Fixing a Loop in Automatic Repair on Windows 8.1
Welcome to our comprehensive guide for resolving the frustrating issue of a computer stuck in an automatic repair loop on Windows 8.1. This can be a hassle, but with the right steps, you can troubleshoot and possibly fix the problem. Follow these detailed instructions to help your system get back to normal operation.
Common Indicators and Causes
When your PC is stuck in an automatic repair loop and turns off when trying to restart, it may suggest that your system is experiencing deeper issues, such as corrupted files, a failed system update, or a hardware problem. This guide will walk you through a series of steps to diagnose and potentially resolve these issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
1. Force Shutdown and Access Advanced Startup Options
Force Shutdown: Press and hold the power button for 10-15 seconds until the system turns off.
Access Advanced Startup Options:
Turn on your PC and as soon as the Windows logo appears, hold the power button to force another 2-3 times. After the third forced shutdown, Windows should trigger the Advanced Startup Options menu.2. Attempt Startup Repair
From the Advanced Startup Options menu, select Troubleshoot Advanced options Startup Repair.
This tool will attempt to fix any problems that might be preventing Windows from starting correctly.
3. Use System Restore if Available
If Startup Repair doesn't work, you can attempt a System Restore:
From the Advanced Options menu, select System Restore Choose a restore point that was created before the issue started, and make sure you have one available. Follow the prompts to restore your system to an earlier state.4. Run Command Prompt for Advanced Repair
If System Restore doesn't work, try running some commands via the Command Prompt:
From the Advanced Startup Options menu, choose Command Prompt. Type the following commands and press Enter after each one: sfc /scannow: This scans and attempts to repair system file corruption. chkdsk /f /r: This checks for disk errors and attempts to fix them. bootrec /fixmbr and bootrec /fixboot: These commands repair the master boot record and boot sector.After each command completes, restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.
5. Check for Hardware Issues
If the system continues to turn off, there may be an underlying hardware issue such as overheating or failing hardware:
Ensure your computer isn't overheating: Check fans and clean dust buildup. Run memory and hard drive diagnostics: Many manufacturers offer tools that run tests on RAM and the hard drive.6. Reset the PC if Other Methods Fail
As a last resort, try resetting Windows:
From the Advanced Startup Options menu, select Troubleshoot Reset this PC. Choose whether you want to keep your files (less destructive) or remove everything (more destructive but may resolve deeper issues).This will reinstall Windows and could fix issues that are preventing the system from booting.
7. Reinstall Windows if All Else Fails
As a final step, if none of the previous steps work, you may need to completely reinstall Windows. This can be done using a bootable USB drive:
Create a bootable USB drive with Windows installation media (you can do this on another computer). Boot from the USB drive and follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows.If you don't have a backup, you might lose data if you perform a clean reinstall. Consider using a recovery tool or taking the hard drive to a professional for data recovery before proceeding with this step.
If you are not comfortable performing these tasks, consider reaching out to a professional technician to avoid causing further issues.
For more detailed information or personalized advice, you can refer to the official Microsoft documentation or visit a local IT service center.