If your laptop displays “Getting Windows ready, Don’t turn off your computer,” the message alone does not prove that Windows is frozen. Microsoft says update time varies with connection speed, network settings, and update size, and does not give a universal wait time for this particular screen. Note how long it has been displayed and whether the screen changes or the laptop restarts; choose the next step based on whether Windows eventually reaches sign-in.
First, check whether the update is still progressing
Do not treat the wording on screen as a diagnosis. Microsoft explains that download and installation time depends on connection speed, network settings, and update size. Its guidance does not establish a fixed number of minutes or hours after which this exact screen should be considered frozen.
Keep track of how long the message has appeared, whether any progress indicator changes, and whether the laptop restarts. If the display is changing or the computer is restarting as part of the update, observe what happens before interrupting it. If Windows eventually reaches sign-in, use the Windows-starts steps below. If it does not start, move to Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
If Windows reaches sign-in
Start with Windows Update’s built-in troubleshooting rather than jumping straight to reset or reinstall. Microsoft’s Windows Update troubleshooting guidance recommends running the Windows Update troubleshooter and checking for updates again when an update appears stuck at a percentage.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
- Open Windows Update and run the troubleshooter. The exact location and labels can vary between Windows 10 and Windows 11; follow the options shown on your version.
- Check for updates again and see whether Windows completes installation.
- If update problems persist and system-file repair is appropriate, use Microsoft’s documented DISM and SFC steps from an elevated command prompt. Enter each command exactly as shown, in this order:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth, thensfc /scannow.
These are troubleshooting options, not proof of what caused the screen to appear. If you are unsure about command-line repair, stay with the troubleshooter or seek help for your Windows version and device.
If Windows does not start: open WinRE
WinRE is Windows’ recovery environment for devices that cannot start normally. It may appear automatically after repeated unsuccessful starts. Other supported ways to reach it include Advanced startup or Shift+Restart when available, a recovery drive, or Windows installation media. The available route depends on your device and Windows version; Microsoft explains the options in its WinRE guide.
Rank #2
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
- 4GB DDR4 System Memory; 128GB Solid State Drive
- 11.6" HD (1366 x 768) Multi-Touch Display
- Combo headphone/microphone jack - Noble Wedge Lock slot - HDMI; 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1
- Windows 11 Pro
If device encryption is enabled, a recovery action may ask for the BitLocker recovery key. Have it available before proceeding. In WinRE, begin with the less disruptive startup option:
- Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
- Follow the on-screen prompts and let Startup Repair diagnose and attempt to fix common startup problems.
- Restart and check whether Windows reaches sign-in.
Startup Repair is not a guaranteed fix for an update stall; it is intended to address common problems that prevent Windows from starting. See Microsoft’s Startup Repair guidance for details.
Rank #3
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
If the problem began after a recent update
If Windows still will not start and the trouble began immediately after an update, WinRE may let you remove that update. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates, then follow the available choices. Microsoft notes that some updates cannot be uninstalled, so this is a conditional recovery step, not a fix to try in every case. Its update removal instructions describe the route and limitations.
Use Safe Mode to narrow down startup problems
If you can reach WinRE but still need to investigate why startup fails, choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings, then restart and select Safe Mode when offered. Safe Mode starts Windows with essential services and drivers. If the problem does not recur there, default settings, basic drivers, and services can be ruled out as possible causes; that result does not by itself identify the exact fault. Microsoft documents the choices in its Windows startup settings guide.
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
Keep reset and reinstall as later options
Microsoft recommends starting with less disruptive recovery choices because some options can cause data loss. A reset may offer a choice to keep personal files or remove everything, but read the exact prompts for your version and preserve a backup where possible before continuing. Do not assume a reset is risk-free.
Reinstalling Windows from installation media removes everything from the device. Installation media created on another working PC can also help reach WinRE if the affected laptop will not start and other recovery media are unavailable; the USB drive is an optional advanced recovery aid, not a repair by itself. Manufacturer recovery media may be a better fit for some laptops because it can include device-specific drivers and factory applications. Microsoft covers these trade-offs in its Windows recovery options guide. Check your laptop maker’s instructions for model-specific recovery steps.
Best Value
- WINDOWS 11 | STABLE PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 system, this laptop delivers stable performance for everyday computing tasks. It supports web browsing, online learning, document editing, email communication, and basic office work with optimized power efficiency, providing a practical and reliable experience for essential daily use for daily use.
- 15.6” FHD IPS DISPLAY: Features a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display with narrow bezels, offering wider viewing angles and clearer image details compared to standard panels. The improved screen-to-body ratio enhances visual experience for study, reading, document work, and video playback, making it suitable for both productivity and entertainment use.
- 4GB DDR4 + 128GB eMMC STORAGE: Equipped with 4GB DDR4 memory and 128GB eMMC storage for everyday basics such as browsing, documents, email, and online learning platforms. The built-in TF card slot supports storage expansion up to 1TB, giving you more flexibility for files, photos, videos, and daily documents. TF card not included.
- CONNECTIVITY & PORTS: Includes 1× TF card slot, 2× USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, and 2× full-featured Type-C ports (USB 3.2 Gen1). The Type-C ports support data transfer, charging, and video output, enabling flexible connection with external devices such as monitors, storage, and peripherals for daily work and study use.
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN | ONLINE COMMUNICATION: Designed with a slim, portable profile, this laptop is easy to carry for school, commuting, and travel. A built-in 1MP front camera supports online classes, video meetings, remote communication, and everyday conferencing. The 3300mAh battery works with the low-power system design to support practical daily use, while thermal optimization helps maintain quieter operation during extended tasks.
Windows 10 and Windows 11 support context
The Microsoft recovery and troubleshooting pages linked above cover Windows 10 and Windows 11. Microsoft states that Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. The appropriate recovery choices and displayed labels still depend on your Windows version, laptop model, encryption status, and available backups.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
