How to fix a Windows computer stuck on the loading or spinning circle screen

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to fix a Windows computer stuck on the loading or spinning circle screen. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

When a Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer gets stuck on the spinning circle (also called the loading screen or "spinner of doom"), it usually means Windows is having trouble starting up properly. This can be caused by a recent software update, a driver issue, corrupted system files, or even a failing hard drive. The good news is that Windows includes several built-in recovery tools that can get you back up and running without needing a full reinstall.

This guide walks you through the most effective fixes, starting with the quickest and moving to more advanced options.

Before You Begin

You'll need access to the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) for most of these steps. If your PC isn't responding at all, force it off by holding the power button for about 10 seconds, then turn it back on. As soon as you see the manufacturer's logo or Windows begins loading, hold the power button again to force a shutdown. Repeat this three times in a row. On the third restart, Windows should automatically boot into the Recovery Environment.

Quick Fix Steps

If you can get into the Recovery Environment, try these solutions in order.

1. Run Startup Repair

1. From the Recovery Environment, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options.
2. Choose Startup Repair.
3. Select your Windows installation (usually the only option listed).
4. Wait for the tool to scan and attempt repairs. This can take several minutes.
5. If a fix is found, Windows will restart automatically. If no issues are detected, move to the next step.

2. Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode loads Windows with only the essential drivers and services, which helps you identify whether a third-party program is causing the problem.

1. In the Recovery Environment, go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
2. Click Restart.
3. After the restart, press F5 (or 5) to select Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
4. Once in Safe Mode, open Settings > Apps > Installed apps and uninstall any programs you recently added.
5. Check Device Manager for any devices with a yellow warning triangle. Right-click the device and choose Update driver or Uninstall device.
6. Restart your PC normally to see if the issue is resolved.

Detailed Troubleshooting

If Startup Repair and Safe Mode don't resolve the issue, work through the steps below.

Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can prevent Windows from loading. You can repair them using built-in command-line tools.

1. Boot into Safe Mode with Command Prompt from Advanced options.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

   sfc /scannow

3. Wait for the scan to complete. If it finds and fixes issues, restart your PC.
4. If SFC reports it couldn't fix some files, run these commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

5. Restart your computer when finished.

Perform a System Restore

If the problem started recently, rolling Windows back to a previous restore point can undo changes without affecting your personal files.

1. From the Recovery Environment, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
2. Choose your Windows installation and click Next.
3. Select a restore point dated before the issue began. If multiple points are listed, pick the most recent one that works.
4. Click Scan for affected programs to see what will be changed.
5. Confirm your selection and click Finish to start the restore.

Uninstall Recent Windows Updates

A faulty Windows update is one of the most common causes of startup loops.

1. In the Recovery Environment, go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates.
2. Choose either Uninstall latest quality update or Uninstall latest feature update.
3. Select your Windows installation and confirm.
4. Restart your PC once the uninstall completes.

Check the Hard Drive or SSD

Failing storage can cause Windows to hang on the loading screen because it can't read the files it needs.

1. Boot into Safe Mode with Command Prompt.
2. Type wmic diskdrive get status and press Enter. The result should read OK.
3. For a more thorough check, run chkdsk C: /f /r and press Enter. You may be prompted to schedule the check for the next restart; type Y and reboot.
4. If errors are reported that can't be repaired, your drive may be failing and should be backed up and replaced as soon as possible.

Reset Windows

As a last resort, you can reset Windows while keeping or removing your personal files.

1. From the Recovery Environment, select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
2. Choose either Keep my files or Remove everything.
3. Select Cloud download to fetch a fresh copy of Windows, or Local reinstall to use files already on your PC.
4. Follow the prompts to complete the reset.

Preventing the Issue from Recurring

• Keep Windows updated, but pause updates if you notice repeated problems after a new release.
• Only install drivers from your hardware manufacturer's website.
• Avoid running multiple "PC cleaner" or optimisation utilities, as they can conflict with Windows services.
• Make sure your computer has adequate ventilation. Overheating can cause startup failures, especially on laptops.
• Back up important files regularly to an external drive or cloud service.

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If none of these steps resolve the issue, there may be a hardware fault that requires professional service. Contact our support team for further assistance.

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