I built a new computer using an old hard drive that I had. Initially, everything worked fine, and I passed it to my cousin. However, after a few weeks, the computer started crashing and displayed a Windows 10 auto repair screen when I got it back. This is puzzling because I specifically installed Windows 11, especially considering Windows 10's end of life. I've formatted all the drives and reinstalled Windows, but the Windows 10 repair screen still appears. Is it possible for the hard drive to retain a boot image even after a full format and the deletion of all partitions? The weird part is that I don't even have the HDD set as a boot option in the BIOS. Any insights on what could be happening?
4 Answers
Did you format the HDD using Windows Disk Management? It can sometimes have options that help prevent issues like this one if done correctly. Just ensuring that the format was thorough could help out here.
If all partitions were deleted, there shouldn't be any remnants of Windows 10. But it sounds strange, for sure. Have you checked the boot priority in the BIOS? Also, how did you install Windows 11—using Microsoft’s method or with Rufus?
I've tried both methods. My SSD with Windows 11 is set first in boot priority, and the HDD isn't even a boot option.
Whenever I do a fresh install on a used drive, I always start by using Diskpart to completely clean the drive. Maybe try looking up instructions on that, just to be sure.
I did use Diskpart to clear the partitions but will definitely look up more detailed instructions.
I went through a similar situation after buying a non-Microsoft Windows key. I managed to update it back to Windows 11 and haven't had issues since, so you might want to check your product key situation.
Yes, I used Disk Management specifically to ensure it formatted correctly.