So, could you have repaired it without wiping the drive?
I realize it's after the fact but this issue most likely could have been resolved without formatting...
the page fault stop erorr would have (with some searching) lead to the conclusion that it was the tool bar that was causing the problem...
The tool bar (executable) could have been removed or renamed with the use of a bootable Live CD which would have prevented Windows from trying to load it...problem solved...
[side note] as I previously mentioned...I always recommend that Windows users keep a Live CD handy... not only can it be used to recover data it can be handy for many other uses...
Those not familiar with a 'Live CD'...it is a complete desktop workstation operating system that runs from the CD and a ramdisk that it creates using the extended system memory...it writes nothing to the hard drive and leaves nothing behind...it will allow the use of a computer that does not even have a hard drive installed...
Example...say Windows crashes for whatever reason...pop in the Live CD and in a couple of minutes you will have complete working desktop workstation...complete with web browser, e-mail and much more application software than comes with most retail Windows systems...if there is an Ethernet or Wireless connection available it will already be connected and working (no need to load any drivers etc)...everything works right out of the box.
[another example] say your Windows system becomes so infected with malicious softwre it can't be used (viruses. trojans, malware etc..) you can use a Live CD to run an AV scan and remove the offending software
Anyone that has never experienced a Live (Linux) CD will be amazed IMO...(some may never go back to Windows)
[some Linux background Info)
There are many different versions (distributions) of Linux...many (but not all) offer "Live CD" editions...All are free to download ...
The easiest way to obtain one is to download the disk image (ISO) and burn it to a CD (or DVD)...if you do not want to bother burning your own CD...most of the distributors will mail you one for $1-$2...for more information visit
DistroWatch.com: Put the fun back into computing. Use Linux
if anyone would like more detailed information post a specific request or PM me...I will be happy to recommend a particular "flavor" of Linux that will best suit your needs...
I can also explain how to make your own bootable Live CD that you cary with you, that you can put in just about any computer anywhere...and when it's booted you will have your own customized desktop...with all your data, web favorites/bookmarks...as well as all your e-mail settings etc...it is like taking your whole computer anywhere you go on a CD/DVD or even a USB flash drive ...