Hi,
I have a compaq computer that I need to use the recovery option on. Its vista. Does anyone know how to do this?
Thanks

Try F10 at startup.

Did you try System Restore?

On my computer it's F8. There are various keys used to activate the Recovery Console on different computers. Most of them indicate onscreen during bootup what those keys are, just have to read the screen quickly.

Keys I've seen used:

F8
F10
F11
Delete
Insert

All of them are used immediately after turning on the computer. Sometimes you have to "tap" the key repeatedly, more reliable than hoping pressing it once was timed properly.

thank you ^_^ I used system restore.

System Restore is preferable to Starting from scratch.
If it works.