Applies To
Windows 11 Windows 10

Summary

Startup Repair is a built-in Windows recovery tool that helps fix issues preventing the operating system from starting. It runs from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) and automatically diagnoses and repairs common startup problems such as corrupted system files or boot configuration errors. Users can access it through Advanced startup options or when Windows fails to boot. It is one of several recovery tools available for troubleshooting boot-related issues.

Startup Repair is a Windows recovery tool that can fix certain system problems that might prevent Windows from starting. It scans your computer for the problem and then tries to fix it so your computer can start correctly. This tool is particularly useful when your computer is experiencing issues such as missing or damaged system files, corrupted boot configuration data, or other startup-related problems.​​​​​​​

Access Startup Repair

Follow these steps to access Startup Repair:

  1. Access the Windows Recovery Environment.

  2. In WinRE, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair > Restart.

Screenshot of the Choose an option screen in Windows RE.

Screenshot of Windows RE - Troubleshoot screen.

Screenshot of Windows RE - Advanced options screen.

Note: If you’ve encrypted your device, you’ll need your BitLocker key to complete this task. If you don’t know your BitLocker key, see Find your BitLocker recovery key.

After the device reboots, Startup Repair scans your computer for problems and then tries to fix them. Here are some of the issues it tries to repair:

  • Missing or damaged system files

  • Corrupted boot configuration data (BCD)

  • Damaged master boot record (MBR)

  • Incompatible drivers

  • Registry errors

If Startup Repair detects any of these issues, it will attempt to fix them automatically. If it can't fix the problem, it will provide a detailed report of the issues it found.

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