Windows failed to start. A recent hardware or software change might be the cause
Windows failed to start
What it means
The boot manager found Windows but the loader stopped early, so the screen offers Startup Repair or the recovery environment.
Common causes
- A driver or update installed right before the failure
- A boot file that no longer matches the system files
- Hardware that changed, such as a new drive or RAM stick
How to fix it
- Choose Launch Startup Repair once and let it finish, then retry the normal boot.
- If the PC still stops, start from the install stick and use Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates.
- Start in Safe Mode: hold Shift while you choose Restart, then Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart and press 4.