Troubleshooting window start up

Booting a Computer

• There are two fundamental ways to boot a computer:

Hard Boot (Cold Boot)

• Turning on the power with the on/off switch
• Takes more time than a soft boot
• Initializes the processor and clears memory

Soft Boot (Warm Boot)

• Using the OS to reboot
• Initial steps performed by UEFI/BIOS in a hard boot are skipped
• Saves time by restarting the system quickly
• If a soft boot doesn't work, use a hard boot as an alternative

Power Button and Switch Functions

• A power button in front can be configured as a "soft" power button, triggering a Windows restart.
• The reset button initializes the CPU and restarts at the beginning of the BIOS/UEFI startup.
• The switch on the rear of the case acts as a "hard" power button, turning off the power abruptly.

Troubleshooting Windows Hangs

• When Windows hangs, attempt a restart as the first step.
• If a restart doesn't work, try a shutdown followed by powering the system back up.
• If the shutdown method fails, press the reset button on the front of the case.
• If all else fails, turn off the power switch on the rear of the case, wait 30 seconds, turn it back on, and then press the power button on the front of the case.

Booting the Computer and Starting Windows

• The boot process involves several steps, as outlined in Table 6-1

Startup BIOS/UEFI

• Responsible for early steps in the boot process
• Reads information from onboard RAM, including:
  • Inventory of hardware devices
  • Hardware settings
  • Security passwords
  • Date and time
  • Startup settings
• Surveys hardware devices against the list kept in RAM

POST (Power-On Self Test)

• A series of tests run by Startup BIOS/UEFI to ensure correct communication with essential hardware components

UEFI Boot Manager and Device Drivers

• Loaded by Startup UEFI

Windows Boot Manager

• Reads settings from the BCD (Boot Configuration Data)

Steps to Boot the Computer and Start Windows

• Windows Boot Loader (winload.exe) is responsible for loading Windows components during the boot process.

Roles of the Kernel (Ntoskrnl.exe)

• Activates the Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) and reads additional information from the registry.
• Builds the registry key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\HARDWARE in memory.
• Starts critical services and drivers configured to be started by the kernel.

Roles of the Session Manager (Smss.exe)

• Runs in user mode after being started by the kernel.
• Loads the graphical interface.
• Starts the client/server run-time subsystem (csrss.exe).
• Starts the Logon Manager (winlogon.exe) and executes commands stored in the registry.

Windows Boot Process

• Winlogon.exe is responsible for:
  • Starting the Service Control Manager (services.exe)
  • Starting the Local Security Authority process (lsass.exe)
  • Displaying the sign-in screen for user authentication
  • Passing user account and password to lsass.exe for authentication
  • Launching usernit.exe

Windows Startup

• Userinit.exe applies:
  • Group Policy settings
  • Programs stored in startup folders and startup registry keys, unless trumped by Group Policy
• Windows startup is complete when:
  • Windows desktop or Start screen appears
  • Pinwheel wait icon disappears

BIOS/UEFI Checks

• BIOS checks essential hardware during POST (Power-On Self-Test)
• BIOS checks BIOS/RAM to find OS and consults MBR (Master Boot Record)
• BIOS searches for active partition and loads booting
• BIOS reads BCD (Boot Configuration Data) store
• If video is not active, BIOS sends error message as beeps or speech
• If video is active, BIOS displays error message on-screen

UEFI

• UEFI loads UEFI Boot Manager
• UEFI loads EFI device drivers and enforces Secure Boot
• UEFI follows boot file path
• UEFI loads bootmfw.efi
• UEFI reads BCD store

Windows Boot Loader

• During normal startup, Windows Boot Loader loads OS kernel (ntoskrnl.exe)
• Windows Boot Loader loads HAL (Hardware Abstraction Layer)
• Windows Boot Loader loads System registry hive
• Windows Boot Loader reads registry and loads device drivers for BIOS systems
• Windows Boot Loader starts memory paging process
• Windows Boot Loader turns over startup to OS kernel (ntoskrnl.exe)

Alternative Boot Options

• In a dual-boot system, Windows Boot Manager screen appears
• When user presses Spacebar, Windows Boot Manager screen appears
• When user presses F8, Advanced Boot Options screen appears
• When Windows previously stopped abruptly, Error Recovery screen appears

Booting the Computer and Starting Windows

• The OS kernel activates the Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) during the boot process.

