How to Fix Windows Stuck on “Preparing to Configure”

When Windows gets stuck on the “Preparing to Configure Windows” screen, it usually happens during updates or a fresh install while the system sets things up. If the screen stays visible, it means the update or install is delayed or incomplete. Common reasons include broken update files, missing setup files, or changed files that block setup.

Other reasons may be disk errors or temporary glitches that stop the system from moving forward.

In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.

Before Starting

Make sure you can reach the login screen. Wait 30 minutes as Windows might need time. If not resolved, hold the power button to turn off the computer or press “Ctrl” + “Alt” + “Del” and select “Restart.” After restarting, choose “Start Windows Normally.” The screen might appear again but should eventually go away.

1. Run SFC, DISK and CHKDSK

Start with a system health check using tools like SFC, DISM, and CHKDSK to quickly find and fix problems. SFC repairs damaged or missing system files. DISM fixes issues with the system image. CHKDSK checks and repairs disk errors. These tools help ensure updates are applied properly by maintaining file and disk integrity.

1. Press “Windows” + “R” to open the Run prompt.
2. Type “cmd” and press “Shift” + “Ctrl” + “Enter” for admin rights.
   
3. Enter these commands, pressing “Enter” after each:

   sfc /scannow
   DISM /online /cleanup-image /checkhealth
   chkdsk

   

4. Verify if the issue continues after the scans.

2. Update Windows in Safe Mode

Starting Windows in Safe Mode loads only necessary drivers and services. This prevents other programs from causing update issues. Updating in Safe Mode reduces errors from third-party software or corrupted files, helping the update finish smoothly and possibly fixing the “Preparing to Configure” issue.

First Boot into Safe Mode.

1. Start the computer in clean boot mode, then press “Windows” + “I” to open settings.
2. Click “Update & Security” and select “Windows Update” on the left.

   

3. Click “Check for Updates” and wait for the scan to complete.

   

4. Click “Install” after the scan finishes.
5. Verify if the updates apply successfully.

3. Perform a System Restore

Rolling back your system can fix problems from recent updates or installs. System Restore takes your system files back to when things were working well, fixing issues that cause the configuration screen to hang. It doesn’t affect personal files but resets important system files and settings, possibly solving the issue without more steps.

1. Restart the computer and press “F11” repeatedly at startup.
2. Open the advanced recovery options, click “Troubleshoot,” then “Advanced”.
   
3. Select “System Restore” and choose your restore point.
   
4. Follow the prompts to start the restore and let it finish.
5. Check if the issue is resolved after the restore.

Note: If you cannot fix the issue this way and still can’t perform the update, consider performing a completely clean install of Windows 10.