This article shows you how to diagnose and resolve a problem with a Windows computer failing to boot. Although usually the cause of this problem is related to a hardware component that is not working properly, in some cases it could be related to the software installed on the computer.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Hardware Troubleshooting
Step 1. Please understand that some hardware problems cannot be solved immediately
If your computer won't even turn on, it's usually best to go to a repair service rather than trying to fix the problem yourself.
However, most hardware-related problems are caused by loose connections or malfunctioning peripherals. Normally the system hard drive is never the cause of the problem, which means that the files inside it should still be intact
Step 2. Back up the contents of your computer's hard drive
The first operation to be performed, before performing any repairs, should always be the backup of personal data on the system disk. To perform this step, you need to uninstall the drive from your computer, install it on a second system using a SATA to USB adapter (or IDE to USB for older storage drives), and back up the disk.
Step 3. Check the power cord
It might seem like a simplistic solution, but before embarking on lengthy and difficult diagnostic and repair procedures, it is good to discard the most obvious causes. Check carefully that the power cord is securely connected to both the computer and the power outlet and that it is working.
- If you normally use a stabilized power strip with surge protection (or a regular power strip), try plugging the computer directly into the electrical outlet to verify that the safety device is not the cause of the problem.
- If you are using a laptop, make sure the charger is properly connected to both the computer and the mains.
Step 4. Try using a different monitor
If the computer starts up but no image appears on the screen, the monitor may be the cause of the problem. Check that the connecting cables are properly seated in their slots, then try using another monitor if you can.
Step 5. Remove the laptop battery and plug it into a power outlet
If your computer is connected to the mains via the appropriate charger, you can use it even without the battery installed. If after removing the battery the laptop starts up normally, it means that the battery is the cause of the problem. In this case, contact your computer manufacturer to purchase a new battery (or to have it replaced, if it is still under warranty).
Step 6. If you are using a desktop system, open the case
In order to check the internal connections of the computer and verify the correct functioning of the power supply, it is necessary to first open the case.
- Remember to wear an antistatic bracelet or to touch a metal part of the case before touching any internal component of the system.
- While it is possible to check for internal hardware problems even on a laptop computer, in most cases the repair will not be able to be done by normal users. In this scenario, the best solution is always to go to a professional repair service.
Step 7. Check the cables connecting the computer's internal power supply
Make sure that the power cables that connect the computer's internal power supply (it's a metal box where all the power cables inside the case come out) to the motherboard are connected correctly and firmly.
Step 8. Verify that your computer's power supply is working properly
Older internal power supplies tend to have malfunctions, however the procedure to follow to test them is relatively simple and intuitive. In most cases, power supplies are the cause of a computer not starting up.
Step 9. If necessary, replace the computer's power supply
If after testing it you have found that the internal power supply is not working properly, replace it.
Step 10. Check for any loose mounting screws inside the computer
A screw or small metal element could cause a short circuit on the motherboard. Gently move the case back and forth for metallic sounds. Once you've located the screw, use your fingers or pliers to remove it from the case.
Step 11. Check the internal connection cables
Look for any cables that appear damaged on the outside. Cables that lack the outer protective jacket may cause a short circuit. Replace any cables that are damaged or that look too bad.
Step 12. Replace all internal computer components
Try to remove and reinstall all hardware devices inside the case, such as the graphics card, RAM memory banks and all connection cables (both data and power cables). Any component that is not firmly seated in its slot could cause the startup procedure to fail.
You can try removing and reinstalling the microprocessor as well, but this is usually quite a difficult procedure and it is very rare for this component to be the cause of the problem. Furthermore, since it is a very delicate element, the chances of damaging it during removal or subsequent installation are very high. If this happens, the computer will be completely unusable
Step 13. Try removing the video card
If your computer has an add-in graphics card, try removing it, then connect the monitor directly to the integrated video card on the motherboard. If the video device is not working properly, it may prevent the computer from starting normally.
If necessary, install a new graphics card
Step 14. Uninstall all non-essential hardware components
Try starting your computer with only basic hardware devices connected. This means that you will need to remove all add-in video cards, all memory and optical drives other than the system hard drive, all PCI peripherals, and all RAM modules other than the minimum required by the operating system. After removing all unnecessary hardware components, try starting your computer.
If at this point the computer starts normally, shut it down and install one component at a time, verifying at each step that the system boots successfully. This way you will be able to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem
Step 15. Seek help
If the computer does not turn on even with the essential hardware configuration, it means that one of the internal components needs to be replaced. In this case, it is best to go to a professional repair service or consider buying a new computer.
Method 2 of 2: Software Troubleshooting
Step 1. Try starting your computer
Press the relevant button Power ignition characterized by the following symbol
If your computer does not turn on, follow the instructions in this section of the article
Step 2. Hold down the ⇧ Shift key as soon as the computer turns on
This will redirect you to the menu containing the advanced boot options.
This is a blue screen listing several white icons and their description. If the menu in question does not appear, try restarting your computer while holding down the ⇧ Shift key
Step 3. Choose the Troubleshoot option
It is one of the items on the "Choose an option" screen.
Step 4. Select the Advanced Options item
It is located at the top of the screen.
Step 5. Choose the Startup Repair option
It is listed on the left side of the screen.
Step 6. Select your user account name
It is visible in the center of the screen.
Step 7. Enter your Windows login password
This is the same password you use to log into the system after turning on the computer. After providing the requested information, press the button Continues.
If you haven't set a login password, simply press the button Continues.
Step 8. Wait for Windows to examine the computer for the cause of the problem
This step takes several minutes to complete.
Step 9. Follow the instructions that will appear on the screen
Based on the problem found, you will need to perform the related repair procedure. In most cases the problem will be fixed automatically.
Step 10. Repair your operating system
If the "Startup Repair" option did not solve the problem, you may need to reinstall the operating system. Make sure you have backed up all personal files on your computer, then follow these instructions:
- Access the "Choose an option" screen again by restarting your computer while holding the ⇧ Shift key;
- Choose the option Troubleshooting.
- Select the item System recovery.
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Choose the option Keep my files.
If using this recovery mode does not solve the problem, repeat the procedure using the option Remove everything.
- Confirm your willingness to perform the reset, then follow the instructions that will appear on the screen.
Step 11. Reinstall Windows using installation media
If none of the recovery options have solved the problem, the only solution is to re-install the operating system using CD / DVD or USB drive. In this case the hard drive will be fully formatted, so all the data it contains will be lost. It is for this reason that this solution should only be adopted in extreme cases, as a last resort:
- Windows 10
- Windows 8
- Windows 7
Advice
- Unless you have experience as an electrician, repairing an electrical short inside your computer should always be delegated to a trained professional.
- Problems related to the startup phase of a computer can be caused by many factors, ranging from a build-up of dust to damage to system files. For this reason, the most critical phase in these cases is to be able to identify the cause of the problem and then be able to apply the most correct solution.
Warnings
- Wear an anti-static wrist strap or ground your body by touching a metal part of the computer case while it is still connected to the mains.
- Before touching any internal component of the computer, always remember to turn it off completely and disconnect it from the mains.