OS Kernel Initialization

• The kernel reads more of the registry and builds the registry key HKLM\Hardware into memory.
• Critical services and drivers are started by the kernel.
• The Session Manager (Smss.exe) is started in user mode, which includes:
  • Starting the subsystem to display graphics and the Windows flag.
  • Starting Csrss.exe, the subsystem that interacts with applications.
  • Starting the Logon Manager (Winlogon.exe).

Service Initialization

• The kernel reads and executes other commands stored in the registry, including:
  • Starting the Service Control Manager (Services.exe).
  • Starting services set with type "Automatic".
  • Starting the Local Security Authority Process (Lsass.exe), which:
    • Displays the logon screen and passes the user account and password for authentication.
  • For Windows 7, updating the Last Known Good Configuration.
  • Launching Userinit.exe.

###Finalizing the Windows Load

• The kernel applies group policy settings and loads any programs stored in registry keys and folders, unless prevented by group policy.

Methods to Boot the System

• Boot from a Windows 10/8 recovery drive to troubleshoot startup problems
• Use Windows setup media or system repair disc to boot the system
• Press F8 at startup to access Windows Startup Menu (must be enabled)

Windows Startup Menu

• Access Previous version (if available) in Windows 10
• Use Repair upgrade in Windows 10
• Perform Fresh Start in Windows 10
• Reset the PC in Windows 10
• Refresh the PC in Windows 8
• Reset the PC in Windows 8

Advanced Options Menu

• Access Command prompt to troubleshoot startup problems
• Change Startup settings (if available)
• Access Advanced Boot Options Menu

Windows Recovery Environment

• Apply system image to restore the system
• Perform system repair to fix startup problems
• Restore system to a previous point
• Use commands to fix system files, volumes, and partitions
• Access UEFI firmware settings
• Disable driver signatures, anti-malware, early launch, and automatic restarts
• Enable boot logging, VGA mode, and Safe Mode options

Pre-Problem Preparation

• Keep good backups of data while the computer is still healthy
• Create a system image to ensure easy restoration of the system
• Configure Windows 10/8 to use the F8 key at startup to access the Advanced Boot Options menu
• Create recovery boot media to troubleshoot and repair Windows

Recovery Boot Media Options

• Create a Windows 10/7 DVD system repair disc
• Create a Windows 10/8 USB recovery drive
• Create Windows 10 setup media using the Media Creation Tool

System Repair Disc

• A system repair disc can be used to launch Windows RE (Recovery Environment)
• Creating a system repair disc:
  • In Windows 7, click Create a system repair disc in the Backup and Restore window
  • The created repair disc's architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) matches the architecture of the Windows installation used to create it

Windows 8 System Repair Disc

• In Windows 8, the option to create a system repair disc is hidden

Windows 10/8 Recovery Drive

• Most computers have an OEM recovery partition on the hard drive, containing drivers specific to the computer.
• It's recommended to back up the OEM partition to a Windows recovery drive before a problem occurs.

Creating a Recovery Drive

• To create a recovery drive, open Control Panel and click Recovery, then click Create a recovery drive and respond to the UAC dialog box.
• Choose whether to Include system files, then click Next.
• Windows will report the size of the USB flash drive needed, and you'll need to insert a drive of that size.
• Windows will inspect the size of the drive, and if it's large enough, it will be listed among available devices.
• Click Next, then click Create to begin the process.

Windows 10 Media Creation Tool

• Launching Windows Re is possible from a Windows setup DVD or flash drive
• The Media Creation Tool allows creation of a bootable Windows setup ISO file, DVD, or flash drive on a working computer

Launching Windows RE when Windows Works Normally

• Use the Windows 10 Settings app to launch Windows RE by going to Advanced startup and clicking Restart now
• Press Shift + Restart to launch Windows RE
• Click the Power icon, press and hold Shift, and click Restart to launch Windows RE
• Use the Command prompt to launch Windows RE by entering shutdown /r/o

Launching Windows RE when Windows Cannot Start Normally

• Windows automatically launches automatic diagnostics and repairs when it detects startup problems
• Boot from a USB recovery drive, DVD system repair disc, or Windows setup DVD or USB drive to launch Windows RE
• Press F8 during startup to launch Windows RE

Startup Repair

• Startup Repair is a built-in diagnostic and repair tool in Windows.
• It can fix Windows system files without altering Windows settings, user data, or applications.

Running Startup Repair

• To run Startup Repair, access Windows RE (Recovery Environment) and navigate to the Advanced options screen.
• Click Startup Repair to initiate the process.

