How to Quickly Create Engaging Product Demos With Vidnoz AI
Looking to create engaging product demos in minutes? Look no further! This guide will introduce you to the best tool for the job.
Fix Windows Failed to Start: A Recent Hardware or Software Change Might Be the Cause
If you encounter the error message stating, "Windows failed to start. A recent hardware or software change might be the cause," it typically indicates that a new hardware or software installation could be responsible. To identify the root cause, troubleshooting is crucial. Below are some common reasons for this issue:
- Corrupted BCD (Boot Configuration Data)
- Damaged System Files
- Loose or Faulty SATA/IDE Cable
- Conflicting Third-party Software
- Malware or Virus Infection
The error will persist upon reboot, trapping you in a continuous reboot loop. To get your Windows back up and running, follow the comprehensive troubleshooting methods outlined below.
Contents
- Fix Windows failed to start. A recent hardware or software change might be the cause.
- Method 1: Run Startup/Automatic Repair
- Method 2: Boot into Last Known Good Configuration
- Method 3: Perform a System Restore
- Method 4: Run SFC and CHKDSK
- Method 5: Rebuild BCD Configuration
- Method 6: Set Correct Boot Order
Fix Windows failed to start. A recent hardware or software change might be the cause.
Method 1: Run Startup/Automatic Repair
- Insert the Windows 10 bootable installation DVD or Recovery Disc and restart your PC.
- When prompted to "Press any key to boot from CD or DVD," press any key.
- Select your language preferences, and click Next. Then, click on Repair your computer.
- On the "Choose an option" screen, click Troubleshoot.
- Click on the Advanced options screen, and select Automatic Repair or Startup Repair.
- Wait for the repair to complete, then restart and check if the issue is resolved.
Also Read: How to fix Automatic Repair couldn’t repair your PC.
Method 2: Boot into Last Known Good Configuration
- Restart your Windows 10.
- Enter BIOS setup and configure your PC to boot from CD/DVD.
- Insert the Windows 10 bootable installation DVD and restart your PC.
- When prompted, press any key to continue.
- Select your language preferences, and click Next. Then choose Repair your computer.
- On the Troubleshooting screen, click Advanced options and then Command Prompt.
- Type C: and hit enter.
- Enter the command:
BCDEDIT /SET {DEFAULT} BOOTMENUPOLICY LEGACY - Close Command Prompt and click continue to restart Windows.
- On the Boot Options screen, select Last Known Good Configuration (Advanced).
Method 3: Perform a System Restore
- Input the Windows installation media or Recovery Drive and select your language preferences, then click Next.
- Click on Repair your computer.
- Choose Troubleshoot, followed by Advanced options.
- Select System Restore and follow on-screen instructions to complete the process.
- Restart your PC to see if the issue is resolved.
Method 4: Run SFC and CHKDSK
- Access the command prompt from the installation disk using the previous method.
- Enter the following commands:
- Exit the command prompt and restart your PC.
sfc /scannow /offbootdir=c:\ /offwindir=c:\windows
chkdsk C: /f /r /x
Method 5: Rebuild BCD Configuration
- Open the command prompt again using the Windows installation disk.
- Enter the following commands one by one:
- If the command fails, use:
bootrec.exe /FixMbr
bootrec.exe /FixBoot
bootrec.exe /RebuildBcd
bcdedit /export C:\BCD_Backup
c:
cd boot
attrib bcd -s -h -r
ren c:\boot\bcd bcd.old
bootrec /RebuildBcd
Exit the command prompt and restart Windows.
Method 6: Set Correct Boot Order
- Restart your computer and repeatedly press the Delete or F1 or F2 key to enter BIOS setup.
- Select the Boot tab.
- Ensure the Hard Disk or SSD is set as the top priority in the Boot order.
- Press F10 to save changes and exit.
- Fix High CPU Usage By TiWorker.exe
- 10 Ways to Fix A Disk Read Error Occurred
- Fix High CPU Usage by svchost.exe (netsvcs)
- Fix High CPU Usage by RuntimeBroker.exe
Ultimately, you have hopefully managed to Fix Windows failed to start. A recent hardware or software change might be the cause. If you have further questions or need assistance, please feel free to leave your comments below.
31 Comments
Leave a Comment
Zooper Widget for Android 2.36 - Latest Version Updates for 2024 and 2025
Discover the latest updates in Zooper Widget for Android. Zooper Widget is a compact, highly customizable, and battery-friendly widget with endless possibilities.
Lipp for iOS 4.4 - Make lip sync and voiceover videos on iPhone / iPad 2024, 2025
Lipp for iOS, alongside Dubsmash and Musical.ly, provides iPhone and iPad users with a new platform to create lip sync videos and dub videos readily.
How to Share Audio with TeamViewer - Latest Version Updates 2024, 2025
Learn how to share audio using TeamViewer, including the latest updates for 2024 and 2025, making remote communication more effective.
Adorable Home: Latest Tips for Petting Your Cat in 2024 and 2025
Learn the latest tips on how to pet a cat in Adorable Home for optimal gameplay in 2024 and 2025. Discover what positions give you hearts.
