Fix Computer Stuck on Preparing to Configure Windows 10/11

Menzi Sumile

If your computer is stuck on the “Preparing to Configure Windows” screen, it can be frustrating and disrupt productivity. This issue often occurs during updates or when the system attempts to apply changes. Fortunately, several troubleshooting steps can help resolve this problem and restore your PC’s functionality.

Why Does This Issue Occur?

Fix Computer Stuck on Preparing to Configure Windows

This error commonly arises due to incomplete updates, corrupted system files, or third-party software conflicts. Addressing the root cause can prevent the issue from recurring.

Solutions to Fix “Preparing to Configure Windows” Issue

Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches that cause the system to freeze on this screen.

  1. Press and hold the Power button until your computer turns off.
  2. Please wait for a few seconds and then power it back on.
  3. Check if the issue persists.

Perform a Hard Reboot

A hard reboot forces the system to shut down and clears temporary system files that might be causing the problem.

  1. Disconnect all external devices, including USB drives and peripherals.
  2. Press and hold the Power button for 10-15 seconds.
  3. Plug the computer back in and restart it.

Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with minimal drivers and services, allowing you to troubleshoot without interference from third-party software.

  1. Restart your PC and press F8 (or Shift + Restart) during startup.
  2. Select Safe Mode from the options.
  3. Once in Safe Mode, try restarting your PC to see if the issue is resolved.

Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

The built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter can identify and fix problems related to updates.

other troubleshooter: Computer Stuck on Preparing to Configure Windows 10/11
  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Navigate to System> Troubleshoot > Additional Troubleshooters.
  3. Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your PC.

Repair Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files can cause updates to fail. Running system repair tools can help resolve this issue.

Use SFC (System File Checker):

  1. Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any recommendations.

Use DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management):

  1. Open Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:
  3. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  4. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  5. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  6. Restart your PC.

Uninstall Problematic Updates

If the issue started after a recent update, uninstalling the problematic update might resolve it.

uninstall update: Computer Stuck on Preparing to Configure Windows 10/11
  1. Open Settings and go to Update & Security or Windows Update
  2. Select View Update History > Uninstall updates.
  3. Locate the recent update, right-click, and select Uninstall.

Perform a System Restore

System Restore allows you to revert your system to a previous state before the issue occurred.

  1. Press Win + R, type rstrui, and press Enter.
  2. Choose a restore point created before the problem starts.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Update or Reinstall Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can interfere with updates. Updating or reinstalling drivers can help.

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Right-click on problematic drivers and select Update driver.
  3. If updates fail, uninstall the driver and restart your PC to reinstall it automatically.

Consider using a reliable third-party tool like Fortect to streamline the process of identifying and updating outdated or corrupted drivers. Fortect is a comprehensive PC optimization software equipped with a built-in driver updater.

Fortect driver updater: Computer Stuck on Preparing to Configure Windows 10/11

Installing the premium version lets you perform a quick scan to detect problematic drivers and update them securely in just a few minutes. This can address issues such as the “Computer Stuck on Preparing to Configure” error.

If you’re not ready to commit to the premium version, you can start with the free trial, which allows you to easily update selected drivers manually.

Download and install Fortect today!

Reset Windows Updates

Resetting the Windows Update components can fix stuck updates.

  1. Open Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:
  3. net stop wuauserv
  4. net stop cryptSvc
  5. net stop bits
  6. net stop msiserver
  7. ren C:\\Windows\\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
  8. ren C:\\Windows\\System32\\catroot2 catroot2.old
  9. net start wuauserv
  10. net start cryptSvc
  11. net start bits
  12. net start msiserver
  13. Restart your computer.

Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with only essential services, helping identify third-party software conflicts.

msconfig: Computer Stuck on Preparing to Configure Windows 10/11
  1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. Go to the Services tab and check Hide all Microsoft services.
  3. Click Disable All and then go to the Startup tab.
  4. Open Task Manager, turn off all startup items and restart your PC.

Reset Your PC

If all else fails, resetting your PC can resolve persistent issues while retaining your files.

reset this pc: Computer Stuck on Preparing to Configure Windows 10/11
  1. Open Settings and go to System > Recovery.
  2. Under Reset this PC, click Get Started.
  3. Choose to Keep my files and follow the instructions.

Preventing the Issue in the Future

  • Keep Windows updated regularly.
  • Avoid force shutting down during updates.
  • Use reliable antivirus software to protect against malware.
  • Periodically check for driver updates.

Following these steps, you can fix and prevent the “Preparing to Configure Windows” issue on Windows 10/11. If problems persist, consider seeking professional assistance.

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About the author
Menzi Sumile
About the author | Menzi Sumile
Menzi is a skilled content writer with a passion for technology and cybersecurity, creating insightful and engaging pieces that resonate with readers.

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