PC problem after reset has been causing many issues.
PC problem after reset has been causing many issues.
Hi Guys, I need some assistance. My PC had problems after I reset Windows—it wouldn’t let me install apps like Chrome, Firefox, Slack, or Steam. I took it to a repair shop, but they fixed some issues, though I still face problems updating drivers and installing certain software. I’m not sure how to troubleshoot this. Now I can’t even install the latest Windows update, which is showing as Windows 11 version 24H2. I keep seeing error code 0xc1900223 when trying. Before resetting, I didn’t have any issues like this, so I think it’s not a hardware compatibility problem, but I might be wrong. Also, when I connect USB storage devices, they appear as unknown in the device manager and drivers can’t be installed. Please feel free to ask any questions—I’m really unsure what to do next.
These two statements appear to contradict each other. Could you clarify what you mean? Did something cause you to reset Windows?
I think it’s reasonable to say you should consider a clean installation.
The issue with the "restore" image on laptops and prebuilt OEM systems is that using it restores all previously installed bloatware as well. We’ve noticed many cases where brand new systems struggle because they carry large amounts of unnecessary software, making them seem infected with malware even though they contain only empty "optimization" and bundled programs.
Additionally, the "reset" feature often uses an image created long ago, which may no longer be compatible—such as when the BIOS has been updated to a version incompatible with the older Windows build or when files have become corrupted over time.
I always suggest performing a clean install whenever there’s uncertainty about the best path forward. This applies every time Microsoft releases a significant update.
Microsoft hasn’t consistently handled upgrades smoothly, often introducing new issues alongside old ones. Problems usually emerge after an update, making it risky to proceed without a fresh start.
Continuing to upgrade or reinstall factory bloatware simply repeats the same issues, returning you to the same starting point. I would never let a machine run beyond two major updates without a clean install of the latest Windows ISO, unless circumstances make it impractical.
If you decide to proceed with a clean install, follow these steps. The decision depends on your situation. In some cases, there are valid reasons—like software that can’t be reinstalled easily or a poor internet connection making downloads difficult.
The Pro and Enterprise editions do offer superior administration tools, which is the main reason I recommend them.
Windows 11 Clean install guide
I really value both of your responses. Before the original restore, the problems were just random crashes and slow performance on my PC. I used to perform a full reset every year without any issues. This time, however, all these problems occurred, so I took it to a repair shop which confirmed the fixes were applied twice but the issue remains unresolved.
I’m open to a full reinstall as you suggested, but I’m unable to connect any USB storage devices to my PC—they aren’t recognized. They appear in disk management but can’t be accessed through my system (they work on my laptop and Mac).
I found some online advice suggesting assigning a drive letter might help. When I tried that, I received an error message with the following text.
Use your laptop to generate Win11 installation media for a USB thumb drive. Then, refer to the Win11 instructions provided by both i and Darkbreeze. Installing Win11 involves hardware-level setup and doesn't account for Disk Management, which is part of the seemingly flawed OS you now possess.
Do you really want me to spend time posting for every thread where someone was saying the same thing as you and a clean install fixed them all? Because I’m willing if you wish. I just don’t think it’s really necessary, and there’s little value in it if you’re not ready to read through them too. It’s up to you. If you like, I will, and you’ll see that’s not just wasting your time.