Startup Repair Process

• Windows RE examines the system to identify and fix problems.
• A report is generated detailing the actions taken during the repair process.
• Suggestions for further fixes may be offered.

Log File

• A log file of the Startup Repair process is created and stored at C:\Windows\System32\LogFiles\SRT\SRTTrail.txt.

Changing Startup Settings

• The Startup Settings option is available only when Windows RE is launched from the hard drive, not from another media.

Debugging and Boot Logging

• Pressing 1 or F1 enables Debugging, moving system boot logs from the failing computer to another computer for evaluation.
• Pressing 2 or F2 enables Boot Logging, which:
  • Loads Windows normally
  • Records all files used during the load process in C:\Windows\Ntbtlog.txt
  • Allows users to see what did and did not load during the boot process

Startup Tools

• Press 3 or F3: Enable Low-Resolution Video to fix display issues or troubleshoot video driver problems.

Safe Mode

• Press 4 or F4: Enable Safe Mode to perform various troubleshooting tasks, including:
  • Launching antivirus software
  • Opening Event Viewer
  • Running the System File Checker command
  • Rolling back a driver using Device Manager
  • Verifying memory with Memory Diagnostics
  • Checking for file system errors with the chkdsk /r command
  • Configuring Windows for a clean boot on next restart

Startup Settings

• Press 5 or F5 to enable Safe Mode with Networking:
  • Use when solving booting problems and network access is required
  • Use when Windows installation files are available on the network

Safe Mode with Command Prompt

• Press 6 or F6 to enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt:
  • Use the sfc /scannow command to verify system files
  • If the problem is not solved, launch System Restore:
    • Run C:\Windows\system32\rstrui.exe

Changing Startup Settings

• Pressing 7 or F7 disables Driver Signature Enforcement, which is required in 64-bit Windows editions to ensure kernel-mode drivers are digitally signed, and is useful for developers testing kernel-mode device drivers.

Disabling Security Features

• Pressing 8 or F8 disables the Early Launch Anti-Malware Driver, a Windows 10/8 feature that allows antivirus software to launch a driver before third-party drivers to scan for malware.

System Failure Handling

• Pressing 9 or F9 disables Automatic Restart on System Failure, preventing Windows from rebooting when it encounters a system failure.

Changing Startup Settings

• Pressing 7 or F7 disables Driver Signature Enforcement, which is required in 64-bit Windows editions to ensure kernel-mode drivers are digitally signed, and is useful for developers testing kernel-mode device drivers.

Disabling Security Features

• Pressing 8 or F8 disables the Early Launch Anti-Malware Driver, a Windows 10/8 feature that allows antivirus software to launch a driver before third-party drivers to scan for malware.

System Failure Handling

• Pressing 9 or F9 disables Automatic Restart on System Failure, preventing Windows from rebooting when it encounters a system failure.

Accessing System Restore

• System Restore can be accessed from the Windows RE Advanced options screen
• System Restore can be accessed from the Windows 7 System Recovery Options screen
• System Restore can be accessed within Safe Mode
• System Restore can be accessed using the rstrui command in a command prompt

Limitations of System Restore

• System Restore may cause loss of Windows updates
• System Restore may cause loss of updates to anti-malware software
• System Restore may require reinstallation of hardware devices and apps

Situations Where System Restore Won't Help

• System Restore is ineffective when the file system is corrupted
• System Restore is ineffective when the registry is corrupted

Windows RE Command Prompt

• Used when graphical interface is missing or corrupted
• Useful for running specific commands to fix problems when Windows won't start
• Provides administrator privileges and full read and write access to all files on all drives

Accessing Windows RE Command Prompt

• Accessible from Windows 10/8 Advanced options screen
• Accessible from Windows 7 System Recovery Options screen

Scene Description

• A brown bear is eating noodles with chopsticks.
• A white panda bear is standing beside the bear, holding a cup of boba tea and gazing at the bear with heart eyes, indicating admiration or affection.

Kitchen Setting

• The scene takes place in a kitchen where the bear and panda are located.
• A bowl of noodles is placed on the table in front of the bear.
• A cutting board with vegetables is positioned in front of the panda.

Visual Elements

• A small chalkboard is suspended above the panda, with an arrow pointing to it, suggesting a potential menu or recipe display.

Image Details

• The image is titled "Bubu & Dudi's World" at the bottom, indicating the name of the setting or scene.

