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If Windows is failing, choose the recovery tool that matches the cause: use Startup Repair when it will not boot, Uninstall Updates when trouble began after an update, System Restore after a recent software or settings change, and Safe Mode to investigate. Use Reset this PC only when less disruptive repairs have failed. These tools are accessed through the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE); they are not interchangeable, and some can remove apps or data.
Choose a recovery option by symptom
| What is happening? | Start with | Why and what to watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Windows will not start, or keeps loading without reaching the sign-in screen | Startup Repair | It attempts to fix common startup problems. It cannot repair failing hardware or every kind of system corruption. |
| The problem began just after a Windows update | Uninstall Updates | Remove the latest quality update, or the latest feature update if that choice is available. Security fixes may need to be replaced or reinstalled later. |
| The problem followed a driver, app, or settings change | System Restore | Roll back system configuration to a restore point, if one exists. Apps or drivers added after that point may be removed. |
| You need to isolate a driver or startup-software problem | Startup Settings > Safe Mode | Safe Mode is a diagnostic environment, not a complete repair. |
| Windows starts but remains unreliable after simpler repairs | Reset this PC > Keep my files | Windows is reinstalled and personal files are intended to remain, but apps and settings are removed. Back up first. |
| WinRE is unavailable or its repair tools fail | Recovery drive or Windows installation media | External media provides another route to repair tools. Reinstalling Windows can erase data, so distinguish repair from installation carefully. |
| You suspect a failing drive or other hardware | Stop repeated recovery attempts and diagnose the hardware | Resetting or writing to a failing drive can make data recovery harder. |
This is a least-destructive-first guide, not a promise that every PC will show every option. Available tools can depend on the Windows version, device configuration, encryption, and whether its recovery environment is intact. Microsoft’s recovery-options guide also recommends choosing the repair according to the problem.
Before you start
- Back up important files if Windows still starts or the drive is readable. A restore or reset is not a substitute for a separate backup.
- Connect the computer to AC power. Do not shut it down during a restore or reset. Reset can leave the screen black for an extended time, sometimes more than 15 minutes; Microsoft warns that manually restarting during the process can cause it to fail. See Microsoft’s reset guidance.
- Find your BitLocker recovery key before entering recovery if possible. An encrypted device may ask for it before allowing access to tools or data. Without the key, encrypted files may remain inaccessible.
- Unplug unnecessary peripherals, especially newly added USB drives, docks, and hardware. Leave only what you need to operate the computer.
- Know your account password. WinRE may ask for the account password, not your Windows Hello PIN.
- Before resetting, note app licenses and sign-in or authentication details you will need to reinstall programs and access accounts.
Open the Windows Recovery Environment
WinRE is Windows’ recovery interface. Its menus may include Startup Repair, System Restore, Startup Settings, Uninstall Updates, Command Prompt, Reset this PC, UEFI Firmware Settings, and System Image Recovery. The exact phrase “System Recovery Options” is often used broadly; it is not the name of one repair action.
From Windows 11 Settings
- Open Start > Settings.
- Select System > Recovery.
- Beside Advanced startup, select Restart now and confirm.
From Windows 10 Settings
- Open Start > Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Recovery.
- Under Advanced startup, select Restart now.
These Windows 10 directions remain useful, but Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Windows 11 is the current supported focus; see Microsoft’s recovery guidance for current options.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Wide Application】This precision screwdriver set has 120 bits, complete with every driver bit you’ll need to tackle any repair or DIY project. In addition, this repair kit has 22 practical accessories, such as magnetizer, magnetic mat, ESD tweezers, suction cup, spudger, cleaning brush, etc. Whether you're a professional or a amateur, this toolkit has what you need to repair all cell phone, computer, laptops, SSD, iPad, game consoles, tablets, glasses, HVAC, sewing machine, etc
- 【Humanized Design】This electronic screwdriver set has been professionally designed to maximize your repair capabilities. The screwdriver features a particle grip and rubberized, ergonomic handle with swivel top, provides a comfort grip and smoothly spinning. Magnetic bit holder transmits magnetism through the screwdriver bit, helping you handle tiny screws. And flexible extension shaft is useful for removing screw in tight spots
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- 【Organize & Portable】All screwdriver bits are stored in rubber bit holder which marked with type and size for fast recognizing. And the repair tools are held in a tear-resistant and shock-proof oxford bag, offering a whole protection and organized storage, no more worry about losing anything. The tool bag with nylon strap is light and handy, easy to carry out, or placed in the home, office, car, drawer and other places
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With Shift + Restart
From the Start menu or sign-in screen, hold Shift while selecting Power > Restart. This is useful when Windows reaches the sign-in screen but you cannot open Settings.
