My computer doesn't go past the login screen how do I put in recovery mode

[Darkprince559]

I cannot put my laptop in recovery mode for some reason I push the esc button and then the f11 but it just takes me to the login page and I bought this laptop online so I have no way of getting ahold of the previous owner does anyone know what I can do 

[Nal_NR]

Hi @Darkprince559,

Welcome to the HP Support Community. 

I'd be glad to help you! 

If you're unable to access the recovery mode on your HP Stream 14-ax040wm using the standard key combinations and you don't have access to the previous owner's information, you can try the following methods to reset your laptop and regain access:

Method 1: Use Windows Recovery Options from Settings

1. Sign In to the laptop if possible.
2. Open Settings:
   • Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
3. Reset This PC:
   • Under the Reset this PC section, click Get started.
   • Choose Remove everything to fully wipe the laptop.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to reset the laptop.

Method 2: Use Advanced Startup from the Login Screen

1. Access Advanced Startup:
   • From the login screen, click on the Power icon at the bottom right corner of the screen.
   • Hold the Shift key and click Restart.
2. Select an Option:
   • After restarting, you'll see the Choose an option screen.
   • Click Troubleshoot > Reset this PC > Remove everything.

Method 3: Use HP Cloud Recovery Tool (Requires USB)

1. Create a Recovery USB:
   • On another computer, download the HP Cloud Recovery Tool from the Microsoft Store.
   • Insert a USB drive (at least 16 GB) and run the tool to create a recovery USB for your HP Stream 14-ax040wm.
2. Boot from USB:
   • Insert the recovery USB into the HP Stream.
   • Turn off the laptop, and then turn it on while pressing the Esc key repeatedly to open the Startup Menu.
   • Press F9 to open Boot Device Options, then select the USB drive.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows using the recovery USB.

Method 4: Use a Windows 10 Installation Media (Requires USB)

1. Create Windows 10 Installation Media:
   • On another computer, download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.
   • Run the tool and select Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC.
2. Boot from the USB Drive:
   • Insert the Windows 10 installation USB into your HP Stream.
   • Turn off the laptop, then turn it on and press the Esc key repeatedly.
   • Press F9 for Boot Device Options and select the USB drive.
3. Reinstall Windows:
   • Click Install Now on the setup screen.
   • Choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
   • Delete all partitions to ensure a clean installation and follow the prompts to install Windows.

Method 5: Hard Reset from BIOS (Last Resort)

1. Access the BIOS:
   • Turn off the laptop and turn it on while pressing the Esc key repeatedly to open the Startup Menu.
   • Press F10 to enter the BIOS Setup.
2. Restore Defaults:
   • Look for the Restore Defaults option (usually under the Exit or Advanced tab) and select it.
   • Save and exit, then try booting again or re-attempt the recovery options.

If none of these methods work, or if you're facing restrictions due to previous ownership, you may need to contact HP Phone Support for further assistance.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.