Managing Data Files and System Files in Windows RE

• Use SFC or DISM commands to restore critical Windows system files
• Manage data and system files using the following commands:
  • cd for navigating directories
  • copy for duplicating files
  • rename for changing file names
  • delete for removing files
• Restore registry files using backups saved in the RegBack folder
• Reboot the system after each fix to verify if the problem is resolved
• Utilize commands from Table 6-2 to restore registry files

Command Prompt in Windows RE

• c: command makes drive C: the current drive with the default directory set to root.

Directory Navigation

• dir command examines the contents of the current drive, defaulting to drive C: if not specified.
• cd \windows\system32\config command makes the Windows registry folder the current folder.

Registry File Renaming

• ren command renames registry files, including:
  • default to default.save
  • sam to sam.save
  • security to security.save
  • software to software.save
  • system to system.save

Registry Backup

• cd regback command makes the registry backup folder the current folder.
• copy system c:\windows\system32\config command copies the System hive from the backup folder to the registry folder, recommended for hardware problems before rebooting.

Troubleshooting Software Problems in Windows RE

• When encountering software problems in Windows RE, a possible solution is to copy the Software hive to the registry folder and then reboot.
• If the problem persists, try copying all five hives to the registry folder and reboot.
• The five hives that can be copied to the registry folder are:
  • Software
  • System
  • Default
  • SAM
  • Security

Repairing Hard Drive File Systems and Partitions

• Use chkdsk /r to repair file systems on hard drives
• Utilize diskpart to manage hard drives, including creating and modifying partitions and volumes

Enabling Networking in Windows RE

• Networking is not enabled by default in Windows RE command prompt
• Run wpeinit to enable networking in Windows RE command prompt

Repairing Boot Files and BCD

• Use bootrec to repair Boot Configuration Data (BCD) and boot sectors
• Utilize bcdedit to manually edit the BCD
• Run bootsect to repair dual boot systems

The Command Prompt in Windows RE

• The bootrec /scanOS command scans the hard drive for Windows installations not stored in the Boot Configuration Data (BCD).
• The bootrec /rebuildBCD command scans for Windows installations and rebuilds the BCD.
• The bootrec /fixboot command repairs the boot sector of the system partition.
• The bootrec /fixmbr command repairs the Master Boot Record (MBR) for hard drives using the MBR partitioning system.
• The bcdedit /enum command displays the contents of the BCD.

Options to Reinstall Windows

• When repair efforts fail, reinstalling Windows is the next step.
• Options for reinstalling Windows are listed below, from least to most intrusive:

Reinstallation Options

• Windows 10/8 Previous Version: Restore to a previous version of Windows.
• Windows 10 Repair Upgrade: Upgrade Windows while keeping files and settings intact.
• Windows 10 Fresh Start: Reinstall Windows, removing applications and settings, but keeping personal files.
• Windows 10 Reset: Reinstall Windows, removing all files, applications, and settings.
• Windows 8 Refresh: Reinstall Windows, removing applications and settings, but keeping personal files.
• Apply a Windows 10/7 System Image: Restore Windows from a system image.
• Windows 8 Reset: Reinstall Windows, removing all files, applications, and settings.
• Install from OEM Recovery Partition: Reinstall Windows from the OEM recovery partition.
• Windows 10/8/7 Clean Install: Reinstall Windows from setup media, erasing all data.

Windows 10 Update Cycle

• Minor updates to Windows 10 are distributed on the second Tuesday of every month.
• Major updates, known as versions, are released once or twice a year.

Reverting to a Previous Version

• If a new version is causing issues, you can revert to the previous version.
• Reversion is possible if:
  • The new version was installed within the last 10 days.
  • You have not reset your computer during this timeframe.
  • The Windows.Old folder has not been deleted.

Rolling Back Windows Updates

• There are two ways to roll back Windows updates: from the Windows desktop and from Windows RE.
• To roll back from the Windows desktop:
  • Open the Settings app
  • Click Update & security
  • Click Recovery
  • Under "Go back to the previous version of Windows 10," click Get started
• To roll back from Windows RE:
  • The option is available on the Advanced options screen in Windows RE
  • Use this method when a new version has caused the system to fail to start

Windows 10 Repair Upgrade

• A repair upgrade is a non-destructive installation of Windows 10 over an existing Windows installation, preserving existing data, apps, and settings.

Preparing for a Repair Upgrade

• Create Windows setup media on DVD or USB, or save an ISO file on the local hard drive.
• Ensure full boot capability into Windows 10 before proceeding.
• Backup all data as a precautionary measure, despite the repair upgrade's protective nature.
• Collect product keys for all installed apps to facilitate easy reinstallation if needed.

