Troubleshoot Windows startup loops, Automatic Repair, spinning dots and no-boot messages safely.
Try these checks in order
Save work if possible. Complete one check at a time and retest the original symptom. Stop when the issue is resolved.
01Disconnect accessories
Disconnect nonessential external drives, docks and accessories. Note the exact message and whether the internal drive is detected by the manufacturer's diagnostics.
02Use supported recovery options
If Windows repeatedly fails to start, consider Windows Recovery Environment and Startup Repair before disruptive options. Keep the BitLocker key available if encryption is enabled.
03Protect the files
If the issue began after a driver or update, use the matching recovery option. Back up accessible files before reset, reinstall, format or partition changes.
How to read the result
A boot-device error, recovery loop and sign-in failure are different conditions. The exact screen and drive detection help determine the next safe step.
Use the stage of failure to choose recovery
A failure before the manufacturer's logo differs from a Windows spinning circle, Automatic Repair loop or sign-in failure. Note the last screen that appears and the exact message. If the internal drive is not detected or disappears intermittently, prioritize data recovery; if Windows Recovery sees the drive, use the least disruptive supported repair first.
Before changing more settings: Write down the last screen shown, complete error text, recent update or hardware change, drive detection status, and whether BitLocker is enabled.
Do not format a drive or delete partitions just to make setup continue. If a drive disappears intermittently or holds irreplaceable data, limit restarts and prioritize recovery.
Model-specific reference note
Windows menus and recovery options vary by version and device. Use the exact Windows version, device model and error message when checking your next step. This guide keeps the diagnostic steps together so you can continue troubleshooting without leaving SafeCode.
Related troubleshooting
- Blue Screen or Windows Stop Code: What to Check First
- Windows Asks for a BitLocker Recovery Key
- Windows Update Failed or Is Stuck: Start With the Code
- Windows error-code library
- Back up before repair
Need help narrowing it down?
Still stuck? Get help choosing the next step
Have the model, Windows version, exact error and steps tried available. Never share passwords or recovery keys.
General information only. Menus and recovery options vary by version and device.