HP All on one won't start up

[Notsmart4]

I turned on my desktop and it prompted me for recovery key. I imputed it with the correct number 4 times. I did diagnostic check through the system by using the esc key ... It passed. Still not working. Can anyone help me restart without losing all my stuff. Thank you. 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Notsmart4,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

I understand your HP all-in-one desktop is asking for a recovery key and will not start normally, even though diagnostics passed. Let’s go through a few steps to check what could be causing this and how to restart without losing your data.

Confirm the recovery key is correct
Make sure the key matches the exact device name listed in your Microsoft account.
Enter the numbers carefully using the keyboard (not the number pad if available).

Check the system date and time in BIOS
Restart the computer and press Esc, then F10 to enter BIOS.
Verify the date and time are correct, save changes, and exit.

Load BIOS default settings
In BIOS, choose Load Setup Defaults or Restore Defaults.
Save and exit to clear any configuration mismatch triggering the recovery prompt.

Disconnect all external devices
Unplug USB drives, printers, external hard drives, and memory cards.
Restart the computer with only the keyboard, mouse, and power connected.

Try a normal restart after diagnostics
Restart the system again after diagnostics have completed successfully.
Sometimes the recovery prompt clears after a clean reboot.

Check Secure Boot and TPM settings
Enter BIOS again and confirm Secure Boot is enabled and TPM is present.
Do not disable TPM, as this can cause data access issues.

Use Startup Repair (non-destructive)
Power the computer on and interrupt startup 2–3 times to trigger recovery.
Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.

Avoid Reset or Reinstall options
Do not select “Reset this PC” or reinstall Windows at this stage.
Those options can remove installed programs or personal data.

Back up data before any major changes (if accessible)
If you can reach recovery command options, stop before resetting.
Data preservation is still possible while the drive remains encrypted and intact.

If diagnostics pass and the correct recovery key is accepted, this issue is usually caused by a BIOS or security setting mismatch rather than data corruption. The steps above focus on restoring startup without affecting your files.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

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Best regards,