How to Fix the Startup Repair Loop in Windows 10/11

If you’re stuck in a frustrating Startup Repair loop on your Windows 10 or 11 computer, don’t panic. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as corrupted system files, outdated drivers, or hardware problems. However, there are several methods you can try to resolve the loop and get your system back up and running. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to fix the Startup Repair loop and prevent it from happening again.

Disable Automatic Restart

If you can see the Advanced Boot Options during the Startup Repair loop, you can simply select the option “Disable automatic restart on system failure” and then wait for your PC to reboot. This will prevent your computer from automatically restarting and may provide more detailed error messages that can help you identify the root cause of the problem.

Run chkdsk on the Boot Volume

Another method to fix the Startup Repair loop is to run the chkdsk (Check Disk) command on your boot volume. To do this, you’ll need to boot from a Windows installation disc or USB drive and select “Repair your computer” from the options. Then, choose “Command Prompt” and enter the command “chkdsk /f /r c:” (replace “c:” with the drive letter of your Windows installation if necessary). This command will scan your drive for errors and attempt to fix them.

Update BIOS, Windows Updates, and Drivers

Outdated or incompatible BIOS, Windows updates, and drivers can sometimes cause the Startup Repair loop. Make sure to update these components to their latest versions to resolve any compatibility issues and improve system stability.

Perform a System Restore

If you have a system restore point created before the Startup Repair loop started, you can try performing a system restore. Boot from a Windows installation disc or USB drive, select “Repair your computer,” and then choose “System Restore.” Select the appropriate restore point and follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system to a previous state.

Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot can help you determine if the Startup Repair loop is caused by a third-party application or service. To perform a clean boot, boot into Safe Mode and then disable all non-Microsoft services and startup items. If the issue is resolved, you can gradually re-enable the disabled items to identify the culprit.

Perform a Repair Install or Reinstall Windows

If none of the above methods work, you may need to perform a repair install or completely reinstall Windows. A repair install will keep your personal files and some settings intact, while a full reinstall will erase everything on your system drive. Back up your important data before proceeding with either option.

In conclusion, the Startup Repair loop can be a frustrating issue, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve it and get your system back to normal. Remember to keep your system updated, back up your data regularly, and be cautious when making changes to your system configuration to prevent future issues.