Windows 10 Fresh Start

• Performs a clean installation of the latest version of Windows 10, removing manufacturer bloatware

What is Installed, Kept, and Not Kept

• Installed: latest generic copy of Windows, free from manufacturer bloatware
• Kept:
  • User accounts
  • User settings
  • Personal data
  • Some Windows settings
  • Microsoft apps natively integrated in Windows
  • Microsoft store apps installed by the computer manufacturer
• Not Kept:
  • All apps, except those stated above
  • Manufacturer drivers
  • OEM system files

Post-Fresh Start

• A list of removed apps is displayed on the desktop after the Fresh Start completes

Windows 10 Fresh Start Installation

• Ensure internet connection and sufficient storage space before proceeding with the installation
• Access the Fresh Start feature through the Settings app, specifically in the Update & Security section
• Locate the Recovery option to find the More Recovery Options section
• Click on Learn how to start fresh with a clean installation of Windows to access the Fresh Start page
• Confirm the decision by clicking Yes to proceed to the Fresh Start page
• Initiate the Fresh Start installation process by clicking Get Started

Windows 10 Reset

• Windows 10 reset allows users to keep: • User accounts • Some Windows settings • All personal data files
• What is removed during a reset: • Third-party apps • Third-party drivers
• Some Windows settings changes will be lost during a reset
• Microsoft account users can opt to have many Windows settings automatically resynced to the device

Recovering Windows using a System Image

• To recover Windows 10/8 using a system image file, reboot the computer into Windows RE, navigate to the Advanced options screen, and select System Image Recovery
• For Windows 7, select System Image Recovery on the System Recovery Options screen

OEM Factory Recovery Partition

• Laptops and brand-name desktops often have a recovery partition on the hard drive that contains:
• A copy of the OS build
• Device drivers
• Diagnostics programs
• Preinstalled applications
• The recovery partition may be hidden or visible
• To access the recovery tools stored on the recovery partition:
• Check the manufacturer's website for instructions
• Look for a message at the beginning of the boot process
• If the recovery partition is corrupted or nonexistent:
• Download recovery media from the manufacturer's website to create a: + Bootable USB flash drive + Bootable DVD

Installing Windows Over the Network

• Boot the computer to the network to begin the installation process
• The computer loads Windows PE from the deployment server
• Enable PXE Support in the BIOS/UEFI setup to allow the computer to boot to the network
• The computer boots to the Preboot Execution Environment (PXE)
• PXE searches for a server to provide Windows PE and the deployment image

Troubleshooting Windows Startup Problems

• Follow a structured approach when troubleshooting startup issues: interview the user, back up crucial data, research error messages, and identify recent changes that may have caused the problem.
• Identify the source of the problem before choosing a troubleshooting tool to use.
• Select the least invasive tool that can still effectively fix the issue.

Important Data on the Hard Drive

• Before proceeding, always ask if there is important data on the hard drive that has not been backed up.

Data Recovery Options

• If data is lost or corrupted, utilize Windows built-in tools to recover data.
• Use third-party software to recover data in case of loss or corruption.
• If all else fails, consider commercial data recovery services.

Data Transfer Methods

• Use a SATA-to-USB converter kit to connect a desktop or laptop hard drive to a USB port on a working computer.
• Utilize File Explorer or Windows Explorer to copy data from the hard drive to other media.

Windows Startup Errors

• Windows startup errors can be caused by hardware, device drivers, services, applications, or Windows itself.
• Startup error messages often appear on a black screen.

Common Startup Error Messages

• No OS found
• A disk read error occurred
• Invalid boot disk
• Hard drive not found
• Disk boot failure
• No boot device found

Resolving Slow Profile Load Issues

• Utilize the Windows Troubleshooting applet to identify and fix problems
• Ensure all Windows updates are applied to prevent compatibility issues
• Run the sfc/scannow command to scan and repair corrupted system files
• Reduce the number of startup items to minimize clutter and improve performance
• Apply a previously created system restore point to revert to a stable state
• For Windows 10, perform a repair upgrade to fix underlying issues
• Create a new user profile as a last resort to start with a clean slate

Error Messages and Problems

• Blue screen of death (BSOD) errors are also known as stop errors
• Stop errors occur when processes running in kernel mode encounter a problem and Windows must stop the system to prevent further damage
• Causes of stop errors include:
  • Corrupted registry
  • Missing or damaged system file
  • Missing or damaged device driver
  • Bad memory
  • Corrupted or failing hard drive
• Stop errors can occur at two stages:
  • During startup
  • After startup

