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Startup issues (small circle goes around and around)

Ed Johnson 0 Reputation points
2026-02-09T12:54:02.1766667+00:00

At start up (Dell w/ Windows 11), the small circle continues going around but system does not start. I've tried repair multiple times and then F12 on boot up and after doing a number of F12 choices the computer finally starts up with my apps showing. But when I shut-down and restart, same problem

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Recovery and backup
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  1. David-M 106.8K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-02-09T13:31:18.7266667+00:00

    Hi. I'm David, and I'm happy to help you.

    As far as I know, the menu that opens when you press F12 on a Dell doesn't take you to WinRE (Windows Recovery Environment), where you have a better chance of solving the problem. Therefore, try to repair the Windows startup by following the steps below.

    In your case, to access the WinRE, you will repeatedly turn your device off and then on:

    1. Hold down the power button for 10 seconds to turn off your device (If the device is ON when starting the procedure);
    2. Press the power button again to turn on your device;
    3. On the first sign that Windows has started (for example, some devices display the manufacturer's logo with spinning dots when starting), hold down the power button for 10 seconds to turn off your device;
    4. Press the power button again to turn on your device;
    5. When Windows starts, hold down the power button for 10 seconds to turn off your device;
    6. Press the power button again to turn on your device. Windows should display the "Automatic Repair" screen.
    7. Then, select "Advanced options" to enter WinRE.

    Article used as a reference for this procedure: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-recovery-environment-0eb14733-6301-41cb-8d26-06a12b42770b

    • On the Choose an option screen, select "Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair / Quick machine recovery".

    If it persists, use System Restore to get Windows to the point where it was working.

    Start your computer again in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

    • On the Choose an option screen, select "Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore" and follow the on-screen instructions.

    If you don't have restore points, try starting Windows in Safe Mode with Networking.

    Start your computer again in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

    • On the Choose an option screen, select "Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart";
    • After your device restarts, you'll see a list of options. Press 5 or F5 to start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking.

    When starting Windows in Safe Mode, I suggest that you make a backup of your data.

    Open Device Manager and make sure all drivers are up to date.

    Then restart your PC and see if it starts normally.

    If the problem persists, please let me know.

    Feel free to ask back any questions.

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  2. Q&A Assist
    2026-02-09T12:54:13.08+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    It sounds like your Dell computer is experiencing issues during the startup process, where it gets stuck in a loop with the loading circle. This can be related to several factors, including problems with the Boot Configuration Data (BCD), corrupted boot files, or issues with the operating system itself.

    Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot this issue:

    1. Startup Repair: Since you've mentioned trying repairs, ensure that you're using the Startup Repair tool effectively. You can access this by booting from Windows installation media, selecting Repair your computer, then Troubleshoot, and finally Startup Repair. This tool can automatically fix many common startup problems.
    2. Check Boot Configuration: If the Startup Repair doesn't resolve the issue, you may need to check the Boot Configuration Data. Booting into the command prompt from the recovery environment can allow you to run commands to rebuild the BCD.
    3. Safe Mode: Try booting into Safe Mode. This can help you determine if the issue is caused by third-party software or drivers. You can access Safe Mode through the recovery options as well.
    4. System Restore: If you have restore points set up, you can try performing a system restore to revert your system to a previous state where it was functioning correctly.
    5. Hardware Check: Sometimes, hardware issues can also cause startup problems. Make sure that all hardware components are properly connected and functioning.

    If the problem persists after trying these methods, you may need to consider more advanced troubleshooting or consult with a professional.

    References:

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