So when I turn on my Vista, it will load to the user screen, and it also allows you to put in the password and enter it. Then, after you sign in when it is "loading" it has the little loading icon with "Welcome" next to it, but it never loads... I've tried it in safe mode, and debugging mode, but it still doesn't move off of this screen.
It has previously worked for months without any problems, so I'm not sure why it is doing this now. Any ideas?

How long have you waited for the computer to load before turning it off? Have you recently installed any new software or updates?

I have the exact same problem. It just happened today. After the welcome screen it stays black. The only thing i can see is the pointer. I left it on for about 4 hours and still nothing. I am pretty sure it's the same problem. I still don't know how to fix it.