computer stuck on restarting

Did you experience a problem where Windows 11 computer stuck on restarting and does not boot up normally? You are not alone, several users report that the laptop is stuck on never never-ending loop of the restarting screen. This is a common issue that can be caused by various factors, such as corrupted system files, incompatible drivers, malware infections, hardware failures, and more. Here is how to troubleshoot and resolve the Windows 11 computer stuck on restarting issue using different methods.

Windows is stuck on restarting loop

When your Windows 11 PC stuck on restarting screen, it typically indicates a problem during the boot process. This can occur during a routine restart or when installing updates. The screen might display the Windows logo or a loading animation endlessly, indicating that the system is unable to complete the restart process. Several factors can contribute to Windows 11 getting stuck on the restart screen:

  1. Pending Updates: If Windows is in the process of installing updates, it might encounter errors or conflicts that prevent it from completing the restart.
  2. Driver Issues: Outdated or incompatible device drivers can interfere with the restart process and cause the system to hang.
  3. Software Conflicts: Certain third-party programs or recently installed software may conflict with Windows components, leading to instability during restarts.
  4. Hardware Problems: Faulty hardware components such as a failing hard drive or malfunctioning RAM can also cause the system to freeze during restarts.
  5. Corrupted System Files: Damage to critical system files due to malware infections or disk errors can disrupt the restart procedure.

Depending on the cause of the problem, there are different methods that you can try to fix your laptop stuck on restarting Windows 11. Here are some of the most effective ones:

Perform a Forced Shutdown

Sometimes, the system may get stuck during the restart process due to various reasons such as software conflicts or temporary glitches. Force restarting the computer can help break out of this state and allow it to boot up normally.

  • Press and hold down the power button on your computer for about 10 seconds until the system powers off completely.
  • Wait for a few seconds before releasing the power button.
  • Now try to start your computer as usual using the power button.

Also, External devices connected to your computer can interrupt the reboot process and cause Windows to become stuck. Disconnecting them removes potential sources of interference, allowing the system to restart without any issues.

It’s helpful because it interrupts any processes or tasks that may be causing the system to hang on the restart screen, providing a clean slate for troubleshooting.

Boot into Safe Mode

Safe mode is a diagnostic mode that allows you to start your computer with only the essential drivers and services. This can help you isolate and identify potential software conflicts or issues that may be preventing normal boot-up.

  • Press Windows key + R, type msconfig, and click ok to open system configuration,
  • Switch to the Boot tab, select Safe boot, and make sure the Minimal option is selected.
  • Also, you can select the Network option to enable internet access in safe mode.

Safe mode boot option

  • Click on apply then ok to save changes, and reboot your computer, Your PC will now boot into the Safe mode.

Now you can perform the troubleshooting steps suggested below to fix the laptop stuck on restarting problem. Once you are done, you need to uncheck the safe boot option to exit safe mode and start the computer normally.

Note: Due to this problem, If you are unable to access the normal desktop, you need to access the Advanced options to start your computer in safe mode.

Safe Mode Boot

This step is helpful because it allows you to access the system in a minimal state, making it easier to identify and resolve the underlying cause of the restart screen problem.

Check for Pending Updates

Pending updates may include fixes for known issues, including those related to the restart process. Installing these updates can address underlying issues and improve system stability, potentially resolving the problem of being stuck on the restart screen.

  • Press the Windows key + X and select settings
  • Go to Windows Update and hit Check for updates,
  • If new updates are available, allow them to download and install.
  • Once, done you need to restart your computer to apply changes.

Download Windows 11 update

In addition open the device manager and update the display driver/Graphics driver as it play an important role on your system performance.

Update Graphics driver

Repair corrupt system files using SFC and DISM

Corrupted system files can cause various issues, including problems with restarting. Running SFC and DISM helps ensure system integrity and can fix the underlying cause of the restart screen issue. System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) are built-in Windows tools that can scan and repair corrupt system files.

  • Open the Start menu and type cmd. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  • In the command prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This will scan and repair any system files that are corrupted or missing.
  • After the scan is finished, type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter. This will scan and restore any corrupted or missing system components.
  • Restart your computer normally and see if the issue is resolved.

Run SFC and DISM command

Run power troubleshooter

The power troubleshooter is a diagnostic tool that can identify and automatically fix common power-related issues. If the system is getting stuck on the restart screen due to power management issues or settings, running the power troubleshooter can help diagnose and resolve the problem.

  • Open settings using Windows key + I
  • Go to the system then troubleshoot and click on other troubleshooters
  • Scroll down and click Run next to the power option, and follow On-screen instructions.
  • This will identify and automatically fix issues related to power settings and configurations.

power troubleshooter windows 11

Disable fast startup

Fast startup is a feature in Windows that combines hibernation and shutdown to speed up the boot process. However, it can sometimes cause issues, including problems with restarting. Disabling fast startup allows for a clean shutdown and startup sequence, potentially resolving the restart screen problem.

  • Go to Control Panel > Power Options.
  • Click on “Choose what the power buttons do” from the left panel.
  • Click on “Change settings that are currently unavailable.”
  • Uncheck the “Turn on fast startup (recommended)” option.
  • Click on “Save changes.”

windows 11 fast startup

Disabling it ensures a complete shutdown and may prevent any conflicts that could lead to the system being stuck on the restart screen.

Clear Windows update cache

The Software Distribution folder stores temporary files related to Windows updates. If these files become corrupted, it can lead to update issues. Well if you notice Windows Update is Stuck on Restarting, clear Windows update cache helps fix the problem.

  • Press Windows key + R, type services.msc and ok to open the services window,
  • Right-click on windows update select stop, now navigate, C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
  • Open the download folder, and clear all files and folders there, press ctrl + A to select all then hit Del key.
  • Once done restart your computer to check if this helps fix the problem.

Uninstall any recent Windows Updates

Sometimes, Windows updates can introduce new issues or conflicts that cause problems like being stuck on the restart screen. If the problem started after installing a specific update, uninstalling that update can revert the system to a stable state and resolve the issue.

You can open settings -> Windows update -> update history then uninstall the updates option to remove recent Windows updates. Here is a video on how to uninstall Windows updates on Windows 11.

Perform system restore

System restore allows you to revert your system to a previous working state. If the problem started after a recent change or update, performing a system restore to a point before the issue occurred can effectively resolve it by undoing the problematic changes.

  • Go to Control Panel > Recovery.
  • Click on “Open System Restore.”
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point and complete the process.

Restore your system

Hardware issues can also cause your laptop to get stuck on restarting Windows 11. To avoid any hardware-related issues, you should always keep your hardware in good condition and free from any physical damage or wear and tear. You can do this by cleaning your laptop regularly, avoiding any exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture, and replacing any faulty or old components as soon as possible.

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Robeg
I am Robeg founder of this blog. My qualification. completed Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP). With a strong background in computer applications love write articles on Microsoft Windows (11, 10, etc.) Cybersecurity, WordPress and more.