If Windows will not boot
Microsoft documents a way to prompt Automatic Repair by interrupting startup twice:
- Turn on the PC and wait for the Windows or manufacturer logo.
- Hold the power button until the PC shuts down.
- Repeat that forced shutdown once.
- Turn it on a third time. If Automatic Repair appears, choose Advanced options.
Use this only as an emergency access method. It is not a routine shutdown procedure, is not guaranteed to work, and repeatedly cutting power can risk data corruption. If WinRE does not appear, use external recovery media instead.
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Boot from the recovery drive or Windows installation media. At Windows Setup, select your language and keyboard preferences, then choose Repair my PC—not Install—to open recovery tools. If the USB will not boot, the device may need a one-time boot-menu selection or a boot-order change in UEFI; the key and procedure vary by manufacturer. Microsoft explains both recovery drives and installation media.
Rank #2
- 【59 in 1 Precision Screwdriver Set】Small screwdriver set contains 44 screwdriver bits, Phillips PH000,PH00,PH0,PH1,PH2; Flathead -1.0, -1.5 -2.0,-3.0; Torx T1 T2 T3 T4 T5, Torx security TR6 TR7 TR8 TR9 TR10 TR15 TR20; Triwing Y0.6, Y1.5. Y2.3, Y3.0; Pentalobe P2(0.8) P5(1.2); Triangle 2.3; U-type U2.6; H-type: H0.9, H1.3, H1.5, H2.0, H2.5, H3.0; MID-type: MID; Sleeve: M2.5, M3.0, M3.5, M4.0, M4.5, Cross 2.0, G3.8, G4.5
- 【Unique Handle Design】Ergonomic design handle, more energy-saving operation, batch head built-in strong magnet, easy to adsorb the batch head. The screwdriver bit is made of high quality CRV steel, which is wear-resistant and hard.
- 【Multi-Functional Accessories】Mini Tool kit contains 15 accessories for a variety of repair needs, including a magnetic plus or minus area to increase or decrease the magnetism of the bit, a long pry bar, a scimitar shaped pry bar, four triangular pry blades, three double-ended pry bars, tweezers, a black cleaning brush, a SIM card thimble, and a suction cup. Note: The package is made of PP material without carton and user manual.
- 【Practical Storage Box】Compartments are categorized for placement, each CRV precision bit is marked with a model number for easy identification, neatly dispensed for easy storage and searching. The box is sturdy and durable with strong clasps that protect each accessory well. The bits are mini (long 28mm, diameter 3.98mm) for precision work, not suitable for large screws.
- 【Wide Scope of Application】Suitable for iPhone/Samsung/Huawei and other cell phones; Mini/Air/Pro and Huawei/Honor and other laptops; Macbook/Air/Pro; Kindle/Kindle Fire; Ring Video Doorbell/ Video Doorbell 2/Pro/Elite; PS4/PS5/XOBX game console controllers and consoles, and PC laptops , watches, glasses, jewelry, toys, flight models, drones, cameras, RC cars, and some small appliances like coffee makers.
What each recovery option does
Startup Repair
In WinRE, choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair. Select the Windows installation if prompted, provide the requested credentials, and let the check finish. It attempts to diagnose and repair common problems that prevent Windows from starting; it does not fix a failed SSD, damaged RAM, or every boot or system-file problem.
If it reports that it could not repair the PC, note the result and return to Advanced options. Try Uninstall Updates if the failure followed an update, or System Restore if it followed a software or configuration change. If Startup Repair repeatedly loops or the drive is not detected, move to external media or hardware diagnosis rather than repeating the same repair indefinitely. See Microsoft’s WinRE overview.
