Experiencing a boot loop after updating to Windows 10 Fall Creators Update can be frustrating. This issue causes your computer to restart repeatedly without fully loading Windows.
Fortunately, there are several step-by-step solutions you can try to fix this problem. Each method is explained simply, so even beginners can follow along.
Before diving into complex fixes, it’s important to understand why boot loops occur. They often happen because of incompatible drivers, corrupted system files, or update installation errors.
Let’s explore practical ways to get your PC back to normal as smoothly as possible.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Backup Important Data: If possible, back up your files using safe mode or a recovery drive.
- Have Windows Installation Media Ready: A USB or DVD with Windows 10 setup can help with recovery.
- Know Your PC Details: Sometimes you’ll need system info like your Windows version or hardware specs.
- Patience is Key: Some steps may take time, especially system repairs or updates.
Step 1: Perform a Simple Restart
Sometimes the issue is temporary. Try restarting your PC by holding the power button until it turns off, then power it on again.
This can clear minor glitches that cause boot loops.
Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode
Safe Mode starts Windows with only essential drivers, helping you troubleshoot problems.
- Turn off your PC by holding the power button.
- Turn it on and immediately press the F8 key repeatedly (or Shift + F8 on some PCs) until the recovery options appear.
- Choose Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
- After restart, select option 4 or press F4 to enter Safe Mode.
Once in Safe Mode, you can uninstall problematic updates or drivers.
Why Safe Mode?
Safe Mode prevents problematic software from loading, making it easier to fix issues like boot loops.
Step 3: Uninstall the Fall Creators Update
If the boot loop started after the update, uninstalling it might help.
- In Safe Mode, open Settings by pressing
Windows + I. - Navigate to Update & Security > Recovery.
- Under Go back to the previous version of Windows 10, click Get started.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the rollback.
This removes the update and can resolve issues caused by faulty installations.
Step 4: Run Startup Repair
Startup Repair automatically fixes problems preventing Windows from starting.
- Insert your Windows 10 installation media and boot from it (you may need to change boot order in BIOS).
- On the Windows Setup screen, click Next, then select Repair your computer.
- Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
- Select your Windows installation and let the repair process run.
This tool scans for and repairs corrupt system files or boot configuration problems.
Step 5: Use System Restore
If you created restore points before updating, you can revert your system to a previous working state.
- Access the recovery environment using the installation media or by interrupting boot 3 times.
- Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
- Select a restore point dated before the Fall Creators Update.
- Follow prompts to restore your system.
This can fix boot loops caused by recent changes without affecting your personal files.
Step 6: Check and Repair Disk Errors
Disk errors can cause boot loops. You can use the command prompt to check disk health.
- Boot into recovery mode using installation media.
- Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
chkdsk C: /f /r /xThis command scans and repairs disk errors on drive C: (where Windows is installed).
Step 7: Reset Your PC
If nothing else works, resetting Windows can refresh your system.
- Boot into recovery mode.
- Choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
- Select whether to keep your files or remove everything.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
This reinstalls Windows and removes problematic software but can result in data loss if you choose to remove everything.
Alternative Advanced Options
- Use DISM and SFC Tools: These commands repair corrupted Windows system files.
- Update Drivers Manually: Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause boot loops.
- Check Hardware: Faulty RAM or hard drives might cause boot issues.
Running DISM and SFC
In Command Prompt (from recovery mode), run these commands one by one:
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannowThese commands scan and repair system files to stabilize Windows.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does fixing a boot loop take?
A: It depends on the method. Simple restarts or safe mode fixes can take minutes, while repairs or resets may take hours.
Q: Will resetting my PC delete my files?
A: You can choose to keep personal files during reset, but apps and settings will be removed.
Q: Can a boot loop be caused by hardware problems?
A: Yes, faulty RAM, hard drives, or other components can cause boot loops.
Q: How do I create Windows installation media?
A: Use the Microsoft Media Creation Tool from another working PC to create a bootable USB or DVD.
Q: What if I can’t access Safe Mode?
A: Try booting into recovery mode by interrupting the boot process three times or using installation media.
When Nothing Works
If all else fails, consider contacting Microsoft Support or a professional technician. You can also visit the official Microsoft Windows Recovery page for detailed guides:
Microsoft Windows Recovery Options
Sometimes hardware diagnostics or reinstalling Windows from scratch may be necessary.
Conclusion
Boot loop errors after the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update can be solved with patience and the right steps. Starting with simple restarts and Safe Mode troubleshooting, then progressing to system repairs and resets ensures a logical approach.
Remember to back up your data and keep Windows installation media ready. If you follow these instructions carefully, you have a good chance of restoring your PC without losing important files.
Stay calm, take it step by step, and your Windows 10 system should be up and running smoothly again soon.