It looked like Microsoft was lastly going to do correct thing. Beta versions of Vista SP1 came with a modern equal of old Windows Boot Floppy a Start Menu choice called "Create a Recovery Disc" that burned a Windows PE-based emergency CD. Unfortunately, Microsoft removed that feature before SP1 shipped, but not before NeoSmart turned the disc into an .iso file and created it available on their site.

Running on Vista version of Windows PE, Recovery Disc is essentially a Vista installation disc minus install files. It even has an "Install now" button that asks for a Product Key before failing. You are better off ticking Repair your computer button. Among its Vista-only options are a tool for diagnosing and fixing startup issues, an edition of System Restore that utilizes restore points on hard drive, the restore portions of Vista's backup program, and a memory diagnostic tool.