Windows 11 repeatedly starts over due to hardware or software issues.
Windows 11 repeatedly starts over due to hardware or software issues.
Hey everyone, I'm really struggling right now. I just upgraded my PC and kept using the old 2.5GB SSD as the boot drive for Windows. I wanted to switch the new M.2 SSD to be the boot device, so I read that a clean install via USB would be best. The M.2 slot was completely empty, and I selected it to install Windows. But after finishing the installation at 100%, my PC restarted and went straight back to the login screen, then to language selection, and finally to the install location. It looks like some things installed, but I'm not sure what exactly happened. Additionally, I can't even open Windows from the old SSD anymore—it just keeps restarting after the motherboard logo appears. I've tried removing and reinstalling the media tool from my USB drive and using the Startup Repair tool again, but it still doesn't work. Anyone have any ideas or solutions for this? Thanks in advance!
Keep the 2.5" SSD inside the PC while removing the SATA data cable. Proceed with installing Windows onto the M.2 slot; this will make the M.2 act as the C drive. Once the installation completes successfully, power off and reconnect the data cable. It should appear as drive D or another letter based on your setup (such as a DVD ROM).
It seems the issue remains unresolved. The problem might stem from not unplugging the 2.5m SSD during a clean installation on my M.2 drive. I've been searching for fixes but haven't found success.
Interruptions in internet access may lead to Windows installation issues. Search for "How to Install Windows 11 without Internet" or use a Windows ISO file with Rufus to build an installation from a USB drive.
I've also used the Windows ISO file and tried various fixes like manual booting, partitioning in CMD, and BIOS updates. Still stuck at the same issue. The installation completes up to about 79% and then restarts, looping back to the first step. It seems something might be wrong with the M.2 SSD or the USB flash drive—I don't know. I've ordered a new M.2 and USB drive and plan to try again tomorrow. Likely the next step will involve a different motherboard. It's odd because my old 2.5GB SSD worked fine with Windows before, but now it doesn't boot at all.