Computer does not start up - what to do?
If the computer no longer starts up, this can have various causes. In this practical tip, you can find out which ones exist and how to deal with these problems.
Computer no longer starts: causes and solutions
If your computer hangs before Windows starts or does not respond at all, there is an error in your hardware. In the following points, we present various solutions.
- If you press the on / off switch of your computer and a beep sounds, the error is in your BIOS. Each beep represents a specific error. With our list of all BIOS error signals, you can identify the error and possibly fix it yourself.
- If a blue or black image without text appears shortly after switching on, check the cable connection to your monitor. To be absolutely sure, replace the cable. We recommend using HDMI or display port.
- If your computer does not respond when you press the on / off switch, there is no power supply. First of all, you should now check all power cables or the power button and replace them if necessary. If that doesn't work, have the power supply checked. You can find out how to change your defective power supply yourself in another practical tip.
- If none of this works, the problem can also be due to an outdated BIOS. We'll show you how to update your BIOS. Incorrect settings can also cause the problem, read more here.
Startup error - you can do that
If the operating system starts but does not start up completely, there is a software error. After a few attempts to start, Windows offers some repair options. However, it is often easier to reinstall the operating system. You should be clear whether and where important data is on your computer.
- If you have a recent backup of your Windows installation, you can reset the system to an earlier, functional state. However, important data can also be lost. If you are not sure, try data recovery first.
- Start Windows in safe mode to get access to your data and the on-board resources for hard disk verification. Back up the data either individually on an external drive or mirror the entire hard drive.
- Once the data has been saved, you can reinstall the operating system. Download the "Windows 10 Setup Tool" on another PC and install it. Follow the instructions to create a bootable Windows USB stick.
- Switch to the defective computer and start it using this USB stick. You may have to change the boot order of the drives in the BIOS. Finally, follow the instructions in the wizard to reinstall Windows.
In some cases, broken or incompatible hardware causes problems. How you can recognize that your mainboard is defective can be read in our next practical tip.