Critical system driver is missing or containing errors

[Ellsworth8]

I need help fixing my PC. It tells me there are critical system driver is missing or contains errors when loading and wants to try to restart all the time but will not do anything.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Ellsworth8,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like your PC is experiencing a serious issue with missing or corrupted drivers. Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and potentially fix the problem:

1. Boot into Safe Mode

Try to access Safe Mode, which loads only the essential drivers:

• Restart your PC and press F8 or Shift + F8 repeatedly while it’s booting.
• Select Safe Mode from the options.

2. Perform System Restore

If you can access Safe Mode:

• Go to Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore.
• Choose a restore point before the issue began and follow the prompts.

3. Use Automatic Repair

If you can't access Safe Mode:

1. Boot from a Windows installation media (USB or DVD).
2. Select your language preferences, then click Next.
3. Click on Repair your computer at the bottom left.
4. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.

4. Run Command Prompt

In the Advanced options from the installation media:

1. Select Command Prompt.
2. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
   • sfc /scannow (This checks for and repairs corrupted system files.)
   • chkdsk C: /f /r (This checks the disk for errors.)

5. Check for Driver Issues

If you can access Windows:

• Go to Device Manager (right-click the Start button).
• Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark. Right-click and select Update driver or Uninstall device, then restart your PC to reinstall drivers automatically.

6. Update Drivers Manually

If you suspect specific drivers are missing:

• Download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website on another computer and transfer them via USB.

7. Reset Your PC

If none of the above works and you have a backup of your data:

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
• Choose Reset this PC and follow the prompts.

8. Reinstall Windows

As a last resort, you can perform a clean installation of Windows using the installation media. Be sure to back up your data first.

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