When Windows cannot boot, you can troubleshoot: first check the power connection, peripherals, and monitor; secondly try to enter safe mode to troubleshoot drivers or software conflicts; then use the built-in recovery tool to fix startup problems; finally consider system restore or reset. In most cases, there is no need to worry about data loss, and step-by-step operations usually solve the problem.

When Windows won't start, it can be frustrating, especially if you need to access files or get work done. The good news is, not all startup issues means your system is beyond repair. In many cases, you can troubleshoot and fix the problem without losing data. Here's what you can do when Windows won't boot.

Check the Basics First

Before diving into complex fixes, make sure the issue isn't something simple:

• Power connection : If you're using a desk, check that the power cable is securely plugged in. For laptops, try plugging it in — sometimes it appears dead but just needs charging.
• External devices : Unplug everything except the keyboard and mouse. Faulty USB drives, printers, or even a phone charging through USB can prevent Windows from starting.
• Monitor connection : If you see no display at all, double-check your monitor cable or try a different screen to rule out display issues.

Sometimes, the system might actually be booting fine, but you're just not seeing it due to an external device or display problem.

Try Safe Mode for Troubleshooting

If Windows starts but doesn't fully load (you might see a logo then a black screen), try entering Safe Mode. This mode loads only essential drivers and services, which helps identify software-related issues.

To enter Safe Mode:

1. Force shut down the computer by holding the power button for 10 seconds. Do this three times in a row — on the third attempt, Windows will usually go into recovery mode.
2. From there, choose "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options" > "Startup Settings" > "Restart."
3. After rebooting, press the number key corresponding to “Enable Safe Mode with Networking.”

Once in Safe Mode:

• Uninstall recent drivers or software updates
• Run a virus scan
• Check for hardware conflicts in Device Manager

If Windows boots in Safe Mode but not normally, the issue is likely related to a startup program or driver conflict.

Use Recovery Tools Built Into Windows

Windows has built-in recovery tools that can help fix boot problems without needing another PC or installation media.

Here's how to use them:

• When your PC fails to start after a few tries, it should automatically open the Automatic Repair screen. Let it run — it often fixes common boot configuration issues.
• If that doesn't work, go to "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options" > "Command Prompt." Then run:

   bootrec /fixmbr
  bootrec /fixboot
  bootrec /rebuildbcd

These commands repair the Master Boot Record, write a new boot sector, and rebuild the boot configuration database — all common culprits in startup failures.

Consider System Restore or Reset

If none of the above works, you have two main options:

• System Restore : If you know when things were working fine, restore your system to that point. This won't delete your personal files, just system settings and installed programs.
• Reset This PC : As a last resort, you can reset Windows. You'll have the option to keep your files or remove everything. This reinstalls Windows and can resolve deep-rooted issues.

Both options are available under “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” in the recovery environment.

There are plenty of reasons why Windows might refuse to start — from corrupted files to faulty drivers — but most of the time, you don't need to panic. Go step by step through these options, and chances are you'll find one that gets you back up and running.

The above is the detailed content of What to do when Windows won't start. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!