My PC keeps restarting after installing AOL

The most common reason for a computer to endlessly restart after installing the AOL software is a corrupted install or damaged installer. To resolve this, you will need to remove then reinstall the AOL software in Safe Mode using an AOL CD.

You may wish to print or save a copy of these instructions as this page may not remain visible as you go through the suggested steps.

Information you need
You will need to know what version of the Microsoft Windows operating system is installed on your computer. If you do not know how to find this information, follow the instructions in the online help article entitled How to determine which version of Windows I have.

Restart your computer into safe mode, remove the AOL software, then restart the computer

To stop the computer from endlessly restarting, we need to restart the computer into safe mode. This is a diagnostic mode with limited functionality which will allow you to remove the corrupted AOL software, then start the computer normally. While in safe mode, the desktop will look much larger and have reduced color display capability. These changes in appearance and reduction in functionality will revert to the settings you are used to once the AOL software is removed and the computer is restarted.

Note: If you do not have an AOL CD, you will need to get one before trying to reinstall the AOL software. If you need to use your computer, you can remove the AOL software to stop the endless restart loop, but you will not be able to sign on to the AOL service until you get an AOL CD and reinstall the AOL software.

To restart the computer in safe mode and uninstall AOL:
1. Click the Start button, then click the Turn Off Computer or Shut Down button.
2. Click the Restart option to select it, then click the OK button.
3. While the computer restarts, tap the F8 key on the keyboard, once every second until a menu appears.
4. Using your keyboard, highlight the Safe Mode option.
5. Click the Yes or OK button.
6. Click the Start button, select Settings, then click Control Panel.
Windows XP/Vista Users: Select Start then click Control Panel.
7. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.
8. Click AOL or AOL Uninstaller to highlight it, then click the Change/Remove button.
9. Click all versions of the AOL software to highlight them, then click the Next button.
10. Click the Next button.
11. Click the Finish button.
12. Click the OK button to restart the computer.

Reinstall the AOL software

Once the PC has been rebooted, insert the AOL CD and follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall the software.