Troubleshooting Windows 11 Upgrade Failures: Addressing the “SAFE_OS phase” Error During INSTALL_DRIVERS
Upgrading your operating system can be an exciting yet sometimes challenging process. If you’ve attempted to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 using the official installation ISO and encountered the error message:
“The installation failed in the SAFE_OS phase with an error during INSTALL_DRIVERS operation,” you’re not alone. This specific error indicates that the installation process faced difficulties when attempting to install hardware drivers during the crucial phase of the upgrade.
In this article, we’ll explore the common causes behind this error and provide professional, step-by-step guidance to help you successfully complete the Windows 11 upgrade while retaining all your files.
Understanding the Error
The error message signifies that the Windows installer encountered issues during the driver installation step within the SAFE_OS phase—a part of the installation process where the system prepares for a smooth upgrade by verifying hardware compatibility and installing necessary drivers. Failures here often stem from outdated or incompatible drivers, BIOS configurations, or external hardware conflicts.
Common Causes of the “SAFE_OS” Installation Error
- Outdated or incompatible device drivers
- BIOS firmware that may need updating
- External peripherals connected during installation, causing conflicts
- Corrupted system files or incomplete previous updates
- Storage device issues, such as problematic SSD/HDD drivers
Recommended Troubleshooting Steps
1. Update Hardware Drivers
Ensure all device drivers are current, particularly graphics, network, and storage drivers. Visit your hardware manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers compatible with Windows 10 or Windows 11. For this purpose:
- Use Device Manager to identify outdated drivers
- Utilize Driver Update Tools from reputable sources, if necessary
- Temporarily uninstall or disable third-party drivers that might be problematic
2. Update BIOS Firmware
An outdated BIOS can hinder the upgrade process. Check your motherboard or PC manufacturer’s website for BIOS updates. Follow their instructions precisely to update the firmware:
- Turn off your PC
- Access BIOS setup during startup (commonly by pressing F2, DEL, or ESC)
- Use the manufacturer’s update utility or BIOS file to flash the firmware safely
3. Disconnect External Devices
Remove all unnecessary peripherals—external drives, printers, cameras, USB hubs—before initiating the upgrade. External devices can sometimes interfere with driver installation or the upgrade process
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