Are you frustrated with your Windows 10 computer getting stuck on the loading screen? You’re not alone. It’s a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, from software conflicts to hardware issues. In this article, we’ll explore the top reasons why Windows 10 might be stuck on the loading screen and provide you with troubleshooting steps to get your computer up and running again.
Corrupt System Files
One of the most common reasons why Windows 10 gets stuck on the loading screen is due to corrupt system files. These files are essential for the operating system to function properly, and when they become damaged, Windows can’t boot correctly. There are several ways that system files can become corrupt, including:
- Virus or malware infections
- Software conflicts
- Power outages or sudden shutdowns
- Improper installation of drivers or software
To fix corrupt system files, try the following:
- Run the System File Checker (SFC) tool: This tool scans and replaces corrupt system files with healthy ones. To run the SFC tool, follow these steps:
- Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type the command
sfc /scannowand press Enter.
- Run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool: This tool can also help fix corrupt system files. To run the DISM tool, follow these steps:
- Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type the command
dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealthand press Enter.
Driver Issues
Another common cause of Windows 10 getting stuck on the loading screen is due to driver issues. Drivers are software components that allow hardware devices to communicate with the operating system. When drivers become outdated, corrupted, or conflicting, they can cause Windows to freeze or get stuck on the loading screen.
To fix driver issues, try the following:
- Update drivers: Make sure that all your drivers are up-to-date. You can do this by going to the Device Manager, expanding each category, and checking for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark or a red X. Right-click on each device and select “Update driver” to search for and install the latest drivers.
- Roll back drivers: If you recently installed a new driver and Windows started getting stuck on the loading screen, try rolling back to the previous version of the driver. To do this, go to the Device Manager, expand the category related to the driver, right-click on the device, and select “Properties.” In the Properties window, click on the “Driver” tab and click “Roll Back Driver” to revert to the previous version.
BIOS Issues
The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is the firmware that controls the boot process of your computer. When the BIOS becomes outdated or corrupted, it can cause Windows 10 to get stuck on the loading screen.
To fix BIOS issues, try the following:
- Update the BIOS: Check with your computer manufacturer for any BIOS updates and follow their instructions to update the BIOS. Make sure to create a backup of your important files and data before updating the BIOS.
- Reset the BIOS: If updating the BIOS doesn’t work, try resetting the BIOS to its default settings. This will vary depending on your computer manufacturer, so refer to your user manual or online documentation for instructions.
Hardware Issues
Hardware issues can also cause Windows 10 to get stuck on the loading screen. These issues can include:
- Faulty RAM: Faulty or incompatible RAM can cause Windows to freeze or get stuck on the loading screen. Try removing one or more sticks of RAM and see if Windows boots correctly.
- Hard drive issues: A failing or corrupted hard drive can also cause Windows to get stuck on the loading screen. Try running the Check Disk (chkdsk) utility to fix any file system errors.
- Overheating: An overheating computer can also cause Windows to freeze or get stuck on the loading screen. Make sure that your computer’s cooling system is working properly, and ensure that your computer is in a well-ventilated area.
Software Conflicts
Software conflicts can also cause Windows 10 to get stuck on the loading screen. These conflicts can occur when two or more software applications are trying to access the same system resource or when a software application is not compatible with Windows 10.
To fix software conflicts, try the following:
- Boot in Safe Mode: Booting in Safe Mode can help you isolate the software conflict. To boot in Safe Mode, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
- Click on “Update & Security.”
- Click on “Recovery” from the left menu.
- Click on “Advanced startup options.”
- Click on “Restart now.”
- Your computer will restart and boot into Safe Mode.
- Perform a Clean Boot: A Clean Boot will start Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This can help you identify the software conflict. To perform a Clean Boot, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “msconfig” and press Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, click on the “Services” tab.
- Check the box next to “Hide all Microsoft services.”
- Click “Disable all.”
- Click “Apply” and then “OK.”
Virus And Malware Infections
Virus and malware infections can also cause Windows 10 to get stuck on the loading screen. These infections can damage system files, registry entries, and other critical system components.
To fix virus and malware infections, try the following:
- Run a virus scan: Run a full virus scan using an anti-virus software to detect and remove any malware infections.
- Use a malware removal tool: Use a malware removal tool such as Malwarebytes to detect and remove any malware infections that your anti-virus software may have missed.
System Restore
If all else fails, you can try using System Restore to revert Windows 10 to a previous point when it was working correctly. System Restore creates restore points at regular intervals, which include system files, registry entries, and other critical system components.
To use System Restore, follow these steps:
- Boot into Safe Mode: Boot into Safe Mode as described earlier.
- Open System Restore: Open the System Restore window by typing “system restore” in the Windows search bar and clicking on “Create a restore point.”
- Select a restore point: Select a restore point from the list of available restore points. Make sure to choose a restore point that was created before the problem started occurring.
