actionparsnip (andrew-woodhead666) said : 		#2

If you installed side by side you will have a dualboot, so just reboot and select Vista. If your system doesn't show GRUB, hold shift at boot and it will.

Revision history for this message
bcbc (bcbc) said : 		#3

You have to reinstall the windows bootloader. You can do this from a windows repair disc. For vista the command is "bootrec.exe /fixmbr"
Then, just reuse the Ubuntu partition from the Vista disk management.

For more info, or help in downloading a Vista repair disc http://neosmart.net/wiki/display/EBCD/Recovering+the+Vista+Bootloader+from+the+DVD

It's also possible to use lilo in a form equivalent to the windows bootloader. You can install this from Ubuntu or an Ubuntu live CD. Identify the drive you boot from... usually it's /dev/sda. Then enter the following commands (case-sensitive):
sudo apt-get install lilo
sudo lilo -M /dev/sda mbr

(After the first command there's a warning screen popup that relates to using lilo to boot linux, not for the simple windows type bootloader - hit enter on OK to ignore - continue with the second command, then reboot.)

Can you help with this problem?

Provide an answer of your own, or ask erica for more information if necessary.

To post a message you must log in.