Lost my os and pc wont boot from usb-c

[moto0103]

I was trying to install Linux on my PC, which originally had Windows 11. The USB drive with the Linux installation was detected in the boot menu, and everything was running fine until it crashed midway through the installation process. Now, my PC won't detect the USB drive anymore, and I don't have an operating system. I suspect that using a USB-A port might resolve the issue, but it's really annoying. Does anyone have any ideas or suggestions on how I can fix this?

[Rachel571]

Hi @moto0103 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

It sounds like you’ve run into a frustrating issue after trying to install Linux on your PC. Since your PC is no longer detecting the USB drive and you’ve lost your operating system, there are a few steps you can take to try and resolve this and get your system back up and running.

1. Check USB-C Port Configuration in BIOS/UEFI

Sometimes, USB-C ports are not configured to boot by default, or they may be disabled in the BIOS/UEFI settings. You should check your system’s BIOS settings to ensure that USB booting is enabled, especially for the USB-C port. Here’s how:

• Enter BIOS/UEFI: Restart your PC and press the F2, F10, Esc, or Del key (depending on your manufacturer) to enter the BIOS setup during boot.
• Look for USB-related settings: In BIOS/UEFI, check for the following:
  • USB Boot: Ensure that USB booting is enabled.
  • Boot Order: Make sure that USB devices are listed as a priority option in the boot order.
  • USB Configuration: Check if there are settings that differentiate USB-A from USB-C or any related options like Legacy USB Support or USB Port 3.0/3.1 settings. Enable Legacy USB Support if it’s available.

If your BIOS doesn't explicitly mention USB-C, but it does show USB-A, enabling USB boot and Legacy Support should help. After adjusting the settings, save and exit BIOS/UEFI and try booting from the USB-C port again.

2. Try a Different USB Port (USB-A)

As you suspect, switching to a USB-A port might resolve the issue, especially if the Linux installer is having trouble booting from a USB-C port. Some systems may have issues booting from USB-C ports due to driver or compatibility issues during the boot process.

• If your PC has both USB-A and USB-C ports, plug the USB installation drive into a USB-A port and check if the system detects it during boot.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support

[moto0103 · Accepted solution]

After some trial and error, I figured it out: the PC only accepts USB-C when it's inserted the right way, and it must be plugged in correctly before booting.

[Rachel571]

Hi @moto0103,

Thank you so much for your response. I am glad the issue is resolved.

Is there anything else that I can help you with today?

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.Take care and have a great day ahead!

Rachel571 

HP Support