When your Windows computer isn’t booting, it can be a stressful and confusing experience. It’s important to understand the common causes of a computer not booting, and have a plan of action in case it happens to you. Knowing what to do in this situation can save you time and money.
1. Check the Power Source
The first step when troubleshooting a computer that won’t boot is to check the power source. Make sure the power cord is firmly plugged into both the wall outlet and your computer. Also, check that any surge protectors or power strips are on and not tripped.
2. Check the Hard Drive
If the power source checks out, the next step is to check the hard drive. Sometimes the hard drive can become corrupt if there was a system crash or power outage. To check the integrity of the hard drive, press the F8 key during boot up. If the full version of Windows is installed, select “Scan for errors” from the troubleshooting menu.
3. Check for Viruses
If your computer won’t boot, it could also be due to an infection from a virus or malware. Try and run a virus scan from a trusted security program such as Windows Defender. This will help identify if any malicious software is present on your system.
4. Unplug and Replug
Unplugging and replugging the power cable, USB cables, and other connections is another simple step you can take to diagnose and troubleshoot a computer that won’t boot. This can sometimes help to reset certain components or connections that have become loose or disconnected.
5. Boot into Safe Mode
If your computer still won’t boot, try booting into Safe Mode. This allows you to still access Windows, while minimizing any third-party software or drivers that could be causing the problem. To start Windows in Safe Mode, press F8 at boot up, then select “Safe Mode” from the menu.
6. Perform a System Restore
If you’re still having problems getting your computer to boot, then you may want to try performing a System Restore. A system restore will roll back the settings on your computer to an earlier point in time, allowing you to undo any changes that may have caused the issue. To use System Restore, press the F8 key at boot up, then select “System Restore” from the troubleshooting menu.
7. Reset Your BIOS
If none of the above methods work, you may need to reset your BIOS settings. Resetting the BIOS can help to ensure that all of your components are correctly configured and communicating with each other. It’s best to consult your computer’s manual before attempting to reset the BIOS, as doing so can cause more long-term issues.
Conclusion
If your Windows computer isn’t booting, the above steps should provide you with a good starting point for troubleshooting the issue. Remember to always consult your computer’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for the most accurate information about your specific model. Don’t be afraid to contact a professional if the problem persists.