Setting up automatic repair – Windows fails to start.
Setting up automatic repair – Windows fails to start.
I powered down my rig one day and the next morning it displayed the ASUS screen with "Preparing Automatic Repair." Then it transitioned to a blue screen offering various settings. Windows won’t load at all. I’ve checked several Advanced Options, but entering my password for a reset failed. Booting from a USB with a fresh install didn’t help either, as it reported an inability to repair. I also tried overriding the DOHC overclock, re-seating RAM, and using Command Prompt commands from multiple guides—still no results. I’m planning to reinstall Windows completely, but I’m unsure how to retrieve my product key from the previous setup. My build date was early 2020. What BIOS version am I running? Please advise on a solution. I miss having a working computer.
You're only 90% sure about this, but it seems your Windows key is tied to the motherboard itself—so you shouldn't need to reinstall or reactivate it again on that board. (Other forum members: please agree if you think right and let me know if you disagree.)
Yes, you would choose the option indicating you don't have a key during the installation process.
I'll observe for additional responses before attempting the update, thank you for your support!
I cleared all additional storage devices and restarted the system. Initially, the screen displayed "Diagnosing PC" followed by messages about checking discs for errors, which took several hours. After a short wait, the PC rebooted and everything functioned properly. I plan to reconnect the drives individually to identify any problems.