Uninstall Updates
Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates. Depending on the installation, you may be able to remove the latest quality update or the latest feature update. Use this when the timing points to an update as the cause, not as a routine way to avoid security updates. Once Windows is working, check for a suitable replacement update or other repair rather than leaving an important security fix unaddressed.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
System Restore
Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore, select an account if prompted, and choose a restore point from before the problem began. System Restore rolls system files, drivers, registry settings, and installed-program state back to that point. It can remove apps, drivers, or updates installed afterward. It is not a full backup and does not provide a dependable way to recover personal files; back those up separately.
Rank #3
- 【Precision screwdriver set】-- 40Pcs screwdriver set has 30 CRV screwdriver bits which are phillips PH000(+1.2) PH000(+1.5) PH00(+2.0) PH0(+3.0) PH1(+4.0), flathead -0.8 -1.2 -1.5 -2.5 -3.0, torx T1 T2 T3 T4 T5, torx security TR6 TR7 TR8 TR9 TR10 TR15 TR20, triwing Y000(Y0.6) Y00(Y1.5) Y0(Y2.5) Y1(Y3.0), pentalobe P2(0.8) P5(1.2) P6(1.5), MID 2.5, with a screwdriver handle, a double-ended spudger, a long spudger, 3 triangle spudgers, Tweezers, a cleaning brush and a suction cup with SIM card thimble.
- 【Slip-resistant rotatable handle】-- All our screwdriver bits are made of high quality CR-V chrome vanadium steel. CR-V screwdriver bits do not rust easily and are not prone to be broken. The screwdriver handle is made of TPR and PP materials, with a special non-slip design, offering a sense of comfortable. The top of the handle is rotatable design which makes it more convenient to remove the screws; the handle head and the screw head has magnetic adsorption which can quickly replace the screws.
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- 【Wide scope of application】-- +1.5/2.0 P2 Y0.6 MID2.5 are used for iPhone7/8/X/XR/11/12/13. +1.2/1.5/2.0/3.0 T2/3/4/5 P2 are used for Samsung/Huawei/Xiaomi and other phones. +1.5/2.0/3.0 T3/4/5/6/9 are used for iPad/Mini/Air/Pro. +1.2/1.5/2.0/3.0/4.0 T2/3/4/5 -2.5 are used for Huawei/Honor and other tablets. P2/5/6 +1.5/2.0/3.0/4.0 T3/4/5/6/7/8/9 Y2.5/3.0 are used for Macbook/Air/Pro. +1.5/2.0/3.0 T5 are for Kindle/Kindle Fire. T6/15 are used Ring Video Doorbell/ Video Doorbell 2/Pro/Elite.
- 【Wide scope of application】-- T8 +1.5/2.0/3.0 are used for PS3/PS4/PS5 controllers and consoles. T6/8/10 are used for Xbox 360/Xbox One/Xbox Series controllers and consoles. Y1.5/2.5/3.0 +1.5/2.0 are used for Switch/NS-Lite/Joy-Con/Wii/Game Boy Advance. T3/8 are used for Fitbit wristband/folding knife. +1.2/1.5/2.0/3.0/4.0 T3/4/5/6/7/8/9 Y2.5/3.0 -2.5 are used for Microsoft/Acer/Dell and other laptops. +1.2/1.5/2.0/3.0/4.0 -0.8/1.2/1.5/2.5/3.0 are used for Desktop Computer/Watch/Glasses/Toy.
System Restore requires a usable restore point. If none is listed, it cannot perform a rollback. Choose another option based on the cause, such as Uninstall Updates, Safe Mode, or Reset this PC. WinRE may ask for your account password and, on an encrypted PC, the BitLocker key. Microsoft describes the tool in its recovery options.
Startup Settings and Safe Mode
Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart. After the restart, select an option using the number or function key shown. Options include Safe Mode, Safe Mode with Networking, low-resolution video, boot logging, and disabling automatic restart after a system failure.
Safe Mode starts Windows with a limited set of drivers and services. If the fault disappears there, a third-party driver, service, or startup program becomes a more plausible cause—but Safe Mode does not prove that hardware is healthy or repair the problem by itself. Use the limited session to remove a recently installed driver or app, investigate startup software, run a trusted scan, or collect information. Follow Microsoft’s Startup Settings guide.
