Blue screen on Windows indicates a critical error.
Blue screen on Windows indicates a critical error.
I think it's time to reinstall Windows completely. This should help you regain your progress. For the future, if something like this happens again and you have many files to back up, consider using a Linux live USB to access them on another device or hard drive. Right now, just install Windows—even if safe mode is disabled.
Initially understand that removing programs won't really boost performance. Restoring Windows isn't the answer either. You're free to keep as many applications as you wish—what matters is verifying if each one is essential for system operations. Uninstalling can actually contribute to sluggishness. Let's clarify what a slow system entails. Does it only affect boot time and web browser launches, or does it impact how quickly you can access files without extra software? If you receive any documentation, I generally handle it smoothly, since I have plenty of helpful tools at my disposal—this is what a computer should be designed for. Prioritizing boot speed often leads people to obsess over opening files, such as when they rely on just one video player and struggle with others lacking alternatives. To achieve a faster machine, consider eliminating unnecessary registry entries, clearing the hard drive, reinstalling Windows, or removing unused programs. Try adding a few video players and see which performs best (leave others aside for later use). Slow internet browsing? Experiment with multiple browsers to find the most suitable option for your setup. The same applies to MP3 players, FTP utilities, file managers, image viewers, converters, PDF readers—sometimes a simple tool is enough, other times you need a fully configurable solution. Occasionally, a faster hard drive is all it takes, because not every speed boost comes from keyboard tricks or shortcuts.
Removing unnecessary software can boost your system performance, particularly when it handles constant background operations. Her CPU is fully utilized without significant tasks. It’s an Intel Celeron, yet that’s why I forced her to delete programs linked to background services.
Congratulations then. For next time, turn off unnecessary software at startup/services/task scheduler; this might help you get Windows running again. Sometimes the "bloatware" ties to drivers and is required for proper function. A laptop with a Celeron processor tends to be slow. It works best only with an SSD and without third-party audio/video tools.
She brought it to Best Buy, and they mentioned the window was removed during the update.