Windows 8 Bible

Dealing with Devices that Prevent Windows 8 from Starting

There may be times when a newly installed hardware device prevents Windows 8 from starting properly. In most cases, such devices will be disabled automatically so that Windows 8 can start. If it works that way, you can typically follow the steps described in the preceding section to try and get the updated driver online.

If Windows 8 cannot disable or work with the new device, you may be able to start in Safe Mode with Networking and either get updated drivers there or disable the device manually. You also will need to log in with the Administrator account.

Tip

Windows 8 has a new way to start in Safe Mode. To learn how to boot your computer in Safe Mode, see Chapter 8 of this book.

When you’re at the desktop, follow the procedure described under “Updating Drivers” to search for updated drivers. If you cannot find updated drivers, your best bet might be to disable the device by right-clicking its name and choosing Disable from the shortcut menu. Close Device Manager and restart the computer again normally.

If you had to disable the device, it won’t work when you restart the computer normally. But at least you can get Windows 8 started and try to find an updated driver through the product manufacturer’s website.