Hi Essex! I've Got the same problem with aswRvrt.sys stopping in safe mode, safe mode with networking and safe mode with command, i've also tried Last know good configuration but it isn't working either, all I've got so far is blank screen with mouse pointer if I use system recovery, i wanted to try your method here but i the link to Windows Vista RC is not working.
I have a windows vista home basic, I haven't turned on my Windows update, but I'm not sure if I have my Avast in Auto update.
anyway, before this, I was watching a movie when everything stops, I do a force reboot and after that windows isn't working normally anymore.
Thanks In Advance!