Solving the Issue of a Windows PC Not Booting After Enabling Secure Boot

Updated by

Tracy King 

Written by

Linda 

Last updated on May 11, 2024

Secure Boot is a security feature found in modern personal computers that ensures only signed and verified operating system bootloaders are executed during the startup process. While this adds a layer of protection against unauthorized code execution, it can sometimes unintentionally become a headache for users, preventing their systems from successfully booting.

Please consider the user experience extracted from the Microsoft Community forum:

If you're also stuck with the "Windows PC won't start after enabling Secure Boot" issue, worry not. This article from Tool will serve as your guide through the maze of boot failures. By the end of this guide, you'll have the knowledge and tools to tackle the Secure Boot puzzle and restore your system.

9 Solution: Computer Won't Boot After Enabling Secure Boot

Here, we've listed 9 solutions that can help you fix the problem of your PC not booting after enabling Secure Boot. Read on to learn more.

1. Method 1: Disconnect External Drive
2. Method 2: Remove CMOS Battery
3. Method 3: Convert MBR Disk to GPT
4. Method 4: Update BIOS Version
5. Method 5: Update SSD Driver
6. Method 6: Repair with Third-Party Software
7. Method 7: Boot Manually from Bootx64.efi or Bootia32.efi
8. Method 8: Check for Windows Updates
9. Method 9: Perform a Clean Installation

Method 1: Disconnect the External Drive

While additional storage or backup is convenient, external drives can sometimes cause issues during booting. When connected, they might unintentionally interfere with the system's boot order, leading to startup problems after enabling Secure Boot on a Windows PC.

To resolve this, unplug all external drives from your computer. This removes any potential interference that might be preventing the system from starting up properly without external devices.

Give it a shot and see if this simple step solves your startup issue. Often, a quick disconnection could be the key to getting your Windows computer back on track. Once you've tried that, proceed to the next section.

Method 2: Remove the CMOS Battery

Now, let's explore another method to fix the issue with booting a Windows PC after enabling Secure Boot. Sometimes, the CMOS battery on the motherboard can cause boot issues due to incorrect Secure Boot state detection.

To proceed, you'll need to locate the CMOS battery on your motherboard. It should resemble a small coin. Before you begin, make sure your computer is turned off and disconnected from its power source. Gently remove the CMOS battery, wait 1-2 minutes, then reinsert it. This brief removal resets the motherboard's settings. Power on your computer随后, and see if the boot issue still occurs.

This approach helps ensure a smooth startup and provides a non-intrusive way to address possible configuration errors. If the issue persists, fear not – we will explore other solutions in subsequent sections.

Method 3: Convert an MBR Disk to GPT

The partitioning style of the disk is key to how the system boots. MBR (Master Boot Record) is associated with the traditional BIOS, while GPT (GUID Partition Table) works with the modern firmware interface, UEFI. Secure Boot typically requires a UEFI environment, and you may run into compatibility problems if your disk uses the older MBR style.

This technology aids in ensuring a smooth boot process and provides a non-intrusive way to address potential misconfigurations. First, check your disk partition style. If it's in the MBR format and you've already enabled Secure Boot, this could be the source of the issue. Switching to the GPT format allows for booting from an MBR device more seamlessly and with better compatibility.

If you don't want to reinstall Windows after converting MBR to GPT, you need a reliable partition manager. tools Partition Master Professional is a user-friendly tool that can make the conversion process much easier. With this software, you can save time and effort without having to reinstall Windows.

"Partition Master Professional comes with features specifically designed to ensure a smooth transition from MBR to GPT for disk management."

Step 1. Download and launch Partition Master on your computer.

< strong > Step 2. < /strong> Launch the disk converter, select "Convert MBR to GPT", and click "Next" to proceed.

Step 3. Select the MBR disk that you want to convert to GPT, and click "Convert" to start the conversion.

You can share this professional software with friends who need reliable tools to manage disks and partitions.

Method 4: Update the BIOS

The BIOS serves as a foundational bridge between the hardware and the operating system. An outdated BIOS may lack the support needed for secure boot, causing compatibility issues.

So, if you're experiencing boot-up issues, it might be time to consider a BIOS update.

Step 1: Search for and open "System Information." Here, you'll see your computer's BIOS version. You can also view this information during the initial startup process or within the BIOS/UEFI setup.

Step 2: Go to the website of your computer's manufacturer. Look for the Support or Downloads section.

Step 3. Find the correct BIOS update for your computer and download it.

Step 4. Make sure your computer is plugged in to a power source.

Step 5: Run the BIOS Update utility and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 6. Restart your computer. After the update is complete, check the BIOS version again to confirm that the update was successful.

Remember that updating the BIOS should be done with care and strictly following the manufacturer's instructions.

Please read:

Method 5: Update the SSD driver

Among the many components in a Windows PC, a seemingly minor one like your SSD (Solid State Drive) driver can play a crucial role. If you're experiencing booting issues after enabling Secure Boot, an outdated SSD driver could be the culprit. An outdated SSD driver can lead to compatibility issues, especially when using Secure Boot.

To ensure a smooth and secure boot, it's essential to keep your SSD driver up to date.

Step 1: Search and open "Device Manager" in the search bar. Locate Disk Drives, then identify your SSD's model number. You can also find this by checking your computer's specifications.

Step 2. Download the latest SSD driver for your specific model from the manufacturer's website.

Step 3: Before proceeding, back up any important data on the SSD.

Step 4: Run the downloaded driver file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the new driver. This may involve unzipping the file or completing an installation wizard.

Step 5. Restart your computer when the installation is done.

Updating the SSD driver is a proactive step that can resolve boot-up issues and contribute to the overall health and performance of your system.