- Click “Next” and then “Finish”**: Click “Next” and then “Finish” to start the System Restore process.
Conclusion
Getting stuck on the Windows 10 loading screen can be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you should be able to identify and fix the underlying cause of the problem. Remember to be patient and methodical in your approach, and don’t hesitate to seek further assistance if you need it. With a little persistence and troubleshooting know-how, you should be able to get your Windows 10 computer up and running again in no time.
What Are The Common Causes Of Windows 10 Getting Stuck At The Loading Screen?
One of the most common causes is a corrupted system file or driver. This can happen due to a faulty installation, a virus or malware attack, or even a sudden power outage. Another common cause is a malfunctioning or outdated driver, which can prevent Windows from loading correctly. Additionally, issues with the boot loader, such as a corrupted Boot Configuration Data (BCD), can also cause Windows to get stuck at the loading screen.
In some cases, hardware issues like a failing hard drive, overclocking, or overheating can also prevent Windows from booting past the loading screen. Furthermore, incompatible or malfunctioning firmware can cause Windows to get stuck. It’s also possible that Windows 10 is trying to boot in a mode that is not compatible with the system’s hardware configuration, leading to the stuck screen.
How Do I Troubleshoot The Issue Of Windows 10 Getting Stuck At The Loading Screen?
To troubleshoot the issue, start by restarting your computer in Safe Mode. If Windows boots successfully in Safe Mode, it indicates that the problem is likely with a driver or software. You can then try uninstalling any recently installed drivers or software to see if that resolves the issue. You can also try running a System File Checker (SFC) scan to check for corrupted system files and replace them with healthy ones.
If Safe Mode doesn’t work, try booting from a Windows 10 installation media and running a Startup Repair. This can help fix issues with the boot loader and other system files. If the issue persists, you may need to perform a System Restore or reinstall Windows 10 altogether.
Will Reinstalling Windows 10 Fix The Issue Of Getting Stuck At The Loading Screen?
Reinstalling Windows 10 can be a last resort to fix the issue of getting stuck at the loading screen. However, it’s essential to backup all important files and data before doing so, as reinstalling Windows will erase all data on the system drive. Reinstalling Windows can help remove any corrupted system files, drivers, or malware that may be causing the issue.
However, reinstalling Windows 10 may not always fix the issue, especially if the problem is related to hardware or firmware issues. In such cases, it’s essential to identify and address the underlying cause before reinstalling Windows.
Can I Fix The Issue Without Losing My Data?
Yes, it’s possible to fix the issue without losing your data. You can try running a System File Checker (SFC) scan or a DISM scan from the Windows Recovery Environment to fix corrupted system files. You can also try running a Command Prompt from the Windows Recovery Environment to fix issues with the boot loader or system configuration.
Additionally, you can try booting from a Windows 10 installation media and using the built-in troubleshooting tools to fix issues with the system. If all else fails, you can try performing a System Restore or using a third-party data recovery tool to recover your important files and data.
What Are Some Common Error Messages Associated With Windows 10 Getting Stuck At The Loading Screen?
Some common error messages associated with Windows 10 getting stuck at the loading screen include ” Automatic Repair couldn’t repair your PC”, “System Restore failed”, “CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED”, “KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE”, and “UNEXPECTED_KERNEL_MODE_TRAP”. These error messages can provide valuable clues to help diagnose the underlying cause of the issue.
In some cases, you may not see any error messages, and Windows may simply get stuck at the loading screen without providing any indication of what’s wrong. In such cases, you may need to rely on trial-and-error troubleshooting methods to identify and fix the issue.
Can I Prevent Windows 10 From Getting Stuck At The Loading Screen?
Yes, there are several steps you can take to prevent Windows 10 from getting stuck at the loading screen. Regularly updating your system with the latest Windows updates and drivers can help prevent issues with corrupted system files and outdated drivers. Additionally, running regular disk cleanups and disk checks can help prevent issues with disk corruption and bad sectors.
You can also take steps to prevent malware and virus attacks by installing and regularly updating antivirus software. Furthermore, setting up a System Restore point can provide a safety net in case something goes wrong, allowing you to revert to a previous working state.
Are There Any Third-party Tools That Can Help Fix The Issue Of Windows 10 Getting Stuck At The Loading Screen?
Yes, there are several third-party tools that can help fix the issue of Windows 10 getting stuck at the loading screen. For example, bootable antivirus software like Kaspersky Rescue Disk or Avast Boot Scan can help remove malware and viruses that may be preventing Windows from booting correctly.
Other tools like EasyRE or Hiren’s BootCD can provide a range of troubleshooting and repair tools to help fix issues with the boot loader, system files, and drivers. Additionally, data recovery tools like Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard can help recover important files and data in case you need to reinstall Windows 10.