After upgrading the CPU, the system fails to start Windows.
After upgrading the CPU, the system fails to start Windows.
I updated my PC last night, swapping the CX450M to a CX650F and the i5 8400k to an i5 9600k. The PSU is functioning properly, and the system started after I connected the graphics power cable correctly. At first, the screen complained about linking the card, so I removed it and reinserted it. After that, it booted fine (though I wasn’t sure). The AMT display appeared, disappeared, then the Windows loading screen showed up, followed by a spinning circle that froze forever. Using F4 or F8 also caused the same issue—spinning twice before freezing. The BIOS detected the CPU and read its clock speed. I tried several fixes: re-seating power cables, reseating RAM, holding F4/F8 during boot, replacing the CMOS battery, and checking if a BIOS update was needed. The 9600k model should have been available after purchasing the Gigabyte Z370P D3 board.
It might be the reason behind the issue. The quickest fix could be reinstalling Windows (only if safe mode isn’t an option). If that doesn’t help, try reinserting the new CPU and see if the problem resolves.
Before enhancing the CPU, it's smart to confirm with the manufacturer whether a BIOS update is required for proper operation. However, since your setup is already attempting to boot into Windows, this shouldn't pose an issue. As previously mentioned, I believe the issue lies with drivers. In the long term, reinstalling Windows might be more efficient. Alternatively, you could try booting in safe mode and removing drivers to troubleshoot—though this may take longer and could introduce frustrating bugs or glitches if not handled carefully.