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How to Fix Last Known Good Configuration Not Working in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Sometimes, when Windows 11 fails to start properly, users rely on the “Last Known Good Configuration” option to restore a working system state. However, this feature may not always work as expected, leaving you stuck with startup problems.

This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to fix the “Last Known Good Configuration” not working issue in Windows 11. Each step is explained in detail to help even beginners follow along easily.

By following these instructions, you can troubleshoot your system without needing advanced technical knowledge. Let’s get started with the easiest methods first and move toward more advanced options if needed.

Remember, patience and careful attention to each step are key to resolving startup problems effectively.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Make sure your PC is fully powered off before performing any startup procedures.
  • Have a Windows 11 installation media (USB or DVD) handy. This may be needed for some advanced fixes.
  • Ensure you have backed up important files if possible, as some troubleshooting steps can risk data loss.
  • Check if your hardware connections (like cables and peripherals) are secure to rule out physical issues.

Step 1: Try Safe Mode to Fix Startup Issues

Safe Mode starts Windows with only the essential drivers and services. This mode can help bypass problems caused by recently installed software or drivers.

  1. Power off your PC completely.
  2. Press the power button to turn it on and as soon as you see the Windows logo or manufacturer logo, press and hold the power button again to force shutdown.
  3. Repeat this power on and forced shutdown process two to three times until you see the “Preparing Automatic Repair” screen.
  4. Let the system run the diagnostics. When the “Automatic Repair” screen appears, select Advanced options.
  5. Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings and click Restart.
  6. After your PC restarts, you will see a list of options. Press 4 or F4 to enter Safe Mode.

Once in Safe Mode, you can uninstall recently added software or update faulty drivers that might be causing startup errors.

Step 2: Use System Restore to Roll Back to a Working State

If Safe Mode works, but you can’t fix the problem manually, try System Restore. This tool takes your PC back to a previous working state without deleting your personal files.

  1. In Safe Mode, press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type rstrui.exe and press Enter. This opens the System Restore wizard.
  3. Click Next and choose a restore point dated before the issue started.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restore process.
  5. After the restore finishes, your PC will restart and hopefully boot normally.

System Restore is important because it can fix system files and settings without affecting your personal documents.

Step 3: Repair Windows Using Startup Repair Tool

If System Restore isn’t available or doesn’t work, try the Startup Repair tool. It automatically scans and fixes problems preventing Windows from starting.

  1. Insert the Windows 11 installation USB or DVD and boot from it. You may need to change the boot order in BIOS/UEFI.
  2. When the Windows Setup screen appears, click Next, then select Repair your computer at the bottom left.
  3. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
  4. Select your Windows installation and let the tool diagnose and fix startup issues.
  5. Once done, restart your PC to check if the problem is resolved.

This method is useful because it targets boot files and system components that may be corrupted or missing.

Step 4: Run System File Checker and DISM Commands

Corrupted system files can cause the “Last Known Good Configuration” option to fail. Running built-in tools like System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) can repair them.

  1. Boot into Safe Mode or use the Windows installation media to open Command Prompt from Advanced options.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This will scan and repair corrupted system files. Wait for the process to complete; it may take some time.

  1. If issues persist, run these DISM commands one by one:
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands check and fix deeper Windows image problems.

Step 5: Update or Roll Back Drivers

Faulty or incompatible drivers often cause boot failures. Updating or rolling back drivers might resolve the issue.

  1. Boot into Safe Mode.
  2. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  3. Look for any device with a yellow warning icon, indicating a driver problem.
  4. Right-click the device and choose Update driver. Follow the prompts to install updates.
  5. If a recent driver update caused the issue, select Properties, go to the Driver tab, and click Roll Back Driver.

Alternative Method: Reset Your PC

If none of the above methods work, you can reset Windows 11. This reinstalls Windows but gives you the option to keep your files.

  1. Boot into Advanced Startup options using the installation media or by interrupting the startup process three times.
  2. Go to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
  3. Choose Keep my files to preserve your personal data or Remove everything for a full reset.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

Resetting can fix deep system problems but should be used as a last resort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is “Last Known Good Configuration” missing in Windows 11?

Microsoft removed this option starting with Windows Vista. Instead, Windows 11 uses other recovery tools like Safe Mode and Startup Repair.

Can I recover data if my PC doesn’t boot?

Yes, by using bootable recovery tools or connecting the hard drive to another computer, you can access and back up your data.

Is Safe Mode always accessible?

Safe Mode can usually be accessed through Advanced Startup options, but if your system is severely corrupted, you might need installation media.

Do I need technical skills to perform these fixes?

Most steps are straightforward and explained to help beginners. However, be cautious and follow instructions carefully.

What should I do if none of the fixes work?

Consider seeking professional help or contacting Microsoft Support for advanced troubleshooting.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above methods and still cannot fix the startup issues, it might be time to consider professional repair services or reinstall Windows completely.

Visit the official Microsoft support page for more detailed assistance: Microsoft Windows Support.

You can also create a bootable USB drive with the Windows Media Creation Tool to perform a clean installation if necessary.

Conclusion

Dealing with startup problems when “Last Known Good Configuration” doesn’t work can be frustrating, but there are several effective troubleshooting steps you can take. Starting with Safe Mode and System Restore, then moving to Startup Repair and system scans, covers most common issues.

Remember to update or roll back drivers as they are often the root cause. If all else fails, resetting Windows or reinstalling it can restore your PC to working order.

By following this guide carefully, you improve your chances of resolving Windows 11 startup problems without losing important data or needing expert help.

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