Windows install & repair
Windows install, reinstall and repair in Rock Hill
Stuck on 'Preparing Automatic Repair,' blue screens, updates that fail every night, or a computer that just needs a clean start.
Startup loops and blue screens
A computer stuck on "Preparing Automatic Repair," or one that restarts with a blue screen, can be a broken update, a bad driver, a failing drive or bad memory. The stop code on the blue screen (for example CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED or a code like 0x000000EF) is a real clue. Snap a photo of it and add it to your request.
A BitLocker recovery screen showed up
A blue screen asking for a BitLocker recovery key means the drive is encrypted and Windows wants proof it's you, often after a firmware update or hardware change. Don't reinstall Windows to get past it: that erases the drive. If you sign in with a Microsoft account, look up the key at account.microsoft.com under Devices from another device.
Repair, reset, or clean install
Repair in place
Fix the broken part (driver, update, startup files) and leave everything else alone. First choice when it works.
Clean reinstall
Back up files, erase, install a fresh copy of Windows, reinstall drivers and programs, put the files back. Best after heavy malware or years of buildup.
Windows also has a built-in "Reset this PC" with a "Keep my files" option. It removes installed programs but keeps your documents. It's a reasonable middle step, as long as your files are backed up first.
Windows 10 to Windows 11
Microsoft ended regular support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, which means no more routine security updates without the paid Extended Security Updates program. Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0, Secure Boot capability and a processor on Microsoft's supported list. Some computers just need TPM or Secure Boot turned on in the firmware settings. Others are too old, and then the choice is between a replacement and the risks of staying put.
Common questions
Will reinstalling Windows delete my files?
A clean install erases the drive, so files are backed up first and restored after. 'Reset this PC' with 'Keep my files' keeps documents but removes installed programs. Either way, back up first.
How do I know if my computer can run Windows 11?
Open the PC Health Check app from Microsoft, or check Settings, Windows Update. The common blockers are an older processor, TPM 2.0 being turned off, or Secure Boot being off.
Do I need a new Windows license to reinstall?
Usually not. Most PCs have a digital license tied to the hardware, and Windows activates on its own after reinstalling the same edition.
What does 'Preparing Automatic Repair' mean?
Windows failed to start a few times and is trying to fix itself. If it loops, the cause can be a bad update, corrupt startup files or a failing drive. Back up files before trying bigger fixes.
Not sure what's wrong with it?
Describe what it's doing in plain words. That's enough to get started.
Start with the problem, not the jargon.
You don't need to know what part failed. Tell us the make if you know it, what the computer is doing, and when it started. We'll reach out the way you choose and talk through next steps.
- Windows laptops and desktops, Macs, gaming PCs
- Homes and small offices
- Rock Hill, Fort Mill, Tega Cay, York, Clover, Lake Wylie, Indian Land
Helpful if you have it: a photo of any error message, and the model number (usually on a sticker underneath a laptop or on the back of a desktop).