Is your PC stuck in a boot loop, showing a black screen, or failing to reach the desktop? This guide covers the most effective recovery steps.

Symptoms

  • PC loops on startup or shows automatic repair screen

  • Stuck on the Windows logo or loading animation

  • Black screen with cursor only

Step-by-Step Resolution

1. Power-Cycle the PC

  1. Hold the power button for 10-15 seconds until the machine turns off

  2. Unplug from power (remove battery if it's a laptop with a removable battery)

  3. Wait 30 seconds

  4. Reconnect power and turn on

2. Boot into Advanced Startup Options

  1. Turn the PC on

  2. When you see the Windows logo, hold the power button to force shutdown

  3. Repeat this 3 times

  4. On the fourth start, you should see "Preparing Automatic Repair" then Advanced options

3. Use Startup Repair

  1. From Advanced options, choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair

  2. Select your account and enter your password if prompted

  3. Let the tool run (this may take 10-20 minutes)

  4. Restart when complete

4. Try System Restore or Uninstall Updates

In Advanced options:

  • Choose System Restore and pick a date before the problem started

  • Or choose Uninstall Updates to remove recent quality or feature updates

5. Boot into Safe Mode

  1. From Advanced options, choose Startup Settings > Restart

  2. Press 4 (or F4) for Safe Mode

  3. If Safe Mode works, uninstall recently installed drivers or software

  4. Go to Settings > Apps and remove suspicious recent installations

Windows still won't boot? This may require data backup and a repair install or recovery. To avoid data loss and choose the right path, our team can guide you through safe recovery options.

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