Question:

“I recently attempted a full system reset on my Lenovo computer by navigating to ‘Update and Security > Recovery’ and selecting ‘Remove everything’ to reinstall Windows. However, post-reset, the system fails to boot past the Lenovo splash screen. Despite attempting a fresh Windows 10 installation via a USB drive, as suggested by acquaintances and online tutorials, the screen turns black with no progress even after an extended period. My tech-savvy sister also examined the issue but to no avail. Before considering professional repair services, which I wish to avoid due to financial constraints, I seek expert advice on this matter. Could you provide guidance on how to resolve this boot-up issue?”

Answer:

Encountering boot-up issues following a system reset can be quite distressing, especially when the screen remains unresponsive after several troubleshooting attempts. If your Lenovo computer is stuck on the splash screen after a ‘Remove everything’ reset, and a fresh Windows 10 installation via USB didn’t resolve the issue, here are some expert steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix the problem:

: Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings by pressing the appropriate key (often F1, F2, F10, DEL, or ESC) during the boot-up process. Ensure that the boot order prioritizes the USB drive from which you’re attempting to reinstall Windows.

2.

Secure Boot and Legacy Mode

: Within the BIOS/UEFI settings, check if ‘Secure Boot’ is enabled. If it is, disable it temporarily as it might prevent booting from the USB drive. Additionally, toggle between ‘UEFI’ and ‘Legacy’ boot modes to see if one allows the system to recognize the bootable USB.

3.

USB Drive Format and Creation

: Verify that the USB drive is formatted correctly (typically FAT32 for UEFI systems) and that the Windows 10 installation media was created properly. Tools like ‘Rufus’ or the official ‘Windows Media Creation Tool’ can ensure the USB drive is set up correctly.

4.

Hardware Diagnostics

: Run a hardware diagnostic if your Lenovo has that option built-in (accessible through a special key combination at startup). This can help identify any hardware failures that might be causing the boot issue.

5.

Minimal Boot

: Try a minimal boot procedure by disconnecting all peripherals except for the essentials (monitor, keyboard, mouse). Sometimes, external devices can cause conflicts during the boot process.

6.

RAM Check

: If possible, test the RAM modules by removing them one by one and attempting to boot. A faulty RAM module can prevent the system from booting correctly.

7.

Internal Connections

: Open the computer case (if it’s not a laptop) and check all internal connections, including power cables and data cables, to ensure they are secure.

8.

Hard Drive/SSD Health

: Use a SATA-to-USB converter to connect the internal hard drive or SSD to another computer and check its health using disk utility software. A failing drive could be the root of the boot-up issues.

9.

Consult Forums and Support

: Visit tech forums specific to Lenovo or general computer help forums. Often, users may have encountered similar issues and can offer solutions that worked for them.

10.

Professional Diagnosis

: If all else fails, a professional diagnosis might be necessary. Some computer repair shops offer free diagnostics, which could be beneficial if you’re trying to avoid high costs.

Remember, while it’s tempting to fix the issue yourself, if you’re not comfortable performing some of these steps, especially those involving hardware, it’s best to consult with a professional to avoid further damage to your computer.

Before sending your computer in for repairs, exhaust all software-related troubleshooting steps. If the issue persists, it might indeed be a hardware problem, but getting a professional opinion can help you make an informed decision about whether to repair or eventually replace your decade-old machine.

Good luck, and I hope one of these steps helps you get your computer up and running again! 🛠️