How to Repair Windows Using Advanced Startup Options

How to Repair Windows Using Advanced Startup Options

Windows can sometimes run into issues that prevent it from starting up correctly or functioning properly. In such situations, using the Advanced Startup Options can help you repair your Windows installation. In this article, we’ll discuss the different options available and guide you through using them step by step.

Understanding Advanced Startup Options

Before diving into the repair process, let’s first understand what Advanced Startup Options are and when they should be used.

What Are Advanced Startup Options?

Advanced Startup Options is a menu that offers various tools and features to help you diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair your Windows installation. Some of these options include Safe Mode, System Restore, and Command Prompt, among others.

When to Use Advanced Startup Options

Advanced Startup Options should be used when you’re facing issues with your Windows installation that prevent it from starting up or functioning correctly. These issues can include startup errors, blue screens, driver conflicts, and other problems.

Accessing Advanced Startup Options

There are multiple ways to access the Advanced Startup Options, depending on whether your Windows installation is functional or not.

If Windows Is Functional

  1. Click the Start button, then click on the Power icon.
  2. Hold down the Shift key and click Restart. Your computer will restart into the Advanced Startup Options menu.

If Windows Is Not Functional

  1. Power on your computer.
  2. As soon as the Windows logo appears, press and hold the power button to force a shutdown.
  3. Repeat this process two more times. On the third attempt, Windows should automatically boot into the Advanced Startup Options menu.

Using Advanced Startup Options to Repair Windows

Now that you know how to access the Advanced Startup Options, let’s explore the different tools and options available to repair your Windows installation.

Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services, making it easier to identify and fix issues caused by third-party software or faulty drivers.

  1. In the Advanced Startup Options menu, select Troubleshoot.
  2. Click on Advanced options.
  3. Select Startup Settings and click Restart.
  4. After your computer restarts, press the appropriate key (usually F4, F5, or F6) to choose your preferred Safe Mode option.
  5. Once in Safe Mode, you can uninstall problematic drivers or software, then restart your computer to see if the issue is resolved.

System Restore

System Restore allows you to revert your Windows installation to a previous state, which can be helpful in resolving issues caused by recent system changes.

  1. In the Advanced Startup Options menu, select Troubleshoot.
  2. Click on Advanced options.
  3. Select System Restore.
  4. Choose a restore point from the list and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process. Your computer will restart, and the chosen restore point will be applied.

Command Prompt

The Command Prompt option provides access to a command-line interface where you can run various commands to repair your Windows installation, such as the System File Checker (SFC) or Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tools.

  1. In the Advanced Startup Options menu, select Troubleshoot.
  2. Click on Advanced options.
  3. Select Command Prompt.
  4. To run the System File Checker, type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This will scan your system for corrupt or missing files and attempt to repair them.
  5. To run the DISM tool, type dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth and press Enter. This will repair any issues with the Windows system image.

Conclusion

The Advanced Startup Options provide powerful tools to diagnose and repair various issues with your Windows installation. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can access these options and utilize Safe Mode, System Restore, or Command Prompt to resolve common problems. Remember to use these options as a last resort, and always back up your data before making any significant changes to your system.

FAQs

Q: Can I use Advanced Startup Options if I can’t log in to Windows?

A: Yes, you can access Advanced Startup Options even if you’re unable to log in to Windows. Follow the steps outlined in the “If Windows Is Not Functional” section to access the menu.

Q: What should I do if none of the Advanced Startup Options resolve my issue?

A: If none of the Advanced Startup Options help you resolve your problem, you might need to consider reinstalling Windows. Make sure to back up your data before proceeding with the reinstallation.

Q: Can I create a restore point manually?

A: Yes, you can create a restore point manually. To do this, type “Create a restore point” in the Windows search bar, click on “System Properties,” and then click the “Create” button in the “System Protection” tab.

Q: Can I access the Advanced Startup Options from a Windows installation media?

A: Yes, you can access the Advanced Startup Options by booting from a Windows installation media, such as a USB drive or DVD. After booting, click on “Repair your computer” instead of “Install now” to access the options.

Q: How can I prevent issues that require using Advanced Startup Options?

A: Regularly updating your software, drivers, and Windows itself, along with running antivirus and anti-malware scans, can help prevent issues that might require the use of Advanced Startup Options. Additionally, be cautious when installing new software or making significant system changes, and always create restore points before doing so.