Blog

How to Fix Windows 11 Error Recovery Screen Not Working: Step-by-Step Solutions

Encountering the Windows 11 Error Recovery screen can be frustrating, especially when it doesn’t work properly. This issue can prevent you from accessing important troubleshooting tools that help fix your PC.

Fortunately, there are several simple solutions you can try to get past this problem and restore your system. This guide will walk you through easy-to-follow steps designed for users of all levels.

Each step includes explanations to help you understand why it’s necessary and how it contributes to resolving the issue. Take your time and proceed carefully.

By the end of this article, you should be able to fix the error recovery screen and get your Windows 11 PC running smoothly again.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Make sure your PC is plugged into a power source to avoid interruptions during fixes.
  • Take note of any recent changes or updates you made before encountering the error.
  • Have a USB recovery drive or Windows 11 installation media ready if possible.
  • Backing up important files is recommended if you can access your data.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest step can resolve temporary glitches. Press and hold the power button for about 10 seconds until the PC shuts down completely. Wait a few seconds, then press the power button again to turn it back on.

This forces a fresh start and can clear minor software hiccups preventing the recovery screen from working.

Step 2: Perform a Hard Reboot

If the regular restart doesn’t work, try a hard reboot. Disconnect all external devices like USB drives, printers, or external hard disks. Then, hold the power button for 15 seconds to shut down the PC fully.

After waiting 30 seconds, reconnect only the essential devices (keyboard, mouse, and display), and power the computer back on. Removing peripherals helps rule out hardware conflicts that might block recovery options.

Step 3: Boot into Safe Mode Using Automatic Repair

If your recovery screen is unresponsive, Windows 11 might automatically launch Automatic Repair after several failed boots. To trigger this manually:

  1. Turn your PC on, then as Windows attempts to load, press and hold the power button to force shut down.
  2. Repeat this process 2 to 3 times until you see the “Preparing Automatic Repair” message.
  3. Wait for the diagnosis to complete, then select Advanced options.
  4. Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  5. Click Restart, and when the Startup Settings screen appears, press 4 or F4 to enter Safe Mode.

Safe Mode loads Windows with minimal drivers and services, allowing you to troubleshoot without interference from problematic software.

Step 4: Use Command Prompt to Fix Boot Issues

If Safe Mode isn’t accessible, use Command Prompt from the Advanced options menu to repair boot files. Here’s how:

  1. Access Advanced options via Automatic Repair or Windows installation media.
  2. Choose Command Prompt.
  3. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd

These commands fix the Master Boot Record (MBR) and rebuild the Boot Configuration Data (BCD), which are critical for starting Windows. This often resolves boot-related errors that affect recovery screens.

Step 5: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can cause recovery tools to fail. Running SFC and DISM commands can repair these files:

  1. From Command Prompt, enter:
sfc /scannow

This scans and repairs damaged system files automatically. It may take some time, so be patient.

  1. Next, run:
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

DISM checks the Windows image for corruption and repairs it if needed. Both tools are important to restore system stability.

Step 6: Reset Your PC

If previous steps don’t work, consider resetting Windows 11. This reinstalls the OS and can fix deep system issues.

  1. Boot into Advanced options.
  2. Select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
  3. Choose either Keep my files or Remove everything based on your preference.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

Resetting keeps your system fresh but be aware that choosing to remove everything deletes all personal data, so back up if possible.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If the recovery screen still does not work, you can try:

  • Using Windows 11 Installation Media: Boot from a USB drive with Windows 11 setup and select “Repair your computer” to access recovery tools externally.
  • Updating BIOS/UEFI Firmware: An outdated BIOS might cause boot issues. Visit your PC manufacturer’s website for update instructions.
  • Checking Hard Drive Health: Faulty drives can cause boot failures. Use tools like CHKDSK or third-party utilities to scan your drive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my Windows 11 recovery screen not responding?

It can be due to corrupted system files, hardware conflicts, or issues with boot configuration data preventing the recovery environment from loading properly.

Can I create a recovery drive to fix this issue?

Yes. Creating a Windows 11 recovery USB on another working PC allows you to access repair tools even if your recovery screen is broken.

Will resetting my PC delete my files?

Only if you choose the “Remove everything” option. Selecting “Keep my files” will reinstall Windows but preserve your personal data.

How do I access Safe Mode if the recovery screen doesn’t work?

Try forcing Automatic Repair by interrupting the boot process several times. From there, you can reach Safe Mode through Advanced options.

Is it safe to run bootrec commands?

Yes, these commands repair boot files without affecting your personal data. However, use them carefully and exactly as shown.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it might indicate severe system corruption or hardware failure. In such cases, consider the following:

  • Contact Microsoft Support for professional assistance: https://support.microsoft.com/windows
  • Visit a certified technician to diagnose possible hardware problems.
  • Consider reinstalling Windows 11 from scratch using installation media after backing up your data.

Conclusion

Fixing a non-working Windows 11 Error Recovery screen can seem challenging, but following these steps methodically will help you restore access to vital troubleshooting tools. Start with simple restarts and hard reboots, then move on to repairing boot files and system files. If needed, reset your PC or use external recovery media for deeper fixes.

Remember to back up your data regularly and keep your system updated to avoid such issues in the future. With patience and the right approach, you can overcome this problem and get your Windows 11 PC back to normal operation.

Leave a Reply