Windows recovery environment — by Microsoft Support

intermediatepageLink only (©)

Introduces Windows RE, the built-in set of tools that can automatically fix common startup problems and act as the starting point for manual recovery, and shows the different ways to reach it.

Quick steps

Power on and watch for the logo
Hold the power button to shut off when the logo appears
Repeat the forced shutdown
On the third power-on, choose Advanced options at the Automatic Repair screen

Paraphrased from the source. Menus can differ by version, so check the original for full details.

Read the full article on support.microsoft.com

Source: Windows recovery environment by Microsoft Support. Licence: Link only (©).

Source reviewed: 2026-11-02
Link checked: 2026-11-02
Tested hands-on: Not by Oddbyte.Me

winreautomatic repairboot

More in Recovery & Reinstall

Backup, restore, and recovery in Windows — by Microsoft Support

beginnerpage

Explains the difference between backup, restore and recovery and introduces the built-in tools for each, including Windows Backup, File History, System Restore and Recovery Drive. It walks through the options on the Recovery settings page.

Recovery options in Windows — by Microsoft Support

beginnerpage

Helps you pick a recovery method for a Windows 10 or 11 PC, depending on whether it still starts, beginning with the least disruptive option. It recommends backing up your important files first.

Fix issues by reinstalling the current version of Windows — by Microsoft Support

intermediatepage

Describes the Fix problems using Windows Update option, which reinstalls the Windows version already on the PC to repair system files while keeping apps, files and settings. It also covers why the option can be missing.