Done something silly with windows 7

I have stopped Windows 7 working properly on main Laptop.

I know what I have done but don't know how to reverse it with out losing files. 

Back ground the mouse is sensitive on said computer and I caught it to update windows when doing something else.  When I turned the computer off I didn't I clicked standby and then the problems started when I rebooted it. I usually run computer on the basis if it ain't broke don't fix it.  

I am now several windows files short and last time I started the computer it froze when it tried to automatically connect with internet, so I turned it off.  That was Christmas time and I have been debating what to do. 

Big problem is I urgently need some videos stored in the Document folder.  I cannot lose the said videos because there is evidence on there which the Police need and they are talking of seizing my computer for six months or more. 

I can restore windows but it is from a time before the videos were stored.

Don't like the idea of the Police seizing the computer because there is personal and business sensitive information stored on there and whilst out of date, I don't like the idea of it getting into the wrong hands.

Is there anything I can do to save the Document/video/picture folder?

Have you tried booting to Safe Mode ? Basically, switch on from main power button, but immediately start pressing the F8 key repeatedly, till the Safe Mode launch screen appears. Then choose to launch Safe Mode, and you should be able to access your files to copy to a USB stick or CD.
If not, try one of the free Rescue Boot CDs (or USBs) from here -

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No I haven't tried safe mode.  Never done that will give a try later when no one is about.  Thank you for your quick reply. 

Your link was to linux - is that another operating system instead of windows.  Technology is beginning to beat me now 

Yes, the boot discs are Linux, but will still work well on any Laptop....you will be able to view and move the files you want to save

A system restore won't delete your files

Tried to do  a system restore Ken and it appeared to make matters worse.    

Joycie, did something silly with my windows last week as well so know how you feel, I scraped along a big bush and the scratch took ages to remove, hope you have better luck -

Was it all 7 windows Bob

   at Bob 

Love ya Joyce glad u saw the funny side, how to see ya when home from Spain.xx