What to do if my Windows 10 computer is stuck on restarting

Having your Windows 10 computer stuck on restarting can be incredibly frustrating. It often indicates a deeper problem, but don't panic! This guide will walk you through several troubleshooting steps to get your system back up and running. We'll cover everything from simple fixes to more advanced solutions to help you resolve the computer stuck restarting windows 10 issue.

Why is My Windows 10 Computer Stuck on Restarting?

There are several reasons why your Windows 10 PC might be caught in a restart loop. Common causes include:

• Corrupted system files
• Driver issues
• Problematic Windows updates
• Hardware conflicts
• Malware infections

Identifying the root cause can be tricky, but by systematically trying the solutions below, you should be able to get things sorted out.

Force Restart: The First Step

Sometimes, a simple force restart can break the loop. Press and hold the power button on your computer until it shuts down completely. Wait a few seconds, and then press the power button again to turn it back on. This might seem too simple, but it often works. If this resolves the issue temporarily, it's still wise to investigate the cause of the windows 10 restart loop fix.

Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services. If your computer restarts successfully in Safe Mode, it indicates that a third-party application or driver is likely causing the problem. Here’s how to boot into Safe Mode:

1. Interrupt the startup process: Power on your computer. As soon as you see the Windows logo, press and hold the power button again until it shuts down. Repeat this process 2-3 times.
2. Automatic Repair: After a few failed attempts, Windows should boot into the Automatic Repair environment.
3. Advanced Options: Click on "Advanced options."
4. Troubleshoot: Select "Troubleshoot."
5. Advanced Options (again): Choose "Advanced options" again.
6. Startup Settings: Click "Startup Settings." If you don’t see this option, click "See more recovery options."
7. Restart: Click "Restart."
8. Choose Safe Mode: After your computer restarts, you’ll see a list of options. Press 4 or F4 to start in Safe Mode. You can also choose Safe Mode with Networking (5 or F5) if you need internet access.

Once in Safe Mode, you can try uninstalling recently installed programs or drivers that might be causing the issue. Addressing the underlying software or driver problem can resolve the windows 10 restart problem troubleshooting.

Perform a System Restore

System Restore allows you to revert your computer's system files to a previous point in time. If the problem started recently, this is a good option to try. Here's how:

1. Boot into Advanced Options: Follow steps 1-5 from the "Boot into Safe Mode" section above to get to the Advanced Options menu.
2. System Restore: Select "System Restore."
3. Choose a Restore Point: Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point from before the problem started.

Important: System Restore will remove any programs or drivers installed after the selected restore point. Make sure you back up any important data before proceeding. A successful system restore can often fix windows 10 system restore restart issues.

Run System File Checker (SFC)

The System File Checker is a built-in tool that scans for and repairs corrupted system files. Here's how to run it:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator: In Safe Mode or Advanced Options, open the Command Prompt.
2. Run SFC: Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the Scan: Let the scan complete. This may take some time.

If SFC finds and repairs corrupted files, restart your computer to see if the issue is resolved. Fixing corrupted files may be the solution to the computer endlessly restarting windows 10 issue.

Check for Driver Updates

Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause a variety of problems, including restart loops. Make sure your drivers are up to date.

1. Open Device Manager: In Safe Mode, search for "Device Manager" and open it.
2. Update Drivers: Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark. Right-click on the device and select "Update driver."
3. Automatic or Manual Update: Choose to search automatically for updated drivers, or browse your computer for driver software if you have downloaded drivers from the manufacturer's website.

Keeping drivers current can prevent a fix windows 10 frozen restart situation.

Reset Windows 10

If all else fails, you might need to reset Windows 10. This will reinstall the operating system, removing your personal files, settings, and apps. It's a drastic step, but it can often resolve stubborn problems.

1. Boot into Advanced Options: Follow steps 1-5 from the "Boot into Safe Mode" section above to get to the Advanced Options menu.
2. Reset this PC: Select "Reset this PC."
3. Choose an Option: You'll have two options: "Keep my files" or "Remove everything." Choose the option that best suits your needs.
4. Follow the Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.

Warning: Make sure you have a backup of your important files before resetting Windows 10. Data loss can be a factor when needing to troubleshoot windows 10 restart failure.

Hardware Issues

While software issues are more common, hardware problems can also cause a restart loop. If you've tried all the software solutions above and your computer is still stuck on restarting, consider the possibility of a hardware issue. This might include failing RAM, a faulty hard drive, or a problem with the motherboard. If you suspect a hardware problem, it's best to consult a qualified technician. They will be able to diagnose and repair the issue properly.

Need more help?

For additional support, you can also consider seeking assistance from online forums, Microsoft support pages, or by contacting a local computer repair shop. Search specifically for steps to address windows 10 won't finish restarting.

Conclusion

A Windows 10 computer stuck on restarting can be a challenging problem to solve, but by following these steps, you should be able to identify and fix the issue. Remember to start with the simplest solutions and work your way up to the more advanced ones. With a bit of patience and persistence, you'll have your system back up and running in no time. If your efforts to solve fix windows 10 frozen restart fail, remember to consult a qualified technician.