How to Fix a Getting Windows Ready Stuck

Windows users often encounter a common hiccup during updates or system restarts – the notorious “Getting Windows Ready Stuck” issue. This situation arises when your computer seems to be stuck at a particular phase of the update process, leaving users in a state of uncertainty and frustration. 

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the causes behind this phenomenon and equip you with a comprehensive guide on how to tackle and resolve the “Getting Windows Ready Stuck” problem efficiently.

Why is My Computer Stuck on “Getting Windows ready”?

There are several reasons why your computer might be stuck on the “Getting Windows ready” screen. Here are some common culprits:

1. Update process: This is the most likely scenario. Your computer might be in the process of installing Windows updates, which can take some time, especially if you have a large number of updates pending or a slow internet connection.
2. Software conflicts: Incompatible or outdated software or drivers can interfere with the Windows startup process, causing it to get stuck.
3. Corrupted system files: Damaged or missing system files can also prevent your computer from booting up properly. This can happen due to various reasons, such as sudden shutdowns, power outages, or malware infections.
4. Hardware issues: In rare cases, a faulty hard drive or other hardware component might be causing the problem.

Methods to Fix the “Windows Ready Stuck” Issue 

Facing the “Windows Update Stuck” issue can be frustrating, but no need to stress. We’ve got simple fixes that don’t require complicated troubleshooting. In this guide, we’ve gathered expert solutions from Microsoft technicians to help you easily improve the situation.

1. Disconnect Power Souce and Internet

“How long have you been waiting? If your computer is connected to the Internet, it might be installing updates, causing the delay. Check if the hard disk LED light is blinking, indicating activity. If it is, just wait. If the setup takes more than 2 to 3 hours, try these steps:

• Turn off the computer.
• Unplug it and wait for 10 seconds.
• If you’re using a laptop, remove the battery if possible.
• Disconnect from the Internet by unplugging Ethernet or turning off Wi-Fi.
• Plug it back in, ensuring it remains disconnected from the Internet.
• Start the computer and observe if it completes the setup.

2. Perform a Reset and Restore

Performing a system restore or reset can potentially help if you’re stuck on the “Getting Windows ready” screen, but it’s important to understand the differences and approach them with caution as they impact your data differently. 

How to Restore Data

• Press the “Windows key + R” to open the Run dialog box.
• Type “rstrui” and press Enter to open the System Restore window.
• Follow the on-screen instructions. Click Next
• The below image will appear. Select Next

• A confirmation prompt will appear, select ” Finish” and  next select “Ok”

• Your system will start its process of restoration.  Remember that in this process you cannot use your system.

Here’s how to Perform a System Reset:

• Go to Settings
• Search for  “Recovery,” and Click on Reset Option

Remember, backing up your data is highly recommended before attempting any of these methods, especially a system reset with the “Remove everything” option.

3. Clear Windows Update Cache

Stale or corrupted files in the Windows Update cache can impede the update process. Clear the cache by opening Command Prompt as an administrator and executing a series of commands. These commands stop relevant services, rename existing directories, and restart the services to create a fresh update environment.

• Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each command:
• Type “net stop wuauservand” and press Enter.

• Type “net stop cryptSvc” and press Enter.
• Type “net stop bits” and press Enter.
• Type “net stop msiserver” and press Enter.
• Type “ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old” and press Enter.
• Type “ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old” and press Enter.
• Type “net start wuauserv” and press Enter.
• Type “net start cryptSvc” and press Enter.
• Type “net start bits” and press Enter.
• Type “net start msiserver” and press Enter.
• Close the Command Prompt and check if the issue is resolved.

After performing these steps, restart your computer and check if the update progresses without getting stuck.

Advanced Methods to Fix Windows Struck Issues

If the “Getting Windows Ready Stuck” issue persists despite trying the quick fixes, it’s time to explore more advanced solutions. These steps delve deeper into the system and provide targeted approaches to resolve the problem:

Method 1:- Update Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible device drivers can lead to update issues. Ensure that your device drivers are up to date. You can manually update drivers through Device Manager or use third-party tools to automate the process.

• Search Device Manager on the Windows search bar. Open it
  
• Search Display Adapter and click on the arrow
• A dropdown will appear with the following options which are shown in the image. Select “Update Drive”
•  Select “Update Driver”

Method 2:- Run System File Checker (SFC):

System File Checker is a built-in tool that scans and repairs corrupted system files. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the following command:

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Run the command:” sfc /scannow.”

• Allow the scan to complete and follow any suggested repairs.

Method 3:- Check Disk Utility:

Disk errors can contribute to update problems. Run the Check Disk utility to identify and fix disk-related issues.

 Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the following command: chkdsk /f

• Restart your computer to allow the utility to scan and repair the disk.

Method 4:- Turn On Firewall

Malware can interfere with system processes, including updates. Perform a thorough malware scan using a reputable antivirus or antimalware tool to ensure your system is clean.

• Use the search box on the taskbar to find and open Control Panel.
• Click on “System and Security” from the available options.
• Within the System and Security section, locate and click on “Security and Maintenance.”
• Click on View in Windows Security look for any updates and install it.

Method 5:- Contact Microsoft Support:

If none of the above solutions yield results, reaching out to Microsoft Support might be necessary. They can provide personalized assistance and guidance based on your system’s unique circumstances.

Method 6: Booting in Safe Mode:

Enabling Safe Mode allows your computer to start with only essential system services and drivers. Proceed as follows:

• Restart your computer.
• When the “Getting Windows Ready” screen appears, press and hold the power button for a few seconds until your computer shuts down.
• Repeat this process two more times.
• On the third attempt, Windows will enter Automatic Repair mode.
• Go to Settings and select Recovery Option
• Under “Advanced options” and then “Startup Settings.”
• Click on “Restart” and choose “Safe Mode” from the list of options.

Method 7: Check for Windows Updates

Updating Windows to the latest version can resolve compatibility issues and fix bugs that might be responsible for the “Getting Windows Ready Stuck” problem. Perform the following steps to check for updates:

• Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
• Click on “Update & Security” and select “Windows Update.”
• Click on “Check for updates” and allow Windows to search for the latest updates.
• If updates are available, click on “Download and install” to initiate the installation process.

FAQs

Conclusion

In summary, this article gives a complete guide to fix the “Getting Windows Ready Stuck” problem. It covers the causes and provides step-by-step solutions. Readers will be ready to handle this common Windows update issue with both basic and advanced troubleshooting techniques.