How to Create and Use a Windows 10 Repair Disk for Another Computer

Creating a Windows 10 Repair Disk

Creating a Windows 10 repair disk for another computer is a valuable precaution that can help you troubleshoot and fix issues when a system won’t boot properly. Here’s how to make one:

On a working Windows 10 computer, insert a blank DVD or USB drive (at least 16GB).

Search for “Create a recovery drive” in the Windows search bar and select it.

Choose whether to back up system files (recommended) and follow the prompts.

Once complete, label the disk or drive clearly for future use.

Using the Repair Disk on Another Computer

To use the repair disk on the problematic computer:

Insert the repair disk or USB drive into the affected computer.

Restart the computer and watch for a “Press any key to boot from DVD” message.

If you don’t see this message, you may need to access the BIOS settings:

Restart the computer and press the appropriate key (often F2, F12, or Del) to enter BIOS.
Navigate to the boot order settings.
Move the DVD drive or USB to the top of the boot order.
Save changes and exit BIOS.

The computer should now boot from the repair disk.

Follow the on-screen instructions to access repair options such as System Restore, Startup Repair, or Command Prompt.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter issues while using the repair disk:

Ensure the repair disk is compatible with the target computer’s Windows version.
Try using a different USB port if the computer doesn’t recognize the repair drive.
If booting fails, check if Secure Boot is enabled in BIOS and temporarily disable it if necessary.

Remember, creating a repair disk doesn’t back up personal files. Always maintain separate backups of important data.