How To Fix Windows Installation Errors Using Recovery Drive

If you’re experiencing installation errors during the Windows setup process, there are several steps you can take to try and fix them using a recovery drive. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Please note: These steps assume that your computer is properly connected to the internet and has at least 2GB of free disk space.

Method 1: Use the built-in Windows Recovery Environment (RE) from a USB drive

• Restart your computer while it’s currently in the installation process.

• Immediately press F11 or F12 to open the Advanced Boot Options menu, then select Safe Mode with Networking.

• Insert the recovery drive into your computer and enter the BIOS settings by pressing Del or F2 during bootup.

• Set the USB drive as the first boot device and save changes.

• The Recovery Environment should now be loaded from the USB drive.

• In the Command Prompt, type chkdsk /f to check for disk errors.

• If there are any issues, use the command chkdsk /s to scan for and fix errors on the problematic drive.

Method 2: Use a third-party data recovery software

• Download a reputable data recovery software (e.g., EaseUS Todo Backup, Macrium Reflect Rescue, or Recuva) from their official websites.

• Save the extracted files to the recovery drive.

• Run the software and select the bootable USB drive as the source.

• Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your computer for errors.

Method 3: Reinstall Windows using a USB drive

• Insert the recovery drive into your computer.

• Restart your computer while it’s currently in the installation process.

• Press F11 or F12 to open the Advanced Boot Options menu, then select Safe Mode with Networking.

• If you’re using a 64-bit version of Windows, press Ctrl + Shift + B (or Alt + F8) during bootup to enter Recovery Environment mode.

• In the Command Prompt, type rstrui.exe and follow the on-screen instructions.

Method 4: Use System Restore

• Go to Control Panel > System and Security > System > System Protection.

• Click on “System Restore” in the right-hand panel.

• Choose a restore point that is closer to your current installation date and time.

• Follow the on-screen instructions to start the system restore process.

Method 5: Boot from the Installation Media (if you created one)

• Insert the Windows 10 or Windows 11 installation media into your computer.

• Restart your computer while it’s currently in the installation process.

• The installation media should load and install Windows on your computer.

Remember to back up your files before attempting any of these methods, especially if you’re trying to fix a specific error that requires specialized software or procedures.