When I enabled workgroups I was logged in, it required a reboot. LDAP and the Microsoft Networking for Workgroups are two different things, you are correct and they do not conflict.
I can log in with or without Ldap, well at least I could before this incident. On comment on "its not your machine"; had I lifted a laptop I wouldn't go through this much trouble and frustration to reclaim the data. It just not worth it, when you can reformat and actually use the computer. Coming to a public forum would be a lot of exposure for a thief. I suspect a lot of folks come to this site because they've almost given up on reclaiming their lost digital photos, resumes, and trick spreadsheets, hoping this port of last resort might illuminate them to an option.
I can select the domain or a local login. That is how I could work on the Ldap network and in turn work from home.
No changes, I've watched others hose themselves doing just that. It was messy, and I didn't want that to happen to my system.
Safe mode is a good idea, I haven't tried it yet since it is the same login, but it's worth a shot, thanks.
I'll give it workout, thanks. The trick is finding the driver. The initial challenge loads it for me, so it must be locked up in the boot record.