Reset this PC
From Windows 11, go to Start > Settings > System > Recovery > Reset PC. From WinRE, choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
Rank #4
- 【Precision Screwdriver Set】 Small screwdriver set has 140 bits in multiple models, including Torx , Phillips, Pentalobe, Star, Triwing, Triangle Etc, covering most screwdriver models on the market. The 4 long bits can help you remove deeper screws. Some commonly used screwdriver bits are also equipped with 2-3 bits of the same model as backup.
- 【Unique Handle Design and CRV Material】 The screwdriver handle is made of TPR and PP materials, the cap is rotatable, and it adopts an extended tool bar design. The length of the tool bar can be adjusted, making it easy to reach deep for disassembly. Screwdriver bits are made of high-quality CRV steel, which is wear-resistant and has high hardness.
- 【Multifunctional Accessories】 Mini screwdriver set contains 12 accessories to meet various repair needs. The matching flexible shaft facilitates multi-angle disassembly and repair of electronic products. The magnetizer demagnetizer tool can increase or decrease the magnetism of the bit. The magnetic mat is used to absorb small screws to avoid loss. The 1/4‘’ to 4mm silver adapter provided is used for drill to adapt large and thick bits, which is not suitable for precision and small manual screwdriver bits. This toolkit also comes with a double-ended pry bar, triangular pick and suction cup for easy repairing.
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- 【Wide Range of Application】Applicable to iPhone/Samsung/Huawei and other cell phones; Mini/Air/Pro and Huawei/Honor and other tablet PCs; Macbook/Air/Pro; Kindle/Kindle Fire; Ring Visual Doorbell/Visual Doorbell 2/Pro/Elite; PS4/PS5/XOBX game consoles, as well as PC laptop computers, jewelry, toys, aeromodels, drones, remote-control cars, and some small household appliances such as coffee machines.
- Keep my files reinstalls Windows and is intended to retain personal files, but removes apps and resets settings. It does not mean that nothing can be lost; back up first.
- Remove everything removes personal files, apps, and settings. Use it when you deliberately want a fresh start, not as a casual troubleshooting step.
- Cloud download downloads a fresh Windows copy. It can help when local recovery files are damaged, but needs a reliable internet connection and may use substantial data.
- Local reinstall uses files already on the PC. It avoids a large download, but may not help if those local files are damaged or outdated.
- Clean data, where offered, makes deleted data harder to recover when preparing a PC for another owner. Microsoft says this is not designed to meet government or industry data-erasure standards; do not treat it as certified secure erasure.
Read each confirmation screen carefully and keep the PC connected to power. A prolonged black screen does not necessarily mean the reset has stalled. Do not force a restart just because the display is blank. If a reset repeatedly fails, use installation media or investigate possible drive failure instead of endlessly retrying. Details are in Microsoft’s Reset your PC guide.
System Image Recovery
Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Image Recovery is useful only if you previously created a compatible system image and can access it from a drive or network location. It can restore the Windows installation, apps, settings, and data represented in that image, potentially replacing the current system state. Unlike System Restore, it needs a full image backup; unlike a file backup, it may replace more than the settings that caused the trouble. Do not select it unless you understand which image will be restored and what current data may be overwritten.
