How to fix a computer that won't start
Applies to Windows XP
In this page
You log on by clicking your user accounts, but then you can't open any programs
Your computer displays the Windows logo, but fails before you can log on
You see "Non-system disk or disk error," or a similar message
Your computer stops immediately after you turn it on or displays nothing on your monitor
Your computer does not turn on
You need to perform a repair installation of Windows XP
A computer that won't start is frustrating, but the problem is often easy to fix. The steps you take to troubleshoot the problem depend on your symptoms. Click the statement that best describes your problem to find a possible solution:
Show all
You log on by clicking your user accounts, but then you can't open any programs
Your computer displays the Windows logo, but fails before you can log on
You see "Non-system disk or disk error," or a similar message
Your computer stops immediately after you turn it on or displays nothing on your monitor
Your computer does not turn on
You need to perform a repair installation of Windows XP