All I did was let Windows update install SP1. I get the box:

Startup Repair cannot repair this computer automatically.

I'm now doing a full system recover...thank goodness this was a new computer! So, do I prevent the thing from doing a Windows update? How do you take care of Vista when it crashes when doing a "security and bug update"?

Or do I just go backwards and install XP on this thing?

First off, did you try the "return to last good settings" option when you hit f8 during start?

Usually update issues like that are a fluke and reinstalling will the OS will keep it from happening again, but XP isn't a terrible idea. A lot of people still prefer XP over vista and if you take that route you can always reinsall Vista later if you choose, since your Key is still valid.

I you google Vista SP1 you'll find that a lot of folks have this problem. I would hold off on updating SP1 until MS issues an OK on it!