HP Laptop PC 17t-by400 CTO restarts to factory default settings** AGAIN**

[wesc223]

Our laptop is returning to factory default settings when rebooting.  All user apps are removed from taskbar.  Internet browsers return to new user.  The only difference is programs are not uninstalled.  Started with July 15 Security update KB5015807.  I restarted 4 times per original advice.  I've created a new Recovery disc but totally clueless where to turn to.  I have absolutely no idea why this is happening repeatedly.  Should I try to repair, reinstall windows 10, upgrade to window 11? 

[Anand_Andy]

Hi @wesc223,

Welcome to the HP Support Community

I understand you are facing an issue with your HP Laptop PC 17t-By400 CTO. Not to worry I will help you to get a resolution to resolve the issue.

To assist better:

• Did you install any 3rd party application apart from the Security update before the issue occurred?

While you respond to that, please try the below steps to resolve the issue.

Step 1: Check for Windows Update: select Start  > Settings  > Update & Security  > Windows Update , and then select Check for updates. If updates are available, install them.

Step 2: Perform SFC Scan: 

1. Use Windows shortcut keys Win + X to open the quick menu and then select Command Prompt (Admin). 

2. At the command prompt, type the following command sfc /scannow 

3. Press ENTER 

4. The sfc /scannow command will scan all protected system files, and replace corrupted files. Note Do not close this Command Prompt window until the verification is 100% complete. The scan results will be shown after this process is finished. 
 

Step 3: Update the firmware 

• Click here to download and install the latest printer firmware from your product

If the issue persists, then please take a backup of all your data and then perform a clean re-installation of the operating system using the HP Cloud Recovery Tool.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

[wesc223]

1. The PC is up to date.

2.  SFC Scan did not find any corrupt files.

3.  I did not add any new programs before this latest incident.  I did add CCleaner before your response to help clean the registry.

4. This computer is supported by the recovery tool, but I do not have a 64gb flash drive.  

Before I go running back to a store, should I just upgrade to WIn11 instead?  Is this the same as reinstalling WIN10?

[Anand_Andy]

@wesc223,

Thank you for your response,  I really appreciate your efforts in trying the troubleshooting steps.

Upgrading to Windows 11 is not the same as reinstalling the operating system and you don't need a 64GB flash drive. 

You will need a 32GB empty flash drive to load the operating system and then use it to reinstall the operating system. 

Please take a backup of all your data and then perform a clean re-installation of the operating system using the HP Cloud Recovery Tool.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.

Please click “Accept as Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos, Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!