Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE) is a set of tools included with Windows that can help you troubleshoot and fix common problems with your computer. If your computer is having trouble starting up, Windows RE can automatically start and try to repair the issue. Windows RE is also a starting point for various tools for manual system recovery.
Method 1: Automatic Repair (For Windows 8 and later versions)
For newer operating systems like Windows 8/8.1, 10, and 11, Windows will automatically launch into Windows RE after several consecutive startup failures (typically 2-3). You can also force Windows to enter Automatic Repair by interrupting the normal boot process twice as follows:
- Press the power button to start your computer. As soon as you see the Windows logo or the manufacturer's logo, immediately press and hold the power button again until the computer shuts down.
- Repeat this process once: Start the computer again and force a shutdown at the logo screen.
- Start the computer a third time. The system will detect the startup failures and display "Diagnosing your PC" or "Preparing Automatic Repair".
- Wait for the Automatic Repair screen to appear, then click Advanced options.
5. You will now be in Windows RE. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options to access all recovery tools, such as Startup Settings and Command Prompt.
Method 2: Advanced Boot Options Menu (For Windows 7 and earlier versions)
For older systems like Windows 7, Vista, and XP, you can access the Windows RE through the Advanced Boot Options menu.
- Press the power button to start your computer.
- Immediately after the POST completes and before the Windows logo appears, press the F8 key repeatedly and rapidly.
- If successful, a black screen titled Advanced Boot Options will appear.
- Use the arrow keys to select Repair Your Computer and press Enter.
- On the language/keyboard selection screen, click Next.
- In the subsequent logon dialog, select a user account, enter the password, and click OK.
- The system will now load the recovery environment, giving you access to the full set of recovery tools.
Method 3: Using a Windows Repair Disc
If you have created a Windows Repair Disc, you can boot your computer from it. This will take you directly to Windows RE.
Method 4: Using Windows Installation Media
If you have a Windows installation USB drive or disc, you can use it to boot your computer and access Windows RE.
- Insert the Windows installation USB drive or disc into your computer.
- Start your computer and configure it to boot from the installation media.
- On the initial Windows Setup screen, click Next.
- In the lower-left corner of the Install now screen, click Repair your computer. The system will then enter the recovery environment.