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How to Fix Installation Failed First Boot Phase Error During Sysprep on Windows 11

Encountering the “Installation Failed First Boot Phase” error during Sysprep on Windows 11 can be frustrating. This error usually appears when the system setup process is interrupted or misconfigured. Understanding the cause and following clear steps can help resolve this issue quickly.

Sysprep is an essential tool used to prepare a Windows installation for imaging or deployment. When this process fails during the first boot phase, it prevents the system from completing setup properly. Fixing this requires checking both system settings and configurations.

This article guides you through simple to advanced troubleshooting steps to fix the Sysprep installation error on Windows 11. Each step is explained in detail to ensure even beginners can follow along.

By the end, you will know how to identify the root cause and apply the proper solution to get Sysprep working again without hassle.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Ensure you have administrative rights on the Windows 11 machine where Sysprep is running.
  • Make sure no Windows Updates are actively installing or pending restart, as this can interfere with Sysprep.
  • Check that your Windows 11 version is supported and fully updated to avoid compatibility issues.
  • Always back up important files before making system changes.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Try Again

Sometimes, a simple restart clears temporary files or processes that block Sysprep. Before diving into complex fixes, restart your PC and attempt to run Sysprep again.

This step is important because leftover system processes or pending operations can cause the first boot phase to fail.

Step 2: Remove Pending Updates and Clear the Software Distribution Folder

Windows Updates in progress can prevent Sysprep from completing. To resolve this, you need to clear any pending updates:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator. To do this, press Windows key + S, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator.
  2. Stop the Windows Update service by entering:
    net stop wuauserv
  3. Stop the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) with:
    net stop bits
  4. Navigate to the Software Distribution folder by typing:
    cd %windir%SoftwareDistribution
  5. Delete the contents of the folder (this removes update cache):
    del /f /s /q Download
    del /f /s /q DataStore
  6. Restart the services stopped earlier:
    net start wuauserv
    net start bits

Clearing this folder forces Windows to reset the update process, which often resolves the Sysprep error.

Step 3: Check and Remove Additional User Accounts

Sysprep requires only the default user account to be present on the system. Extra user accounts can cause the first boot phase to fail.

To check and remove extra accounts:

  1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Accounts > Family & other users.
  3. Review the list of users and remove any non-essential accounts by selecting them and clicking Remove.

Having multiple user profiles can interfere with Sysprep’s ability to generalize the system, so ensuring only the default account exists helps avoid errors.

Step 4: Reset the Windows Activation Status

Sysprep can fail if Windows activation status is not reset correctly. Run the following command in an elevated Command Prompt to reset licensing status:

slmgr /rearm

This command resets the Windows licensing status and allows Sysprep to proceed without activation-related issues. After running it, reboot your PC before attempting Sysprep again.

Step 5: Remove Registry Keys That Block Sysprep

Sometimes, leftover registry entries from previous Sysprep attempts can block the process. To fix this:

  1. Press Windows key + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  2. Navigate to the following key:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMSetupStatusSysprepStatus
  3. In the right pane, look for the CleanupState value.
  4. If CleanupState is set to anything other than 2, double-click it and change the value to 2.
  5. Close Registry Editor and restart your computer.

Changing this key tells Windows that Sysprep cleanup is complete, which can fix errors related to the first boot phase.

Step 6: Use the System File Checker and DISM Tool

Corrupted system files can cause Sysprep to fail. Running built-in repair tools fixes these problems:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Run the System File Checker:
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. It will automatically fix detected issues.
  4. Next, run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool:
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. After DISM finishes, restart your PC and try Sysprep again.

These tools ensure the Windows image is healthy and ready for Sysprep to complete without errors.

Alternative Method: Using Audit Mode to Bypass First Boot Phase

If the error persists, try entering Audit Mode before running Sysprep. Audit Mode allows you to customize Windows without completing setup:

  1. Restart your PC.
  2. When the Windows Setup screen appears, press Ctrl + Shift + F3.
  3. Your PC will boot into Audit Mode and automatically log in as the Administrator.
  4. In Audit Mode, run Sysprep with the generalize option.

This method bypasses the first boot setup phase, reducing chances of failure during Sysprep.

FAQs

What causes the “Installation Failed First Boot Phase” error during Sysprep?

This error often occurs due to pending Windows updates, multiple user accounts, corrupted system files, or improper system activation status.

Can I run Sysprep multiple times on the same Windows installation?

No, Sysprep has a limit on how many times it can be run on a Windows image. Exceeding this limit may cause errors.

Is it safe to delete the SoftwareDistribution folder contents?

Yes, deleting this folder only clears cached Windows Update files and does not harm your system. It can help resolve update-related issues.

Will resetting activation status cause Windows to deactivate?

No, the slmgr /rearm command resets the activation timer temporarily but does not deactivate your license.

What should I do if Sysprep still fails after all steps?

Consider creating a fresh Windows 11 installation or using a clean system image to avoid configuration issues.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above methods resolve the Sysprep error, you can try the following final steps:

  • Restore your system from a clean backup image that has not been customized.
  • Perform a clean install of Windows 11 and avoid installing conflicting software before running Sysprep.
  • Consult the official Microsoft Sysprep documentation for in-depth troubleshooting: Microsoft Sysprep Guide.
  • Post your issue on Microsoft Tech Community forums for personalized support.

Conclusion

The “Installation Failed First Boot Phase” error during Sysprep on Windows 11 is a common but fixable problem. By following the step-by-step instructions outlined above, you can identify and resolve the root causes effectively. Always start with simple checks like restarting your PC and clearing updates, then move to more advanced fixes such as registry edits or running system repair tools.

Remember to keep your system clean, updated, and properly activated before running Sysprep. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to seek help from official Microsoft resources or community forums. With patience and careful troubleshooting, you can successfully complete the Sysprep process and deploy your Windows 11 image without errors.

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