Command Prompt
Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt only if you are comfortable identifying the Windows volume and following a specific repair procedure. Drive letters can change in WinRE, so do not assume the installation is on C:. To inspect volumes without changing partitions, run:
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesdiskpart
list volume
exitIdentify the Windows volume before using any repair command. For example, the following commands are examples only; replace C: with the correct volume and use them only when appropriate:
Best Value
- 64-in-1 Precision Screwdriver Set: This small screwdriver set includes 48 bits (Phillips, Flathead, Torx, Torx security, Triwing, Pentalobe, Hex, Triangle, U-type, Square, SIM, MID, OVAL, Gamebit, Nut driver). It's a complete electronics repair kit that has been professionally designed to repair computers, PC, laptops, Macbooks, tablet, phones, PS4 PS5, XBOX, Switch, eyeglasses, drone, watches, Ring doorbells and more
- Ergonomic & Magnetic Design: The super smooth swivel cap on the top of the handle makes it easier to rotate screws with less effort. This mini screwdriver features an ergonomic non-slip design and rubberized handle that provides a comfortable grip and precise control. The built-in strong magnet ensures magnetic bit holder transmits magnetism through the screwdriver tip to help you with tiny screws
- Practical Accessories: Our electronics tool kit comes with 8 types of 15 essential accessories. Magnetizer can enhance the magnetism of the screwdriver tip, pointed tweezers make it easy to handle screws and tiny components, spudger and hook tool is effective for connecting/disconnecting components, scraping off adhesives, suction cup, pry tools, opening picks and brush to help open and clean your device
- Organize & Portable Storage: All screwdriver bits are stored in rubber bit holder which marked with type and size for fast recognizing. The rubber bit holder can be fixed on the shelf of the sturdy plastic case, also can be removed for easy access, making it more convenient for you to perform repairs. The case provides secure protection and organized storage, while being lightweight and portable for easy transportation
- Premium Quality & Warranty: STREBITO manufactures premium quality, pro-grade screwdriver set. The precision bits are CNC machined to be precise, made of 60HRC Chromium-vanadium steel which is resist abrasion, oxidation and corrosion. This micro screwdriver set is covered by our lifetime warranty. If you have any issues with the quality or usage, simply contact customer service for troubleshooting help
chkdsk C: /f
sfc /scannow /offbootdir=C: /offwindir=C:Windowschkdsk can take a long time, especially on large or damaged drives. If the drive clicks, disappears, reports errors suggesting physical failure, or contains irreplaceable data without a backup, stop before running repeated write or repair operations and consider data recovery. Boot repair instructions such as bootrec or bcdboot depend on whether the system uses UEFI/GPT or legacy BIOS/MBR; a generic command sequence can make boot problems worse, so do not run one without a procedure tailored to the device.
UEFI Firmware Settings
Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart to reach firmware controls such as boot order or Secure Boot. Change a setting only when you know why it needs changing and can restore the original value. An incorrect boot mode or storage-controller setting can create a new boot failure. See Microsoft’s information on Windows 11 and Secure Boot.
Point-in-time restore: a separate, version-dependent feature
Do not confuse the conventional System Restore option in WinRE with Microsoft’s separate Point-in-time restore feature. Microsoft says it is planned to be enabled by default starting with Windows 11, version 26H2, and describes it as restoring more than traditional System Restore, including files, apps, settings, passwords, certificates, and keys on the system drive. Availability depends on Windows version, configuration, and rollout; it is not a universal option on every Windows 11 PC. Check the feature’s current availability and what it will restore before relying on it.
Recommended Free Tools
If recovery tools do not work
- Try external media. Use a recovery drive or create Windows installation media on another working PC. Boot from it and select Repair my PC first. Choosing a clean install instead can erase files.
- Check whether the drive is detected. If the SSD or hard disk is missing in firmware or recovery tools, a Windows reset cannot repair that. Check manufacturer guidance or seek hardware service.
- Protect data before reinstalling. If the drive remains readable, copy important files before a clean installation. If it is failing and data matters, stop repeated attempts and consult a data-recovery professional.
- Use a clean reinstall selectively. It may be appropriate after persistent corruption or serious malware, but back up only necessary personal files and avoid restoring suspicious programs or system images. For a business-critical device or suspected compromise, involve the relevant IT or security specialist.
- Escalate suspected hardware faults. Clicking storage, a drive that repeatedly disappears, SMART warnings, recurring crashes across clean installations, or installation failures from multiple known-good media point beyond ordinary Windows recovery. A failing SSD/HDD, RAM, overheating, motherboard, power supply, display, or GPU needs hardware diagnosis.
If the problem seems malware-related, System Restore is not a guaranteed removal method. A trusted scan or clean reinstall may be more appropriate, but reinstalling Windows does not fix compromised firmware or damaged hardware. For OEM recovery partitions or device-specific diagnostics, consult the PC manufacturer.
Windows 10 note
The recovery tools and WinRE concepts described here also apply to Windows 10 PCs, with the Settings path shown above. However, Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Continuing to use an unsupported Windows installation has security implications; see Microsoft’s recovery options and plan an appropriate supported operating system path for the device.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