Method 6: Repair with Third-Party Software

Damaged or virus-infected system files can cause trouble starting up. These files form the foundation of your operating system, so any abnormalities can lead to problems with the startup process.

This is where Partition Master Professional comes in. This versatile software not only aids in disk management but also features a Boot Repair function. Designed to fix corrupted system files, it aims to get your computer back to functioning normally.

Step 1. Connect the external drive/USB to your PC, launch AOMEI Partition Assistant, select "Make Bootable Media", and then click "Create Bootable Media".

Step 2: Choose the available USB drive or CD/DVD, then click Create. You can also burn the Windows ISO file to the media.

Create Bootable Disk Partition Wizard

Step 3. Connect the created boot drive to the new computer and press F2 or Del to enter BIOS. Set the WinPE boot drive as the boot disk, then exit by pressing F10.

Step 4. Restart your computer and enter the WinPE interface. Then, open Partition Master and click “Boot Repair” under “Toolbox”.

Step 5: Select the system you want to fix, then click on "Repair."

Step 6. Wait for the process to finish, and then click OK when you see a message that the startup repair was successful.

Please read:

Method 7: Boot from Bootx64.efi or Bootia32.efi Manually

EFI files, identified by the .efi extension, are essential to the UEFI boot process. They contain executable code needed to launch an operating system. When dealing with boot issues related to Secure Boot, manually selecting the appropriate EFI file can potentially interfere with the automated boot process.

Step 1. Press the BIOS hotkey when your computer starts to access its UEFI or BIOS settings. (It's usually F1, F2, F10, F12, Del, or Esc.)

Step 2. Go to the Boot Options section of your UEFI/BIOS settings. Manually select an EFI file to boot from. You might find them here:

• \EFI\BOOT\BOOTX64.EFI
• \EFI\BOOT\BOOTIA32.EFI

Step 3: Select either bootx64.efi or bootia32.efi, depending on your system. These files are usually located in the EFI partition of your system.

Step 4: After selecting the correct EFI file, save your changes and exit the UEFI/BIOS settings. Your system should attempt to boot using the manually selected EFI file.

By manually launching the bootx64.efi or bootia32.efi file, you take control of the boot process and bypass any obstacles that might be related to Secure Boot.

You can read this article for more detailed information about the differences between UEFI and BIOS.

Please provide the English content you want translated, and I'll do my best to translate it into Chinese.

UEFI vs BIOS: What's the Difference and How to Choose?

What is UEFI/BIOS? Do you know the differences between them? This article will provide comprehensive information to help you understand UEFI and BIOS. Read More >>

Method 8: Check for Windows Updates

Windows Updates are the first line of defense against various system errors and compatibility issues. These patches are designed to beef up security features and address issues and glitches that might affect your computer's smooth operation. For boot problems related to Secure Boot, updating your Windows system might be the solution.

Step 1: Open Settings and go to Windows Update.

Step 2: Under Windows Update, click Check for updates.

If any updates are available, choose Download and Install to start the update process.

Step 4. Restart your computer after the update installs successfully. This is necessary to make the changes take effect.

By keeping your Windows system up to date, you can help prevent Secure Boot compatibility issues and safeguard your computer from various security threats.

Method 9: Perform a clean install

A clean install will wipe out any accumulated junk, damaged files, or configuration errors in your system. It's like hitting the reset button on your entire operating system, giving you a fresh, seamless, and optimized experience. If you've tried everything else and the boot problem persists, a clean install may be your last resort.

Download the official Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft's website. Use it to create bootable installation media on a USB drive.

Insert the USB drive and restart your computer. When the Boot Menu appears, select the USB drive.

Step 2: Follow the on-screen instructions to perform a clean install.

Step 3. Delete any existing partitions and create new ones, and format the drive during the installation process.

Step 4: Finish the installation, reboot your computer, and enjoy your new Windows environment.

Step 5: Install necessary hardware drivers and check for Windows updates to keep your system current.

A clean install can be time-consuming, but it is usually an definitive solution to ongoing startup problems.

Why Can't Your Computer Boot After Enabling Secure Boot?

Understanding the root cause is essential. Let's explore why your computer might not start up properly in Secure Boot mode.

Feel free to share this article on social media to help more users in need find this useful information.

Conclusions

Addressing issues with a Windows PC that won't start after Secure Boot is activated requires technical know-how and practical experience. This comprehensive guide empowers users with the confidence to perform repairs, covering everything from fixing damaged peripherals to updating crucial components like SSD drivers and BIOS. Each method showcased is an essential part of system recovery. We recommend utilizing the Partition Master tool, with its advanced features that will streamline the process.

As you work through these, remember that you're not alone – share this article with others who are running into the same issues, and together we can make Secure Boot troubleshooting easier for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions about Computers Not Booting with Secure Boot Enabled

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions that might help address your concerns:

1. Why doesn't my computer support Secure Boot?

If the hardware is insufficient or doesn't support UEFI firmware (a prerequisite for Secure Boot), it might render the computer incompatible.

What happens if I enable Secure Boot?

Secure Boot enhances system security by allowing only signed and verified bootloaders to execute at startup, reducing the risk of unauthorized code execution.

What should I do if Secure Boot shows as enabled but not active?

If your system shows Secure Boot as enabled but not active, it's important to troubleshoot to ensure that your computer is taking full advantage of this security feature. Follow these steps to address the “enabled but not active” status:

• Ensure your computer has UEFI firmware.
• Install the latest BIOS/UEFI firmware update.
• Verify that your operating system bootloader is signed and unmodified.
• Reboot and check the Secure Boot status.
• Reset the keys in the UEFI/BIOS settings.