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‎06-16-2026 01:17 PM

HP Recommended

We are currently reimaging older HP laptops (approximately 5 years old) and replacing their drives with smaller SSDs. Starting today, we’ve encountered an issue where multiple devices of the same models fail to boot from USB installation media.

When attempting to boot from the USB (previously used successfully to image dozens of machines), the system does not load the installer and instead returns directly to the BIOS/Startup Menu (ESC screen).

Scope / Impact:

  • Affected devices: 4 laptops so far (same models: HP EliteBook 840 G7 and G6)
  • Issue started: Today
  • Previously working: Yes — identical models were successfully imaged with Windows 11 yesterday using the same process and media
System attempts to boot, then returns to BIOS/Startup Menu without loading the installer.

Troubleshooting Performed:

  • Tested with multiple SSDs (new and known-good)
  • Recreated USB installation media using Windows 11 Media Creation Tool
  • Tested with Windows 10 installation media
  • Tried different USB drives and USB ports
  • Disabled Secure Boot
  • Performed hard reset (holding power button for ~25 seconds)
  • Removed main battery and CMOS battery for several minutes
  • Confirmed USB boot device (UEFI) is selected in boot menu
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