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How to Fix Windows 10 April Update Boot Loop Error: Step-by-Step Solutions

Windows 10 April Update boot loop error can be frustrating when your computer keeps restarting without fully loading. This problem often happens after installing the update and can prevent you from using your PC normally.

Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to fix this boot loop issue. Most solutions involve simple steps that anyone can follow without advanced technical knowledge.

In this article, we will guide you through the easiest to more advanced methods to resolve the boot loop problem on your Windows 10 device. Each step includes clear explanations so you understand why it works.

By following these instructions carefully, you should be able to get your computer back to normal quickly and safely.

Quick Note Before You Start

  • Ensure your PC has enough battery or is plugged in: Interruptions during troubleshooting can cause further issues.
  • Disconnect external devices: Remove USB drives, printers, or other peripherals that might interfere with startup.
  • Have your Windows 10 login credentials ready: Some steps may require signing in or entering recovery options.
  • Backup data if possible: If you can access Safe Mode or Recovery, back up important files to avoid data loss.

Step 1: Perform a Hard Reboot

Sometimes, a simple hard reboot can resolve temporary glitches causing the boot loop.

  1. Press and hold the power button on your PC until it completely turns off.
  2. Wait about 30 seconds to ensure the system is fully powered down.
  3. Press the power button again to turn the PC back on.

This step clears any stuck processes that might be causing the boot loop. If the problem persists, proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with only essential files and drivers. This helps identify if third-party software or drivers cause the boot loop.

  1. Turn your PC on and off three times by pressing the power button when Windows starts loading. This triggers the Automatic Repair mode.
  2. Wait for the “Preparing Automatic Repair” screen to appear.
  3. Click Advanced options > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
  4. After restart, press 4 or F4 to boot into Safe Mode.

Once in Safe Mode, you can uninstall recent updates or drivers that may be causing the problem.

How to Uninstall Problematic Updates

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history.
  3. Click Uninstall updates.
  4. Find the latest update (especially the April Update) and uninstall it.
  5. Restart your PC normally to check if the boot loop is fixed.

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

Corrupted system files can cause boot problems. Running these tools repairs damaged files.

  1. Boot into Safe Mode (if not already).
  2. Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  3. Type the following command and press Enter:
    4. sfc /scannow
  4. Wait for the scan to complete. It will repair corrupted files automatically.
  5. Next, type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    6. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  6. These commands check and repair Windows image files.
  7. Restart your PC normally after the scans finish.

Step 4: Disable Automatic Restart on System Failure

This step helps you see error messages instead of automatic restarts, which can give clues about the problem.

  1. Restart your PC and press F8 or Shift + F8 repeatedly before Windows loads (this may take some attempts).
  2. In the Advanced Boot Options menu, select Disable automatic restart on system failure.
  3. Press Enter and let Windows load.

If an error message appears, note it down for further research or troubleshooting.

Step 5: Use System Restore

System Restore returns your computer to a previous working state without affecting your personal files.

  1. Boot into Automatic Repair mode (three forced shutdowns during boot).
  2. Go to Advanced options > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
  3. Select a restore point dated before the April Update installation.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system.
  5. Restart your PC and check if the boot loop is resolved.

Step 6: Reset Your PC

If none of the above solutions work, resetting Windows can fix deeper issues. This reinstall Windows but lets you choose to keep your personal files.

  1. Access Automatic Repair mode.
  2. Select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
  3. Choose Keep my files to preserve personal data.
  4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the reset.

Resetting your PC reinstalls Windows and removes problematic software or settings causing the boot loop.

Alternative Method: Use Windows Installation Media

If you can’t access recovery options, creating a Windows 10 installation USB may help.

  • Create a bootable USB using the Microsoft Media Creation Tool.
  • Boot your PC from the USB drive.
  • Select Repair your computer instead of installing.
  • Use the Troubleshoot options to perform System Restore, Startup Repair, or Reset.

This method is useful if your PC cannot reach recovery menus on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Windows 10 April Update cause boot loops?

Boot loops often happen due to incompatible drivers, corrupted update files, or system conflicts introduced by the update.

Can I fix the boot loop without losing my files?

Yes. Using Safe Mode to uninstall updates or running System Restore usually preserves your personal data.

How do I know if I’m in Safe Mode?

In Safe Mode, the screen corners usually say “Safe Mode,” and some features or graphics might look simpler.

What if I can’t access Automatic Repair or Safe Mode?

Try creating a Windows 10 installation USB to access repair tools externally.

Is resetting my PC the same as reinstalling Windows?

Resetting reinstalls Windows but lets you keep files (if you choose). It’s less drastic than a clean install, which removes everything.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the above steps and the boot loop continues, it might indicate a hardware issue or a seriously corrupted system.

  • Contact Microsoft Support or visit their official Windows Support page for detailed help.
  • Consider professional repair services to check your hardware.
  • Backup data using a bootable Linux USB or connect your hard drive to another PC if possible.

Conclusion

Windows 10 April Update boot loops can be fixed by following a series of troubleshooting steps, starting from simple hard reboots to more advanced repairs like System Restore and Reset.

Understanding why each step is important helps you choose the best solution and avoid data loss. Always start with the easiest methods and move forward if necessary.

With patience and careful attention, you can resolve the boot loop and get your computer working smoothly again.

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