Windows 11 Freezes Booting: Solution in Safe Mode and Cloning
If you've recently made a fresh installation of Windows 11 on a new SSD image from an old notebook, but it freezes during boot-up in the normal and safe mode, this article is for you. Here, we will discuss the possible solutions, including enabling boot logging and cloning the Windows 11 installation.
1. Enabling Boot Logging
Boot logging can help identify the issue causing the freeze during boot-up. To enable boot logging, follow these steps:
- Restart your computer and press F8 before the Windows logo appears.
- Select
Advanced Boot Optionsusing the arrow keys and press Enter. - Choose
Enable Boot Loggingand press Enter. - Windows will start normally. After the boot process is complete, look for the
ntbtlog.txtfile in theC:\Windowsdirectory. This file contains information about the drivers and services loaded during boot-up. Analyze this log to find any suspicious entries or errors.
2. Cloning Windows 11 Installation
If enabling boot logging doesn't solve the issue, you can try cloning the Windows 11 installation to the new SSD. Cloning involves creating an exact copy of the Windows 11 installation, including the operating system, applications, settings, and user data. This can help eliminate potential hardware compatibility issues and preserve your existing setup.
To clone Windows 11 to the new SSD, you will need a cloning software. Some popular options include EaseUS Partition Master, Macrium Reflect Free, and Acronis Disk Director. Follow the instructions provided by the cloning software to create an exact copy of the Windows 11 installation on the new SSD.
Additional Troubleshooting Steps
If cloning the Windows 11 installation doesn't solve the issue, consider the following:
- Check for any updated drivers or firmware for your new SSD and motherboard.
- Ensure that the SATA mode in the BIOS is set to AHCI.
- Try disabling the fast startup feature in Windows 11.
- Check for any hardware conflicts or issues with the SSD or motherboard.
References
By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve the issue of Windows 11 freezing during boot-up on your new SSD. If the issue persists, consider seeking further assistance from a professional or contacting the manufacturer of your SSD or motherboard for additional support.