Windows 10 startup issues are common and can be frustrating for beginner users. The good news is that most problems have straightforward solutions. This guide will walk you through the top 10 ways to fix Windows startup issues, using practical steps and real-world examples. You’ll also learn how tools like Glary Utilities can simplify the process of cleaning up and repairing your system.
Why Won’t My Windows 10 Start Properly?
Several things can prevent Windows from starting normally: corrupt system files, problematic drivers, leftover junk files, or failed Windows updates. Understanding and addressing these problems systematically will help you resolve most issues without professional help.
1. Can You Start Windows in Safe Mode?
Safe Mode runs Windows with only essential drivers and services. If you can boot into Safe Mode, you’re one step closer to solving the problem.
How to get into Safe Mode:
1. Restart your computer.
2. When Windows starts loading, hold down the Shift key and repeatedly tap the F8 key.
3. At the recovery screen, choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart.
4. On the Startup Settings screen, press 4 or F4 to start in Safe Mode.
If Windows starts in Safe Mode, the issue is likely caused by a program, driver, or service that runs during a normal startup.
2. Have You Tried Startup Repair?
Windows 10 provides a built-in Startup Repair tool to automatically fix common startup issues.
How to use Startup Repair:
1. On the Windows login screen, hold down Shift, click the Power button, then choose Restart.
2. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Repair.
3. Follow the prompts and let Windows attempt to fix the problem.
3. Are There Unnecessary Startup Programs?
Too many programs launching at startup can slow or prevent Windows from starting. Removing unnecessary startup items can boost performance and solve boot issues.
Easy steps with Glary Utilities:
1. Open Glary Utilities and go to the “Startup Manager” under the Optimize & Improve section.
2. Look for programs you don’t use frequently and disable them from starting with Windows.
3. Restart your PC and check if startup improves.
Example: Disabling software updaters or cloud sync apps you rarely use can make a big difference.
4. Did You Run a System File Check?
Corrupted or missing system files often block Windows from starting.
How to run System File Checker:
1. In Safe Mode, open Command Prompt as Administrator (search for “cmd”, right-click, and select Run as administrator).
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the process to complete. If any issues are found, Windows will attempt to repair them.
5. Is Your Hard Drive Healthy?
Hard drive errors can prevent Windows from starting or running smoothly.
Quick test with Windows tool:
1. In Safe Mode, open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
3. Let the tool scan and repair your drive. It may take some time.
Glary Utilities can also help here:
1. Open Glary Utilities.
2. Go to “Disk Repair” under Advanced Tools and follow the instructions to scan and fix drive errors.
6. Have You Tried System Restore?
If the startup problem began recently, System Restore can return your PC to an earlier state when it worked correctly.
How to use System Restore:
1. Access Advanced Startup (hold Shift while clicking Restart).
2. Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > System Restore.
3. Choose a restore point before the issue started and follow the prompts.
7. Are Windows Updates Causing Issues?
Sometimes, a recent Windows update can cause startup problems.
How to uninstall problematic updates:
1. Boot into Safe Mode.
2. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history > Uninstall updates.
3. Remove the most recent updates and restart your computer.
8. Did You Clean Out Junk Files?
Junk files and broken registry entries can interfere with Windows startup.
How to clean safely:
Using Glary Utilities:
1. Open Glary Utilities and click on “1-Click Maintenance.”
2. Check the boxes for Temporary Files Cleaner and Registry Cleaner.
3. Run the scan and follow the prompts to clean up.
4. Restart your computer.
Real-world benefit: Removing temporary files can free up space and clear out problematic leftovers from failed updates or crashes.
9. Have You Checked for Malware?
Malware can prevent Windows from starting properly.
How to check for malware:
1. In Safe Mode with Networking, download and install a reputable antivirus program.
2. Run a full system scan and follow the removal instructions if anything is found.
Glary Utilities also includes a Malware Remover tool to help you scan and clean your system from threats.
10. Is Reinstalling Windows Necessary?
If all else fails, a clean installation of Windows 10 may be your best option. Before proceeding, back up your files using a USB drive or cloud storage.
How to do a clean install:
1. Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website on another computer.
2. Create a bootable USB drive.
3. Boot from the USB and follow the prompts to install Windows.
Final Tips: How Can You Prevent Future Startup Issues?
– Use Glary Utilities regularly to maintain your system, clean up junk, and fix registry errors.
– Keep your drivers and Windows updated.
– Install only trusted programs and avoid unnecessary software.
– Always have a backup of important files.
By following these 10 expert tips and using comprehensive tools like Glary Utilities, you can troubleshoot and prevent most Windows 10 startup issues—even as a beginner. Regular maintenance and safe computing habits are the best ways to keep your Windows PC running smoothly.