“The computer restarted unexpectedly or encountered an unexpected error. Windows installation cannot proceed” loop

Troubleshooting the “Computer Restarted Unexpectedly or Encountered an Unexpected Error” Loop During Windows Installation

Encountering errors during a Windows installation can be frustrating, especially when dealing with persistent restart loops that hinder your progress. One common issue is the error message:

“The computer restarted unexpectedly or encountered an unexpected error. Windows installation cannot proceed.”

This message often appears during a factory reset or installation process, and understanding how to resolve it is crucial for restoring your system to proper working order. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of this error and provide a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively.

Understanding the Error Context

During Windows installation or recovery, this error typically indicates that the setup process has encountered an unexpected interruption, or that certain installation files or configurations are not aligned properly. It can also result from corrupted installation media, outdated BIOS settings, or incompatible hardware configurations.

Common Symptoms Include:

Repeated prompts to click “OK,” which restarts the process
A continuous restart loop without progress
Inability to complete the Windows installation or reset

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Perform a Clean Boot of the Installation Media
Verify that your Windows installation media (USB or DVD) is created correctly and is not corrupted.
Consider recreating the installation media using tools like the Windows Media Creation Tool to ensure integrity.
Check Your Hardware Compatibility
Confirm that your hardware meets the minimum requirements for the Windows version you’re installing.
Remove unnecessary peripherals and external devices to prevent conflicts.
Reset BIOS/UEFI Settings
Access the BIOS/UEFI firmware during startup (usually by pressing F2, F12, DEL, or ESC).
Reset BIOS/UEFI to default settings.
Enable or disable Secure Boot according to your needs (sometimes disabling Secure Boot helps resolve installation errors).
Ensure that the SATA controller mode (AHCI vs. RAID) is correctly configured based on your hardware.
Format the Drive Before Reinstallation
Boot from the Windows installation media.
When you reach the “Where do you want to install Windows?” screen, select the primary drive.
Delete existing partitions (be aware this deletes all data—ensure you have backups if needed).
Format the drive to create a clean installation environment.
Use DiskPart to Clean the Disk
At the command prompt (Shift + F10), type diskpart and press Enter.
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