Fix Windows infinite reboot loop problem: step-by-step troubleshooting guide

Fixing the Windows Infinite Reboot Loop: A Step-by-Step Guide

If your Windows computer is stuck in an infinite reboot loop, it can be frustrating and challenging to resolve. However, there are several methods you can try to fix this issue and get your system up and running smoothly again.

Method 1: Disable Automatic Restart

One of the first steps to try is disabling the automatic restart feature, which can sometimes prevent the system from entering a continuous reboot cycle.

1. Boot into Safe Mode:

   • While restarting your computer, continuously press the F8 key until the Windows logo appears on the screen.
   • Release the F8 key and select Safe Mode from the boot menu.

2. Access System Properties:

   • Once in Safe Mode, go to the Search box and type sysdm.cpl. Open the sysdm.cpl from the search results.
   • Navigate to the Advanced tab and select Settings under Start-up and Recovery.

3. Disable Automatic Restart:

• Uncheck the Automatically restart checkbox. You might also want to check Write an event to the system log if it’s not already checked.
• Click OK and restart your computer.

Method 2: Use Windows Boot Loop Automatic Repair

If disabling automatic restart does not work, you can try using the Windows Boot Loop Automatic Repair feature.

1. Trigger Automatic Repair:

   • Power off the PC and then power it on. As soon as you see the rotating loading circle, press and hold the Power button to shut it off.
   • Repeat this process a few times until you see the Preparing Automatic Repair screen.

2. Access Advanced Options:

   • After the Diagnosing your PC interface, you will see the Automatic Repair screen. Select Advanced options.
   • Choose Troubleshoot -> Advanced Options where you get multiple choices.

3. Use Command Prompt:

• Select Command Prompt and run the following commands:
  • c: (or the appropriate drive letter for your system)
  • dir
  • cd windows\system32\config
  • MD backup
  • copy *.* backup
  • CD regback
  • dir
  • copy *.* ..
  • A
  • Exit
• When you get back to Choose an option, click Continue (exit and continue to Windows 10) and see if the continuous reboot ends.

Method 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Tools

These tools can help repair corrupted system files that might be causing the reboot loop.

1. Access Command Prompt:

   • Follow the steps to access the Command Prompt from the Advanced Options menu as described above.

2. Run SFC:

   • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This command will scan and replace corrupted system files.

3. Run DISM:

• After SFC completes, run the following DISM commands:
  • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
• Reboot your PC after the DISM commands complete.

Method 4: Perform a Hard Reset

A hard reset can sometimes resolve issues related to residual power in the system.

1. Power Off and Unplug:

   • Turn off the power to your computer and unplug it from the wall.
   • Hold the power button down for about 15 seconds to discharge any residual power.

2. Reboot:

   • Plug the power cord back in and turn on your computer to see if it boots normally.

Method 5: Check and Reset BIOS Settings

If the issue is related to a BIOS update or settings, you may need to reset the BIOS.

1. Access BIOS:

   • Restart your computer and enter the BIOS settings (usually by pressing a key like F2, F12, or Del during boot).
   • Check if the BIOS settings are correct and reset them to their default values if necessary.

2. BIOS Recovery:

   • If your BIOS update was interrupted, you may need to perform a BIOS recovery. Consult your motherboard manual for specific instructions.

3. Remove CMOS Battery:

• Another option is to remove the CMOS battery from your motherboard for a few minutes to reset BIOS settings to their default values.

Method 6: Boot from a Recovery USB Drive

If you have a recovery USB drive, you can use it to repair or reinstall Windows.

1. Create a Recovery USB:

   • If you don’t have a recovery USB, create one using another Windows machine. You will need a 16 or 32GB USB stick.

2. Boot from the USB:

   • Insert the recovery USB into your computer, enter the BIOS settings, and set the USB drive as the first boot device.
   • Boot from the USB and follow the on-screen instructions to repair or reinstall Windows.

Method 7: Check Hardware Components

Sometimes, loose or faulty hardware components can cause boot issues.

1. Inspect Hardware:

   • Ensure that all hardware components (RAM, hard drive/SSD, graphics card, etc.) are properly seated.

2. Test Components:

   • If possible, test each component individually to identify any faulty hardware.

By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and fix the infinite reboot loop issue on your Windows computer.