Computer stuck on spinning dots at startup and won't boot
The spinning dots mean Windows is loading but something is broken. Forcing two shutdowns in a row triggers Windows Automatic Repair, which fixes this problem without losing your files.
The spinning dots appear while Windows loads essential files before showing the login screen. If it gets stuck, a corrupted file or failed update stopped the process. Windows has a built-in repair tool that you trigger by shutting down twice in a row. This works without losing your files.
- ✓Wait 20 minutes the first time — sometimes a large Windows Update takes longer than expected
- ✓Have the power button ready to hold down for forced shutdowns
- ✓Understand that you need two forced shutdowns in a row to trigger the repair tool
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step, just tap, no typing needed.
Skip, I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Forcing shutdown only once — you need two shutdowns in a row to trigger the repair tool
- Clicking Reset this PC without trying Startup Repair first — Reset erases everything; Repair saves your files
- Unplugging the computer during the repair process — let it complete even if it takes a long time
Signs you need professional help
- Startup Repair says it can't fix the problem, or if no System Restore points exist from before the problem started. Give us a call and we'll recover your system and files safely.
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