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1
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
1
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Desktops
- Desktop Operating Systems and Recovery
- What is the solution of this

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02-12-2025 05:08 PM
@Els19, Welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding the error message!
We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.
The error message "Please install an operating system on your hard disk" means your HP laptop is not detecting a valid operating system to boot into. This can be caused by several reasons, such as a corrupted OS, a failed hard drive, or incorrect boot settings.
Check BIOS Boot Order
- Restart your laptop and press F10 repeatedly as soon as the HP logo appears to enter BIOS.
- Navigate to the Boot Options or Storage Configuration section.
- Ensure the correct boot device (Hard Drive/SSD) is listed at the top. If not, set it as the first boot option.
- Save & Exit (F10 key) and restart.
Run HP Diagnostics
- Restart your laptop and press F2 repeatedly to enter the HP Diagnostics menu.
- Select "System Tests" > "Hard Drive Test".
- If the test fails, your hard drive may be damaged, and you may need to replace it.
Repair Windows using a Bootable USB (If HDD/SSD is fine)
If the hard drive is detected but Windows is missing or corrupted, you’ll need to repair or reinstall Windows 11.
- Create a Windows 11 Bootable USB
- Use another PC to download the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool.
- Create a bootable USB drive (at least 8GB required).
- Boot from the USB Drive
- Plug in the USB to your HP laptop.
- Restart and press F9 to open Boot Menu.
- Select the USB drive and press Enter.
- Select "Repair your computer"
- Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to fix Windows.
Reinstall Windows 11 (If Repair Fails)
If the repair doesn’t work, reinstall Windows:
- Boot from the Windows 11 USB.
- Choose "Install Now" and follow the instructions.
- If prompted, select Custom Install and choose the primary hard drive.
- Complete the installation and set up Windows
Let me know if it helps!
Take care, and have an amazing day!
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Regards,
ZOEY7886
I am an HP Employee