OrangeHRM Open Source 3.2.1 - Latest Features for 2024 and Beyond
Explore the latest features of OrangeHRM Open Source, a free HR management system tailored to meet evolving business needs in 2024 and 2025.
How to Fix IDM Error Not Catching Download Links - Updates for 2024 and 2025
Fix IDM not catching file download links. Discover solutions for downloading videos, music, and more with the latest IDM updates in 2024 and 2025.
The File Converter for Android - Convert files to other formats - Updated Versions 2024, 2025
Discover the latest version of The File Converter for Android, an application that converts various file formats efficiently.
Updated Zalo Web Login Features for 2024-2025
Explore the latest features of Zalo Web, allowing users to chat and connect seamlessly on various browsers without installation.
PDF Password Remover 6.0 - The Ultimate Solution for Password Removal in PDF Files
PDF Password Remover is a powerful tool for removing passwords and restrictions from PDF files. Download the latest version for 2024 to experience enhanced features.
Latest Instructions for Completely Removing Internet Download Manager (IDM) - Updated for 2024 and 2025
Step-by-step instructions to completely remove Internet Download Manager (IDM) from your system in 2024 and 2025. Learn to uninstall IDM effectively and cleanly.
Mindjet MindManager 2024 & 2025 - Empower Your Mind Mapping
Discover Mindjet MindManager, an innovative software that helps individuals and teams streamline their work processes through effective mind mapping and project management.
Su Doku 2.0.0 - Latest Updates 2024 & 2025
Su DoKu 2.0.0 is an advanced Sudoku game design software that captivates enthusiasts with its simplicity and functionality. Download now and challenge yourself with Sudoku puzzles.
Google Photos for Android - Unlimited Photo and Video Storage with Latest Features in 2024, 2025
Discover the new features of Google Photos for Android in 2024 and 2025, including faster backup and advanced search capabilities.
Updated IQmango DVD Ripper 2024 - New Features and Enhancements
Discover the latest version of IQmango DVD Ripper in 2024, a powerful software to easily rip, copy, convert, and back up DVDs.
Liam123 -
Anyone else experienced this after a Windows update? I'm curious if that's a common issue.
Mike123 -
I had the same issue after installing a new printer. Followed the steps described here and it worked perfectly
Mia Thompson -
Just wanted to say THANK YOU for this post! I was about to give up, but now I'm hopeful
Emma Watson -
This is so frustrating! I upgraded my RAM last week, and now I'm stuck on a blue screen. Is there a way to revert the changes?
Benjamin N. -
Could you provide more examples of software changes that typically cause this error? That would help a lot
Jack W. -
For those who are wondering, be careful with driver updates. They can sometimes cause these issues too
Lily F. -
This feels like a never-ending battle with technology. Can't we catch a break
Jasmine W. -
I had a similar issue after changing my graphics card. The steps here really helped!
Felix the Feline -
OMG, you guys! I just saved my computer using these tips. Happy dance!
Ava Good -
This made me smile. The last time I faced this, it turned out to be a loose cable. Double-check those connections, people
Charlie the Techie -
You should always back up your data before any hardware change! Lesson learned the hard way
John Doe -
Thanks for this guide! I recently did a hardware upgrade and now my Windows won't start. I appreciate any help I can get!
David Brown -
I appreciate the detailed steps. After trying them, my PC is back to life! Kudos
Daisy L. -
Thank you for this informative piece! I can now restore my laptop after trying your solutions
Oliver T. -
This happens all the time with my old PC. A reboot usually seems to fix it temporarily, though
Oscar B. -
What a lifesaver! I didn't expect a software change could lead to such chaos. Thanks for sharing!
Victoria H. -
Don't lose hope! Sometimes a simple BIOS reset can do wonders. Just remember to back up
Taylor J. -
I love your sense of humor in this post! It made reading about tech issues much lighter
Logan W. -
Why does it feel like Windows needs a PhD to operate sometimes? 😂
Grace Lee -
Thank you for the troubleshooting tips! I managed to fix my issue with your help, very much appreciated
Leo J. -
I think the best way is to check recently installed programs and uninstall any suspicious ones.
Noah M. -
Great article! Followed your steps, and I’m back up and running! You’re awesome!
Emily R. -
Your guide saved me hours of headache! Thank you for making it so easy to follow
Freddie P. -
I think hardware issues are often blamed for software changes. They can be so interlinked!
Cooper the Cat -
Isn't it funny how technology can betray us? Just when you think everything is perfect, boom! Windows fails to start.
Sunny D -
Anyone else find it absurd that we have to deal with these issues in 2023? It's frustrating.
Alex K. -
Can you explain more about how to check hardware changes? I'm not very tech-savvy
Sophia H. -
Has anyone tried using Recovery Options? I'm stuck and unsure what to do next
Charlotte A -
I wish I had found this article sooner. I lost so much time trying random fixes
Riley O. -
Anyone else find it ironic that the more tech we have, the more problems we face? It's a cycle
Sam Gamer -
I’ve had my share of system failures, all due to hardware changes. Staying cautious now