Computer Fails to Start Properly When Loading Windows 11

If your computer fails to load Windows 11 correctly, it can be due to various hardware or software issues. Below, we’ll explore the most common reasons for this problem and the steps you can take to fix it.

1. Common Causes of Incorrect Windows 11 Startup

Hardware Issues

  • Hard Drive or SSD Problems: If the storage drive has issues, the system might freeze or show an error during boot.
  • Insufficient or Unstable Power Supply: A faulty power supply unit (PSU) can cause unexpected restarts or incorrect boot sequences.
  • Faulty RAM: Problems with the memory can trigger a blue screen of death (BSOD) or prevent proper startup.

Software Issues

  • Driver Conflicts: Outdated or incompatible drivers may interfere with a normal Windows startup.
  • System Updates: Some updates might conflict with installed programs or drivers, causing startup issues.
  • System Errors and Viruses: Malware can damage system files, leading to boot problems.

2. How to Fix Startup Issues

Using Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)

Windows Recovery Environment offers tools for troubleshooting and system recovery:

  1. Restart your computer, and press the F8 or F11 key repeatedly (depending on your computer model) to enter WinRE.
  2. Select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → System Restore.
  3. Follow the prompts to choose a restore point from when your system last worked properly.

Running System File Check

To check and repair damaged system files, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator (type cmd in the search bar and select Run as administrator).
  2. Enter the command sfc /scannow and press Enter. This will scan and attempt to repair any corrupt system files.

Uninstalling Recent Updates

If the issue started after a recent update, you may need to uninstall it:

  1. Restart your computer and enter WinRE.
  2. Select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Uninstall Updates.
  3. Choose either Uninstall latest quality update or Uninstall latest feature update and follow the instructions.

Reinstalling Windows 11

If the above methods don’t resolve the issue, reinstalling Windows may be necessary:

  1. Create a Windows 11 installation media using the official Microsoft website.
  2. Insert the USB drive and restart your computer, selecting to boot from the installation media.
  3. Follow the installation prompts, and choose the option to “Keep my files” if you want to preserve your data.