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Fix: Windows Failed to Start After Hardware or Software Change

Missing BCD file may cause this problem and requires rebuilding

5 min. read

Updated onAugust 9, 2024

updated onAugust 9, 2024

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Key notes

Some of our readers who recently complained about the Windows failed to start a recent hardware or software change might be the cause error need to know that this error is inevitable if there is anyhardware or software change to your computer.

This error affects the regular boot process of your computer and, at times, causes data loss. This article will teach you how to fix the error.

Why do I encounter Windows failed to start after hardware or software change?

Why do I encounter Windows failed to start after hardware or software change?

One of the major reasons could be that you have installed hardware or software which has triggered the error. Below are some other factors reported by some users:

Now that you know some of the potential reasons behind this issue, you can work your way through any of the fixes provided in this article.

What can I do if Windows failed to start due to hardware or software change?

What can I do if Windows failed to start due to hardware or software change?

It may be worth a simple fix for you if you consider performing the following preliminary checks:

Having confirmed the above checks and the problem persists, you can explore the advanced solutions provided below.

1. Run the Automatic/Startup Repairs

As soon as the process is complete, restart your PC for the fix to take effect. Now, check if the problem is fixed. If it persists, try the next fix.

2. Rebuild BCD Configuration

Rebuilding BCD has been reported by several users to have proved a potential fix for the Windows failed to start a recent hardware or software change might be the cause error.

3. Run SFC and CHKDSK Scans

You can tryrunning the SFC and CHKDSK scans, as they will search for bad sectors and perform recovery on them.

Alternatively, you can clearly repair this kind of error on Windows with adedicated optimizing toolthat will scan and fix corrupted files that result inWindows failed to starterrors.

4. Perform a System Restore

Another helpful way to fix computer problems is by using the built-inSystem Restore feature in Windows.

You should be able to fix the issue after working your way through the provided fixes in this article.

Similar to this error is theUNetbootin Windows Failed to StartandWindows didn’t load correctly. You can check how to fix them using our detailed guides.

If you have any questions or suggestions, do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

More about the topics:windows error

Vladimir Popescu

Being an artist his entire life while also playing handball at a professional level, Vladimir has also developed a passion for all things computer-related.

With an innate fascination for research and analysis, and realizing many other people share his passion for this subject, he delved into writing Windows-related articles, so other people can also benefit from the acquired information.

When not writing kick-ass articles, Vladimir likes to spend his time doing Crossfit and creating art.

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