If you’re experiencing startup issues with your Windows computer, running the Startup Repair tool can help resolve many common problems. This guide will walk you through the process of running Startup Repair from various methods, including from the Settings app, desktop, and BIOS. We’ll also cover troubleshooting steps to help you get your computer back up and running smoothly.
Running Startup Repair from Settings
One of the easiest ways to access Startup Repair is through the Settings app. Here’s how to do it:
Go to the Settings app by pressing Win I on your keyboard.
Navigate to Update & Security and select the Recovery tab.
Under Advanced Startup, click on Restart Now.
In the next window, go to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Repair.
Running Startup Repair from the Desktop
You can also run Startup Repair from the desktop using the power options menu:
Click on the Start menu and click the Power button.
Hold down the Shift key and click on Restart.
The computer will restart, and you will see the Troubleshoot boot menu.
Go to Advanced Options > Startup Repair.
Running Startup Repair When You Can’t See the Lock Screen
If you’re unable to see the lock screen, you can still trigger Startup Repair by following these steps:
Power on your system. Before you see the Windows 10 loading screen, press the power button again to power the system off.
Repeat this process 3-5 times. The Startup Repair tool should be triggered.
You will see a message saying Windows 10 failed to boot and is now running Startup Repair.
Running Startup Repair from BIOS
If you’ve tried all the above methods and Startup Repair still fails to appear, you’ll need a Windows 10 installation disk. Here’s what you need to do:
Access another working Windows 10 PC and create a bootable Windows 10 installation disk.
Insert the installation disk into your computer and restart it.
Press the appropriate key (e.g., F2, F12, or Del) to enter the BIOS setup.
Set the computer to boot from the installation disk.
Follow the on-screen instructions to boot from the installation disk.
On the Install Windows screen, select Next > Repair your computer.
On the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot.
On the Advanced options screen, select Startup Repair.
Troubleshooting Startup Repair Issues
If Startup Repair is unable to fix your startup problems, there are a few additional steps you can take:
Clean Boot: Perform a clean boot by using System Configuration (msconfig) to test services one at a time and determine which one is causing the problem.
Disable Driver Signature Enforcement: If the computer starts in Disable Driver Signature mode, follow the steps to determine which drivers or files require driver signature enforcement.
Directory Services Restore Mode: If the computer is a domain controller, try Directory Services Restore mode (DSRM).
Remember to always keep your BIOS, Windows updates, and drivers up to date to prevent future startup issues. If you still can’t access the Windows operating system after trying these troubleshooting steps, it may be necessary to seek further assistance from Microsoft or a qualified technician.