Error Messages and Problems

• Blue screen of death (BSOD) errors are also known as stop errors
• Stop errors occur when processes running in kernel mode encounter a problem and Windows must stop the system to prevent further damage
• Causes of stop errors include:
  • Corrupted registry
  • Missing or damaged system file
  • Missing or damaged device driver
  • Bad memory
  • Corrupted or failing hard drive
• Stop errors can occur at two stages:
  • During startup
  • After startup

Error Messages and Problems

• When encountering a stop error (blue screen):
  • Search Microsoft websites for the error to find possible solutions
  • Disconnect any peripheral devices that might be causing the issue
  • Reboot the system and read the information in the Windows error message box or bubble
  • Enable boot logging to gather more information about the error
  • Try restarting the system multiple times to see if the issue resolves
  • If the problem persists, launch Windows RE and restart Windows in Safe mode with Networking to troubleshoot the issue

Errors With Hardware and Device Drivers

• When a blue screen error occurs and a specific device or device driver is identified as the cause:
  • If the driver was recently updated and Safe Mode is accessible, roll back the driver using Device Manager.
  • If the driver update coincided with a Windows update, consider reverting to a previous version of Windows.
  • A subsequent Windows update might resolve the issue.
  • Uninstall the problematic device using Device Manager as a troubleshooting measure.

Troubleshooting Blue Screen Errors

• If the blue screen error message does not identify a specific device but names a program file:
• Locate the program file using File Explorer or Windows Explorer
• Check the file's properties to determine its purpose
• Reinstall the device or program that caused the problem

Troubleshooting Windows Startup Issues

• If Windows cannot start in Safe mode:
• Use Windows RE to open a command prompt window
• Back up the registry
• Open the Registry Editor
• Disable the problematic service or driver by changing the Start value to 0x4
• Reboot the system

Errors With Services or Other Programs

• Check the Administrative Events log in Event Viewer for critical errors and warnings
• Use Task Manager to stop the problematic service or program
• Disable the service from launching at startup using Task Manager or the Service console
• Update Windows to resolve potential issues
• Perform a clean boot or Safe boot to isolate the problematic service or program
• Undo recent system changes to troubleshoot the issue

Troubleshooting Tools

• Run the Memory Diagnostics tool to check for memory-related errors
• Use the chkdsk /r command to scan the hard drive for errors

Windows is Corrupted

• Missing Boot Configuration Data: Use the bootrec /rebuildBCD command to resolve the issue.
• Improper Shutdown: To troubleshoot,
• Check Event Viewer for clues
• Apply Windows updates
• Verify memory with Memory Diagnostics
• Use chkdsk /r to check the hard drive for errors
• No graphics appear:
• Try using a different monitor or onboard video port
• Launch a command prompt in Windows RE and perform a System Restore

System Startup

• When a system is turned on, the startup BIOS/UEFI takes control, performing a Power-On Self-Test (POST) to examine hardware components and find an Operating System (OS) to load.

Windows Startup Management

• Windows startup is managed by the Windows Boot Manager.

Pre-Problem Preparation

• Before a problem occurs, ensure:
  • Good backups of user data exist
  • A system image is created
  • The F8 key is configured at startup
  • Recovery boot media is created

Windows RE Startup Options

• Windows Recovery Environment (RE) can be started from:
  • Within Windows
  • The Windows setup DVD
  • A recovery drive
  • A system repair disc

Startup Troubleshooting Tools

System Repair

• Startup repair

Advanced Startup

• Startup settings

System Restore and Safe Mode

• System Restore
• Safe Mode

Command-Line Tools

• Enabling boot logging
• System File Checker (SFC)
• Check Disk (chkdsk)
• DiskPart
• BootRec
• BootSect

Windows Reinstallation Options

• Windows 10 previous version can be used to reinstall Windows.
• A repair upgrade can be used to reinstall Windows.
• Fresh Start can be used to reinstall Windows.
• A reset can be used to reinstall Windows.

Data Recovery

• A hard drive containing valuable data that won't boot may be recoverable by installing it in another system.

Troubleshooting Stop Errors

• Research stop errors online using the error title and error number listed on the blue screen.

Troubleshooting System Hangs

• Improper shutdowns are likely hardware related.
• Boot into Safe Mode and disable the device or service to troubleshoot system hangs caused by a device or service.