How to Use Windows 10 Startup Repair Tool in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

In 2024, Windows 10 users may encounter various startup issues, such as the dreaded blue screen of death (BSOD), boot loops, or the inability to access the operating system altogether. Fortunately, Microsoft has included a powerful tool called Startup Repair to help resolve these problems. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to access and utilize the Windows 10 Startup Repair tool effectively.

Accessing Startup Repair from Settings

One of the easiest ways to enter Startup Repair is through the Windows Settings app. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key I.
2. Navigate to Update & Security and select the Recovery tab.
3. Under the “Advanced startup” section, click on Restart now.
4. In the next window, select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Repair.

Accessing Startup Repair from the Desktop

You can also access Startup Repair from the Windows 10 power options menu:

1. Click on the Start button and select the Power icon.
2. Hold down the Shift key and click on Restart.
3. The computer will restart, and you’ll see the Troubleshoot boot menu.
4. Select Advanced Options > Startup Repair.

Accessing 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:

1. Power on your system and press the power button again to turn it off before seeing the Windows 10 loading screen.
2. Repeat this process 3-5 times.
3. The Startup Repair tool should now be activated.
4. You’ll see a message saying “Windows 10 failed to boot and is now running Startup Repair.”

Accessing Startup Repair from BIOS

If none of the above methods work, you’ll need a Windows 10 installation disk:

1. Create a bootable Windows 10 USB drive or DVD on another working PC.
2. Boot your problematic PC from the installation media.
3. Press Shift F10 to open a command prompt.
4. Type the following command and press Enter: bcdedit /set {default} bootmenupolicy legacy
5. Restart your PC and enter the BIOS setup.
6. Change the boot order to boot from the installation media first.
7. Save changes and exit the BIOS.
8. Your PC should now boot from the installation media.
9. Select your language and click “Repair your computer.”
10. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Repair.

Using Startup Repair to Fix Boot Problems

Once you’ve accessed the Startup Repair tool, follow these steps:

1. Select your Windows account.
2. Enter your account password and click Continue.
3. The Startup Repair tool will scan your system and attempt to fix any startup issues.
4. If successful, your PC will automatically reboot.
5. If the repair process fails, you’ll see a “Startup Repair couldn’t repair your PC” message.
6. In this case, click Shut down and restart your PC.

The Startup Repair tool generates a log file called “SrtTrail.txt” located at C:\Windows\System32\Logfiles\Srt. This file contains information about the diagnostics and repairs performed, which can be helpful for troubleshooting purposes.

If Startup Repair is unable to resolve your startup issues, you may need to consider performing a clean installation of Windows 10. This process will erase everything on your computer but can help fix persistent problems related to performance, battery life, and other issues.