How to Repair Windows Without CD: 7 Effective Methods

If your Windows computer is experiencing startup issues, crashes, or other problems, you may need to repair it. While using a Windows installation CD is a common method, it’s not always available. Fortunately, there are several ways to repair Windows without a CD. In this article, we’ll explore seven effective methods to fix your Windows computer without the need for a physical disc.

Method 1: Launch Startup Repair

Startup Repair is a built-in Windows tool that can help fix common startup issues. To launch it:

1. Boot your computer from the Windows installation media or a recovery drive.
2. Choose “Troubleshoot” from the options.
3. Select “Startup Repair” and follow the on-screen instructions.

Startup Repair will scan your system and attempt to fix any startup problems it finds.

Method 2: Scan Windows for Errors

Another way to repair Windows without a CD is to scan your system for errors using the System File Checker (SFC) tool. Here’s how:

1. Boot your computer from the Windows installation media or a recovery drive.
2. Choose “Troubleshoot” > “Command Prompt”.
3. In the command prompt, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
4. Wait for the scan to complete and reboot your computer.

The SFC tool will scan your system files and attempt to fix any corrupted or missing files.

Method 3: Run BootRec Commands

If your computer fails to boot due to a damaged Master Boot Record (MBR), you can use the BootRec tool to fix it:

1. Boot your computer from the Windows installation media or a recovery drive.
2. Choose “Troubleshoot” > “Command Prompt”.
3. In the command prompt, type the following commands and press Enter after each one:

bootrec /fixmbr bootrec /fixboot bootrec /scanos bootrec /rebuildbcd 

These commands will attempt to repair your computer’s boot configuration.

Method 4: Run System Restore

If you have previously created a system restore point, you can use it to roll back your system to a previous state:

1. Boot your computer from the Windows installation media or a recovery drive.
2. Choose “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “System Restore”.
3. Select a restore point and follow the on-screen instructions.

System Restore will revert your system to the selected restore point, which may fix any issues you’re experiencing.

Method 5: Reset This PC

If none of the above methods work, you can try resetting your PC to its factory settings:

1. Boot your computer from the Windows installation media or a recovery drive.
2. Choose “Troubleshoot” > “Reset This PC”.
3. Select “Keep my files” or “Remove everything” and follow the on-screen instructions.

Resetting your PC will reinstall Windows and remove any installed programs, but it will keep your personal files intact.

Method 6: Run System Image Recovery

If you have previously created a system image, you can use it to restore your computer to a previous state:

1. Boot your computer from the Windows installation media or a recovery drive.
2. Choose “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “System Image Recovery”.
3. Select your system image and follow the on-screen instructions.

System Image Recovery will restore your computer to the state it was in when the system image was created.

Method 7: Reinstall Windows 10

If all else fails, you can try reinstalling Windows 10 from scratch:

1. Create a Windows 10 installation media using another computer.
2. Boot your computer from the installation media.
3. Choose “Install now” and follow the on-screen instructions.

Reinstalling Windows will erase all data on your computer, so make sure to back up any important files before proceeding.

In conclusion, there are several ways to repair Windows without a CD. From launching Startup Repair to reinstalling Windows, these methods can help fix a wide range of issues. If you’re unsure which method to use, it’s always best to consult with a professional or refer to Microsoft’s official documentation for guidance.