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How to Fix Spinning Dots Forever on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Experiencing spinning dots forever on Windows 11 can be frustrating. This usually happens during startup or while trying to open an app. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to fix this issue.

This guide will walk you through easy and clear instructions to resolve the spinning dots problem. Each step is explained in detail to help even beginners understand what to do.

Take your time and follow the steps carefully. By the end, your Windows 11 should work smoothly again.

Let’s get started with some quick notes before diving into the solutions.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before starting the troubleshooting steps, make sure you have the following:

  • Patience: Some fixes may take a few minutes to complete.
  • Backup: If possible, back up your important files to avoid data loss.
  • Power: Ensure your PC is plugged in or has enough battery to avoid interruptions.
  • Internet Connection: Some fixes require downloading updates or tools.

Also, check if your mouse or keyboard is responsive. Sometimes, the system seems stuck but it’s only waiting for you to interact.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Often, the simplest solution is the best. Restarting your PC can clear temporary glitches causing the spinning dots.

  1. Press and hold the Power button on your PC until it turns off.
  2. Wait for about 10 seconds.
  3. Press the Power button again to turn it back on.

This action refreshes the system and clears temporary files or processes that might be stuck.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

If restarting doesn’t fix the problem, try booting Windows 11 into Safe Mode. This mode loads only essential system files and can help identify if a third-party app is causing the issue.

  1. Press and hold the Power button to force shutdown your PC.
  2. Turn on your PC and when the spinning dots appear, press and hold the Power button again to force shutdown. Repeat this process 2-3 times until Windows shows the Automatic Repair screen.
  3. Click on Advanced options > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
  4. After restart, press 4 or F4 to enter Safe Mode.

Once in Safe Mode, see if the spinning dots still appear. If not, the problem might be caused by recently installed apps or drivers.

Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

Corrupted system files can cause Windows to hang with spinning dots. Running an SFC scan repairs these files automatically.

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type cmd and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt as administrator.
  3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:

    sfc /scannow
  4. Wait patiently while Windows scans and repairs your system files. This may take some time.
  5. Once complete, restart your computer normally.

This scan helps fix missing or corrupted files that might be causing startup issues.

Step 4: Disable Fast Startup

Fast Startup is a Windows feature designed to speed up boot time. However, it can sometimes cause the spinning dots problem.

  1. Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter to open Control Panel.
  2. Go to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
  3. Click on Choose what the power buttons do on the left menu.
  4. Click on Change settings that are currently unavailable at the top.
  5. Uncheck the box next to Turn on fast startup (recommended).
  6. Click Save changes and restart your PC.

Disabling Fast Startup forces Windows to perform a full boot, which can resolve some boot-related issues.

Step 5: Update Windows and Drivers

Outdated system files and drivers can cause performance problems. Keeping everything updated ensures compatibility and stability.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Windows Update on the left panel.
  3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
  4. After updating Windows, update your drivers by:
    • Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
    • Expand categories like Display adapters or Network adapters.
    • Right-click each device and select Update driver.
    • Choose Search automatically for drivers.
  5. Restart your PC after updates.

Regular updates help prevent bugs and improve system performance.

Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with only the essential programs and services. This helps identify if background apps are causing the spinning dots.

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check the box for Hide all Microsoft services.
  4. Click Disable all.
  5. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  6. In Task Manager, disable all startup items by selecting each and clicking Disable.
  7. Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
  8. Restart your PC.

If the problem disappears, one of the disabled programs or services is causing the issue. You can enable them one by one to find the culprit.

Alternative Method: Use System Restore

If the spinning dots issue started recently, you can use System Restore to take your PC back to a previous working state.

  1. Press Windows + S, type Create a restore point, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Properties window, click System Restore.
  3. Follow the wizard to select a restore point dated before the issue began.
  4. Confirm and start the restore process.
  5. Your PC will restart and restore system files without affecting your personal data.

This method is useful if a recent change caused the problem.

FAQs

Why do the spinning dots appear on Windows 11?

The spinning dots usually indicate that Windows is busy loading or stuck on a process. It can be caused by system file corruption, driver issues, or software conflicts.

Can I interrupt the spinning dots and force shutdown?

Yes, you can force shutdown by holding the power button. However, frequent forced shutdowns may harm your system, so use this only when necessary.

Is Safe Mode safe to use?

Yes, Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode that loads only essential drivers and services. It is safe and often used to troubleshoot problems.

Will disabling Fast Startup affect my PC’s performance?

Disabling Fast Startup may increase boot time slightly but can improve system stability if you experience startup issues like spinning dots.

Do I need to update Windows and drivers regularly?

Yes, keeping your system and drivers updated ensures better security, compatibility, and fewer bugs.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and the spinning dots still persist, consider the following options:

  • Reset Windows 11: Use the Reset option in Settings to reinstall Windows without affecting your files. Go to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support for professional help.
  • Visit a Technician: There might be hardware issues causing the problem, so professional diagnosis can help.

Conclusion

The spinning dots issue on Windows 11 can be caused by various factors, but most problems can be fixed with simple steps like restarting, running system scans, or updating drivers.

Start with easy fixes and gradually move to advanced options only if necessary. Remember to keep your system backed up and updated to prevent future issues.

By following this detailed guide, you should be able to resolve the spinning dots problem and enjoy a smooth Windows 11 experience again.

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