How to Fix “Windows Could Not Prepare the Computer to Boot into the Next Phase of Installation” Error in Windows 11

Encountering the error message “Windows could not prepare the computer to boot into the next phase of installation” during a Windows 11 installation can be frustrating. This issue usually stops the installation process, leaving users stuck and unsure how to proceed.

Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to troubleshoot and fix this problem. In this article, we will guide you through simple and effective steps to resolve this error.

Each method is explained in clear, easy-to-follow language, so even beginners can understand and apply the solutions. Let’s get started and get your Windows 11 installation back on track.

Before diving into detailed fixes, make sure to follow the quick checks below to avoid common pitfalls.

Quick Note

Check your installation media: Ensure your USB or DVD used for installation is not corrupted or damaged. Using a faulty media can cause setup errors.
Verify system requirements: Confirm that your PC meets Windows 11’s minimum hardware requirements, including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot support.
Disconnect unnecessary peripherals: Remove extra USB devices, external drives, or printers that could interfere with installation.
Use a reliable power source: Avoid installing on battery power if using a laptop to prevent unexpected shutdowns.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Retry Installation

Sometimes, a simple restart can clear temporary glitches causing the error. Restart your computer and try running the Windows 11 setup again. This step is important because some installation failures happen due to transient issues that a reboot can fix.

Step 2: Disconnect All External Devices

External devices such as USB drives, printers, or external hard disks can interfere with the installation process. Disconnect all external hardware except your keyboard and mouse.

After unplugging, reboot your system and start the installation again. This reduces the chances of hardware conflicts during setup.

Step 3: Format the Installation Drive

Sometimes, the partition where Windows is being installed might have corrupted data or previous installation files causing conflicts.

To fix this, during the installation:

When you reach the screen asking where to install Windows, select the drive or partition you want to use.
Click on Format. This will erase all data on that partition, so ensure you have backups if needed.
After formatting, continue with the installation.

Formatting ensures a clean slate for Windows setup and often resolves issues related to previous installation remnants.

Step 4: Disable Secure Boot and Enable Legacy Boot

Secure Boot is a security feature that can sometimes block the Windows installation. Disabling Secure Boot and enabling Legacy Boot (or CSM) in your BIOS/UEFI settings might help.

Here is how to do it:

Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI setup. This usually involves pressing keys like F2, Delete, or Esc during startup (check your PC’s manual).
Find the Secure Boot setting, usually under the Security or Boot tab.
Disable Secure Boot.
Enable Legacy Boot or CSM (Compatibility Support Module) if available.
Save changes and exit BIOS.

Disabling Secure Boot and enabling Legacy Boot allows the installation media to boot without restrictions that may cause the error.

Step 5: Use Diskpart to Clean the Disk

If formatting through the Windows setup does not work, you can use the Diskpart utility to completely clean the drive.

Follow these steps carefully:

Boot from your Windows 11 installation media.
When you reach the installation screen, press Shift + F10 to open the Command Prompt.
Type diskpart and press Enter.
Enter list disk to see all connected drives.
Identify your installation disk by size (e.g., Disk 0), then type select disk 0 (replace 0 with your disk number) and press Enter.
Type clean and press Enter. This erases all partitions and data on the disk.
Type exit to close Diskpart, then close Command Prompt.
Continue installation. Windows will create necessary partitions automatically.

This method ensures your disk is free of any conflicting data or partitions.

Step 6: Reset BIOS to Default Settings

Incorrect BIOS settings may cause installation errors. Resetting your BIOS to default can help resolve configuration issues.

To reset BIOS:

Restart and enter BIOS/UEFI setup.
Look for an option like Load Setup Defaults, Reset to Default, or Factory Reset.
Select it and confirm.
Save changes and exit.

Resetting BIOS clears any misconfigurations that might block Windows installation.

Alternative Method: Use the Media Creation Tool to Prepare Installation Media

If your installation media might be faulty, recreate it using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool.

This tool downloads the latest Windows 11 image and creates a bootable USB drive properly configured for installation.

Steps:

On a working PC, visit the official Microsoft Windows 11 download page.
Download and run the Media Creation Tool.
Follow instructions to create a bootable USB drive.
Use this USB to boot your PC and start installation.

This ensures your installation media is clean, updated, and less likely to cause errors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does the error “Windows could not prepare the computer to boot into the next phase” occur?

This error often happens due to corrupted installation files, incorrect BIOS settings, issues with the installation drive, or conflicts caused by connected devices.

Can I fix this error without formatting my drive?

In some cases, simply restarting, disconnecting devices, or changing BIOS settings can help without formatting. However, if the problem persists, formatting or cleaning the drive is usually recommended.

Is it safe to disable Secure Boot?

Yes, temporarily disabling Secure Boot during installation is safe. You can re-enable it after Windows is installed to maintain system security.

Will cleaning the disk erase my data?

Yes. The clean command removes all data and partitions on the selected disk. Always back up important files before proceeding.

My BIOS does not have a Legacy Boot option. What should I do?

Some newer systems only support UEFI mode. In this case, ensure your installation media is created for UEFI boot and that Secure Boot is disabled.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face the error, consider the following options:

Check hardware health: Faulty hard drives or RAM can cause installation issues. Run diagnostics or replace problematic parts.
Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support site for advanced help.
Seek professional assistance: A certified technician can diagnose and resolve complex hardware or software conflicts.

Conclusion

Fixing the “Windows could not prepare the computer to boot into the next phase of installation” error involves a series of troubleshooting steps starting from simple restarts and device disconnections to formatting drives and adjusting BIOS settings.

By following our detailed, easy-to-understand instructions, you can resolve the issue and complete your Windows 11 installation successfully. Always remember to back up your data before making major changes to your system, and use official tools to create installation media.

With patience and these methods, your installation should proceed smoothly and get your PC up and running with Windows 11 in no time.