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How to Fix the “Critical Service Failed” Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Encountering the “Critical Service Failed” error on Windows 11 can be frustrating. This error often stops your computer from booting properly. However, there are several straightforward steps you can take to fix it.

In this guide, we will walk you through simple solutions to resolve this error. Each step is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along.

By the end of this article, you should be able to get your Windows 11 system running smoothly again. Let’s get started with some quick checks.

Remember, patience and careful following of instructions are key to successfully fixing this issue.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

Before diving into fixes, make sure to check the following:

  • Backup Important Data: If possible, back up your files to an external drive or cloud storage. Some fixes might require system repairs that could risk data loss.
  • Have Windows Installation Media Ready: A USB or DVD with Windows 11 installation can help if you need to access recovery tools.
  • Know Your Microsoft Account Credentials: Some recovery or reset steps might ask for sign-in details.
  • Check for Recent Changes: Think about any recent software or hardware changes that might have triggered the error.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart fixes temporary glitches causing the error. Press and hold the power button until the device turns off. Wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.

If the error persists, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with only essential drivers and services. This can help isolate the problem.

  1. Turn off your PC by holding the power button.
  2. Turn it on and as Windows starts loading, press and hold the power button again to force shutdown.
  3. Repeat this 2-3 times until you see the “Preparing Automatic Repair” screen.
  4. Let Windows diagnose. When the “Automatic Repair” screen appears, select Advanced options.
  5. Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  6. Click Restart. When the system restarts, press 4 or F4 to enter Safe Mode.

Once in Safe Mode, check if the error appears. If not, it suggests the problem is caused by software or drivers loading during a normal start.

Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Windows has built-in tools to repair corrupted system files which might be causing the error.

  1. In Safe Mode, press Windows + S and type cmd.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This command scans and repairs corrupted system files. It may take some time; do not close the window until it finishes.

If issues persist after SFC completes, run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands check and repair Windows image health, which helps fix deeper system problems.

Step 4: Check and Repair Disk Errors

Disk errors can also cause critical service failures. To check your disk:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (see previous step).
  2. Type this command and press Enter:
chkdsk /f /r

This will scan for bad sectors and fix file system errors. You’ll be asked to schedule the scan on the next restart — type Y and press Enter.

Restart your PC to let chkdsk run. This process can take some time depending on your disk size and issues found.

Step 5: Use System Restore

If the error started recently, you can roll back your system to a previous point where Windows was working fine.

  1. Boot into the Advanced Startup Options (see step 2 for how to get there).
  2. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
  3. Select a restore point dated before the error appeared.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system.

System Restore doesn’t affect your personal files but will remove recent apps and drivers installed after the restore point.

Step 6: Reset Windows 11

If none of the previous steps work, resetting Windows 11 can fix deeper system problems by reinstalling the OS.

  1. Access Advanced Startup Options.
  2. Select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
  3. Choose whether to Keep my files or Remove everything. Keeping files preserves your personal data but removes apps and settings.
  4. Follow the prompts to complete the reset.

This process can take some time, so ensure your PC is plugged into power.

Alternative Method: Repair Using Installation Media

If you have a Windows 11 installation USB or DVD, you can perform a repair install:

  1. Insert the installation media and boot your PC from it.
  2. Select your language preferences and click Next.
  3. Click Repair your computer at the bottom left.
  4. Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options and try Startup Repair or access Command Prompt to run SFC and DISM commands.

This method is helpful if your system cannot access Safe Mode or Advanced Startup options normally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the “Critical Service Failed” error?

This error usually occurs due to corrupted system files, problematic drivers, failed Windows updates, or disk errors.

Can I fix this error without losing my files?

Yes, many solutions like Safe Mode troubleshooting, SFC scans, or System Restore do not delete your personal data.

Is Safe Mode difficult to access?

It may seem tricky at first, but repeated forced shutdowns or using a recovery drive can help you enter Safe Mode.

What if my PC won’t boot at all?

Using Windows installation media or recovery drives is the best option to access troubleshooting tools.

How long does it take to fix this error?

It depends on the step you’re performing. Scans like SFC and chkdsk can take from several minutes to over an hour.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the “Critical Service Failed” error, consider these final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for personalized assistance.
  • Professional Repair Service: If hardware issues are suspected, a certified technician can diagnose and fix physical problems.
  • Clean Installation: As a last resort, you can perform a clean install of Windows 11. This will erase all data, so ensure backups are complete.

Always keep your system and drivers up to date to prevent future errors.

Conclusion

The “Critical Service Failed” error on Windows 11 is a common but fixable issue. Starting with simple restarts and Safe Mode diagnostics can often resolve the problem without complicated steps.

Running system repair tools and checking your disk help address corrupted files and hardware errors. System Restore and Reset are powerful options when simpler methods fail.

Remember to back up your data regularly and keep your system updated to avoid such errors. With patience and the right approach, you can get your Windows 11 PC back to normal quickly and safely.

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