When your computer displays the “Getting Windows Ready” message for an extended period, it can be frustrating. This issue often occurs when updates are being installed or when the system encounters problems during startup. While patience might resolve it in some cases, there are times when further intervention is necessary.
Common Causes
Generally, the message “Getting Windows Ready” stuck suggests that something is delaying or malfunctioning either in the update process or when booting up. Scenarios include:
- Pending Windows Updates: Sometimes, extremely large or cumulative updates take their sweet time to install.
- Corrupted System Files: Problems with critical Windows components can interrupt updates or startup.
- Hardware Conflicts: External devices or internal components may interfere with the process.
- Slow System Performance: Limited system resources can extend update or boot times.
Solutions
Give It Time
If the message appears, the first thing to do is to wait. Some updates, in particular larger ones, can take quite some time to finish. Let the process work up to two hours before assuming something is wrong.
Perform a Hard Restart
If the problem does not get fixed by waiting, then hard restart: Hold down the power button until your computer is completely turned off. Wait a few seconds and then press the power button to power it back on. Check if the issue still persists.
Disconnect Unnecessary Devices
External devices like USB drives, printers, and other peripherals can sometimes interfere with the system’s ability to process updates or startup tasks. Disconnect all non-essential devices and restart your computer.
Use Safe Mode
Booting into Safe Mode can help you narrow down the problem and avoid some issues altogether. To boot into Safe Mode:
- Restart your computer and press/hold down the Shift key while clicking Restart.
- Under the Advanced options window, click on Startup Settings > Restart.
- After the restart, tap Enable Safe Mode or Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
In Safe Mode, you will be able to uninstall any problematic updates or drivers causing the issue.
Run a Startup Repair
Startup Repair is a Windows utility designed to fix blue-screen errors and other issues that might prevent your system from booting as expected. To boot into Windows Recovery, restart your computer, hold Shift, and click Restart. Click Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Repair. Follow the prompt, and let this utility detect and fix any issue that may come its way.
Reinstall Windows
If all other things fail, then reinstalling Windows afresh may work. This approach reinstalls the operating system and often gets rid of deep-seated problems.
- Run the Windows Media Creation Tool to make the USB drive a bootable one.
- Insert the USB drive into the computer and restart.
- Follow the installation prompts to reinstall Windows.
- Back up your important files before proceeding, as this will wipe your data.
FAQs
Why does the ‘Getting Windows Ready’ message take so long?
This typically occurs during large updates or when the system encounters issues during the installation or startup process.
Can I power off the PC during the process?
If the message lingers for more than two hours, one may attempt to reboot the device hard. However, if this is done during any critical update, it may lead to data loss or further complications.
How can I avoid this problem next time?
It includes keeping the system updated, cleaning up temporary files periodically, and ensuring that no hardware incompatibility issues arise.
Do I lose my files when reinstalling Windows?
A clean reinstall will erase your data, so back up important files before proceeding. Alternatively, you can opt for a reinstall that retains personal files.
Is there a tool to fix Windows errors automatically?
Yes, tools like Outbyte PC Repair can help optimize your system’s performance and resolve many common Windows issues. You can download it here.
