Windows - Disabling AutoRestart

This document explains how to disable Autorestart, a feature whereby Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7 automatically restart the computer following severe system crashes.

When an XP, Vista, and Windows 7 system is set to automatically reboot upon system failure, it will restart so quickly that the diagnostic Blue screen will scarcely be perceptible, much less readable. In these cases, sometimes it is useful to disable this feature, so that if the problem reoccurs more troubleshooting information is available to the user. For information on Blue Screens and how to troubleshoot them, see Windows - Troubleshooting Blue Screen Errors.
To disable Auto-Restart, follow these steps:

Windows XP

1. Right-Click on "My Computer", and click "Properties" from the context menu that appears.
2. Click on the "Advanced" tab.
3. Click on "Settings" under "Startup and Recovery" (see screenshot).
4. Uncheck the box labeled "Automatic Restart".

Windows Vista/7

There are two ways to disable Auto-restart in Vista.
Disabling Auto-Restart from the Advanced Boot Option This method can be used even when the computer is not bootable; simply restart the machine and tap F8 repeatedly right after the manufacturer's startup screen appears, exactly as if you were booting into Safe Mode. If done properly, you will see the "Advanced Boot Options" menu. Select "Disable Automatic Restart on System Failure" and hit enter. The computer will attempt to boot with Auto-Restart disabled.
Disabling Auto-Restart from the System Properties Window The second means of disabling Auto-Restart is very similar to the procedure for XP, and thus only works if the system boots.

1. Right-Click on "My Computer", and click "Properties" from the context menu that appears.
2. Click "Advanced System Settings" in the "Tasks" sidebar (screenshot).
3. Click on "Settings" under "Startup and Recovery".
4. Uncheck the box labeled "Automatic Restart".

Lastly, note that even when the system automatically reboots, a technician with the right tools can still gather the blue screen information ex post facto.