How to Fix “Your PC Did Not Start Correctly” Error

Encountering the “Your PC did not start correctly” error can be a frustrating experience. This error screen usually appears after a failed Windows startup and presents you with options to restart or try advanced options. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve this issue and get your computer back up and running. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most effective solutions.

Understanding the “Your PC Did Not Start Correctly” Error

This error typically indicates that Windows encountered a problem during the startup process, preventing it from loading properly. Several factors can contribute to this issue, including:

  • Corrupted System Files: Critical files necessary for Windows to boot may be damaged.
  • Boot Configuration Data (BCD) Issues: Problems with the BCD, which tells the computer how to boot Windows, can cause startup failures.
  • Driver Problems: Incompatible or corrupted drivers can interfere with the boot process.
  • Hardware Malfunctions: In rare cases, hardware issues like a failing hard drive or RAM can trigger this error.
  • Unexpected Shutdowns: Power outages or forced shutdowns can corrupt system files.

Initial Troubleshooting Steps

Before diving into more advanced solutions, try these basic troubleshooting steps:

  1. Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches. Select “Restart” on the error screen and see if Windows boots normally.
  2. Disconnect Peripherals: Disconnect any external devices (USB drives, printers, etc.) except for your monitor, keyboard, and mouse. A faulty peripheral can sometimes interfere with the boot process.

Advanced Solutions

If the initial troubleshooting steps don’t work, proceed with these advanced solutions:

1. Use Startup Repair

Startup Repair is a built-in Windows tool that automatically diagnoses and fixes common startup problems.

  1. On the “Your PC did not start correctly” screen, click “Advanced options.”
  2. Select “Troubleshoot.”
  3. Choose “Startup Repair.”
  4. Select your account and enter your password, if prompted.

Windows will then attempt to diagnose and repair the startup issues. This process may take some time, so be patient.

2. Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services. If your computer boots successfully in Safe Mode, it indicates that a driver or service is causing the problem.

  1. On the “Your PC did not start correctly” screen, click “Advanced options.”
  2. Select “Troubleshoot.”
  3. Choose “Advanced options.”
  4. Click “Startup Settings.”
  5. Click “Restart.”
  6. After your computer restarts, you’ll see a list of options. Press 4 or F4 to start Safe Mode. Press 5 or F5 to start Safe Mode with Networking (if you need internet access).

Once in Safe Mode, you can try the following:

  • Update Drivers: Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause startup problems. Update your drivers, especially graphics card drivers, network adapters, and storage controllers.
  • Uninstall Recently Installed Programs: If the error started after installing a new program, uninstall it to see if it resolves the issue.
  • Run System File Checker (SFC): SFC scans for and repairs corrupted system files. Open Command Prompt as administrator and type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

3. Rebuild Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

A corrupted or damaged BCD can prevent Windows from booting correctly. You can rebuild the BCD using the Command Prompt.

  1. On the “Your PC did not start correctly” screen, click “Advanced options.”
  2. Select “Troubleshoot.”
  3. Choose “Advanced options.”
  4. Click “Command Prompt.”
  5. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
    • bootrec /fixmbr
    • bootrec /fixboot
    • bootrec /scanos
    • bootrec /rebuildbcd

After running these commands, restart your computer.

4. Perform a System Restore

System Restore allows you to revert your computer to a previous working state.

  1. On the “Your PC did not start correctly” screen, click “Advanced options.”
  2. Select “Troubleshoot.”
  3. Choose “Advanced options.”
  4. Click “System Restore.”
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point and restore your system.

5. Reset Your PC

Resetting your PC allows you to reinstall Windows while giving you the option to keep your personal files or remove everything. This should be considered as a last resort.

  1. On the “Your PC did not start correctly” screen, click “Advanced options.”
  2. Select “Troubleshoot.”
  3. Choose “Reset this PC.”
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose whether to keep your files or remove everything.

Preventing Future Errors

To minimize the chances of encountering the “Your PC did not start correctly” error in the future, consider the following:

  • Regularly Back Up Your Data: Back up your important files regularly to an external drive or cloud storage service.
  • Keep Your Drivers Updated: Regularly update your drivers to ensure compatibility and stability.
  • Install a Reliable Antivirus Program: Protect your computer from malware and viruses that can corrupt system files.
  • Avoid Sudden Shutdowns: Always shut down your computer properly to prevent data corruption.
  • Monitor Hardware Health: Use tools to monitor the health of your hard drive and other hardware components.

By following these troubleshooting steps and preventative measures, you can effectively resolve the “Your PC did not start correctly” error and keep your computer running smoothly.