Getting Windows Ready is a message you see when your Windows computer is updating or getting ready to work. This happens when you start or shut down your computer. It is important to let this process finish because it helps your computer run smoothly.
If you turn off your computer too soon, it could cause problems. This guide will explain why this message might take a long time and show you ways to fix it if it gets stuck.
What is Getting Windows Ready?
Getting Windows Ready is a message that shows up when you turn on or shut down your Windows computer. It means that the system is updating or getting things ready to work properly.
This can take some time, especially if there are lots of updates. It’s important to wait and not turn off your computer during this process to avoid any problems.
Common Causes of the Getting Windows Ready
The following are Common Causes of the Getting Windows Ready:
Pending Updates: Sometimes, the system struggles to complete updates, causing it to loop.
Corrupted Update Files: Bad update files can interrupt the updating process, making it freeze or slow down.
Software Conflicts: Incompatible apps or drivers might cause the system to freeze while preparing.
Hardware Issues: Problems with hardware, like failing hard drives or RAM, can make the system hang during updates.
Low Disk Space: Not having enough space on the system drive can stop updates, leaving the computer stuck on the “Getting Windows Ready” screen.
How to Fix Getting Windows Ready Stuck?
Here are different ways to fix getting windows ready stuck:
Method 1: Wait a While
This is what Microsoft’s support team suggests. When your computer says “Getting Windows ready,” it could be downloading files or doing other tasks in the background.
This might take some time. If you want your computer to start up normally, try waiting first. It’s best to wait no more than 2-3 hours. If it’s still not working after that, consider trying some other solutions.
Method 2: How to Fix Startup Issues With the Repair Tool?
The Startup Repair Tool checks and fixes issues by analyzing startup logs.
Follow these steps once you’re in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE):
Step 1: Select Troubleshoot in WinRE.
Step 2: Choose Advanced Options.
Step 3: Pick Startup Repair from the menu.
Step 4: Choose an account that has admin rights.
Step 5: Type in your password.
Step 6: Press Continue to begin the repair.
Step 7: Allow time for the tool to work.
Step 8: Restart your PC after it’s done.
Method 3: . Turn Off Your PC and Reset It
Resetting your computer can clear the memory without losing any data. This helps fix issues and stops the “Getting Windows ready, Don’t turn off your computer” message.
Step 1. Turn off your PC, even if it’s still saying “getting ready.”
Step 2. Unplug all devices like USB drives, external disks, and headphones.
Step 3. Hold down the power button for 30 seconds to turn off your PC completely (make sure it stays off).
Step 4. Unplug the power cord from your PC.
Step 5. Remove the battery (only if you’re using a laptop and the battery is removable).
Step 6. Reinstall the battery and connect the power cord.
Step 7. Turn on your PC. If this fix worked, you shouldn’t see the “Getting Windows ready” screen this time.
Method 4: Delete Problematic Files
You may need to remove any troublesome system files if you are unable to resolve your Windows issue. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Restart your PC to see the Windows Boot Options page.
Step 2: Go to the Windows Boot Options menu and select “Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Command Prompt”.
Step 3: Type this command in Command Prompt: C: cd Windows\System32\LogFiles\Srt\SrtTrail.txt and press Enter.
Step 4: Look for error messages like “Boot critical file c:\windows\system32\drivers\vsock.sys is corrupt.” If you see one, use the Command Prompt to navigate to that file and type Del [file path] to delete it.
Method 5: Run a System File Check
If you’re comfortable using command prompts, you can perform a system file check. This tool, known as the System File Checker (SFC), scans and repairs corrupted system files on your device by replacing them with good copies. This method might solve some issues.
Warning: Using System File Checker and CHKDSK could lead to data loss. Make sure to evaluate the importance of your files before starting. Here’s how to use the System File Checker:
Step 1. Open Command Prompt from the Advanced Options in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
Step 2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter to start the scan.
Step 3. After the scan finishes, type chkdsk /f c: (change “c:” to your Windows drive if it’s different) and press Enter.
Step 4. Restart your computer after the scan is 100% complete.
Method 6: Reinstall Windows
If other methods haven’t fixed your problem, you might consider resetting your device. This is a big step, so it’s a good idea to talk to a professional first because it might affect your files. If you decide to reset your device, here’s how to do it:
Step 1. Go to the Troubleshoot menu and choose Reset This PC.
Step 2. Select either Keep My Files or Remove Everything.
Step 3. Choose Local Reinstall and follow the on-screen instructions.
Conclusion
Getting Windows Ready is normal when updating your Windows computer. If this message gets stuck, you can try simple steps like waiting or restarting your PC.
More complex fixes include using tools like the Startup Repair Tool or the System File Checker. If these don’t work, you might need to ask for professional help or consider reinstalling Windows to solve the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does “Getting Windows Ready” Mean?
This message appears when your Windows computer is installing updates, configuring settings, or preparing necessary files during startup or shutdown. It indicates that the system is making changes to improve performance and security.
What Happens if I Turn off my Computer while Getting Windows Ready?
Turning off your computer while it’s updating can lead to problems. The updates might not install properly, and you could need to restart the entire update process.
How Long Should “Getting Windows Ready” Take?
Typically, this should take a few minutes, but it can sometimes last longer depending on the size and number of updates being installed. If it takes longer than a couple of hours, there might be an issue.
Can I Turn Off my Computer During “Getting Windows Ready”?
It is not recommended to turn off your computer while this message is displayed. Interrupting the process can lead to incomplete updates, system errors, or potential data loss.
How Can I Avoid Problems with “Getting Windows Ready”?
Ensure your computer is connected to a stable power source during updates, avoid turning off the computer during the update process, and regularly check for and install updates to prevent large accumulations of necessary updates.
How to Fix Getting Windows Ready?
If your computer is stuck, follow these steps:
- Turn off your computer.
- Unplug it from the power source for ten seconds.
- Plug it back in.
- Turn on your computer again.
