Effective Solutions to the ‘Windows Did Not Start Successfully’ Error- A Comprehensive Guide

How to Fix “Windows Did Not Start Successfully”

Introduction:
When you turn on your computer and encounter the message “Windows Did Not Start Successfully,” it can be a frustrating experience. This error can occur due to various reasons, such as corrupted system files, hardware issues, or incompatible drivers. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to fix this problem and get your Windows system up and running smoothly again.

1. Safe Mode:
The first step in troubleshooting this issue is to boot your computer into Safe Mode. Safe Mode loads a minimal set of drivers and services, which can help identify the cause of the problem. To boot into Safe Mode, follow these steps:

a. Restart your computer and press F8 repeatedly before the Windows logo appears.
b. Select “Safe Mode” from the Advanced Boot Options menu.
c. If your computer starts successfully in Safe Mode, it indicates that a third-party application or driver is causing the issue.

2. System Restore:
If Safe Mode resolves the problem, you can try performing a System Restore to revert your computer back to a previous state when it was functioning correctly. Here’s how to do it:

a. Click on the Start button and type “System Restore” in the search box.
b. Select “Create a restore point” from the search results.
c. Click on “System Restore” and follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point and restore your system.

3. Check for Corrupted System Files:
Corrupted system files can cause the “Windows Did Not Start Successfully” error. To fix this, you can use the built-in Windows troubleshooter or run the System File Checker tool. Here’s how to do it:

a. Open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-clicking on Command Prompt, and selecting “Run as administrator.”
b. Type the following command and press Enter: `sfc /scannow`
c. Wait for the process to complete, and follow any instructions provided by the troubleshooter.

4. Update Drivers:
Outdated or incompatible drivers can also cause this error. To update your drivers, follow these steps:

a. Press Windows key + X and select “Device Manager.”
b. Expand the device categories and right-click on the problematic device.
c. Select “Update driver” and choose “Search automatically for updated driver software.”
d. Follow the on-screen instructions to update the driver.

5. Perform a Clean Boot:
A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, which can help identify if a third-party application is causing the issue. Here’s how to perform a clean boot:

a. Press Windows key + R, type “msconfig,” and press Enter.
b. Go to the “Services” tab and check the “Hide all Microsoft services” box.
c. Click on “Disable all” and then go to the “Startup” tab.
d. Click on “Open Task Manager” and disable all startup items.
e. Restart your computer and check if the issue persists.

Conclusion:
Encountering the “Windows Did Not Start Successfully” error can be a daunting task, but with the steps outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue. By booting into Safe Mode, performing a System Restore, checking for corrupted system files, updating drivers, and performing a clean boot, you can get your Windows system back on track. If the problem persists, it may be advisable to seek professional assistance.