Hello,
I have a computer that will not boot to the windows desktop. I am able to access the cmd prompt using the windows 7 repair/installation disk. I want to copy all the files and folders from the bad desktop to an external hard drive. Is there a command to copy all files and folders to an external hard drive? if not, what is the best way to accomplish this using the cmd prompt?
Thanks for your time.Boot up a LIVE linux boot cdrom such as Ubuntu and USE the file manager to drag the "documents and settings" folder or the desktop to your external USB drive.

You need to see the files you are after in case some have slipped somewhere - a command line solution isn't appropriate for a rescue situation.Thanks foxidrive, your input is greatly appreciated. I will try that tonight.
Thanks again.Keep in mind everything on the desktop is nothing but shortcuts to files/folders and apps...

Have you attempted to run the repair option from the DVD ? ?...last on the list of options i believe in the RC.I've tried the repair option half a dozen times and it is UNABLE to fix it. The closest I've come to booting is I get a windows boot manager error and it restarts. Error number is 0x00000ex9.The Win7 DVD repair should fix this...is this a copy of Win7 ? ?the only disk that came with the computer is labeled:
operating system, Windows 7 upgrade option, vista home to windows 7 home edition. 64 bit edition.

I have tried all the repair options using this disk and they all are unable to repair the problem.

Would a windows 7 live CD be of use to me?

thanks.
There is no "live" Win 7 CD...if you find ONE it's illegal...
What is it you are trying to accomplish here ? ?

Copying OS files from an un-bootable PC won't get you any further down the road...Trying to use a windows repair tool that actually works and lets me get past the hanging black screen of death after the windows logo pops up.Then something in your steps got interrupted or went wrong...
You probably have to run the Win Repair on Vista 1st...then install the Win7 Update after Vista is running properly...