5.4. Troubleshooting Boot Issues

If Windows 7 won't start, it's not very useful. Thankfully, you have several tools you can use to help troubleshoot different boot issues. You've already read about the most valuable tool, Startup Repair in the WinRE. However, you do have some other tools available.

5.4.1. Understanding the Boot Phases

When troubleshooting boot issues, it's important to understand the different phases of the boot process for Windows 7. With an understanding of the different phases, you'll have a better idea of what method to use to resolve the problem. The different phases are

  • Power On Self Test

  • Initial startup phase

  • Windows Boot Manager phase

  • Windows Boot Loader phase

  • Kernel-loading phase

  • Logon phase

5.4.1.1. Power On Self Test ...

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