what to do ?

bufri 0 Reputation points
2026-09-02T12:36:22.55+00:00

hi I've been having issues with my computer, when booting my computer it stays at a black screen. later it boots up to diagnosing your pc, after that it goes to repairing disk errors. I ran an HP diagnostics test on my hard drive, only short failed. FAILURE ID: [PII removed]

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Performance and system failures
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  1. AI answer

    2026-09-02T12:36:43.9266667+00:00

    The symptoms point to a boot problem, and the failed hard drive short test means protecting data should be the first priority.

    1. Back up important files immediately if the drive is still readable.
      • Recovery and repair steps can lead to data loss.
      • The recovery guidance explicitly warns to back up important files before proceeding.
    2. Try Startup Repair from Windows Recovery Environment.
      • Start the PC from Windows installation media.
      • On Install Windows, select Next > Repair your computer.
      • Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
      • After it finishes, select Shutdown, then power the PC back on and check whether Windows starts normally.
    3. If the screen is black with a blinking cursor or boot files are damaged, repair boot records from recovery command prompt.
      • Start from Windows installation media.
      • Press Shift+F10 for Command Prompt.
      • Run: 
             BOOTREC /FIXMBR
     BOOTREC /FIXBOOT
      • If BCD errors are involved, run: 
             Bootrec /ScanOS
     bcdedit /export c:\bcdbackup
     attrib c:\boot\bcd -r -s -h
     ren c:\boot\bcd bcd.old
     bootrec /rebuildbcd
      • Restart and test boot again.
    4. Check the disk for corruption if Windows or recovery command tools can access the drive.
      • Run: 
             chkdsk /f /r
      • This can take a long time.
    5. If the system reaches Safe Mode, use it to investigate further.
      • On Advanced Boot Options, try Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking.
      • If Safe Mode works, open Event Viewer from Start > Administrative Tools > Event Viewer and review the System log for disk or startup errors.
    6. If recovery does not fix startup, use Windows recovery options.
      • For a PC that will not start or is in a restart loop, use the recovery options in Windows.
      • Start with the least disruptive option first.

    Because the hard drive short test failed and the system is already showing repairing disk errors, prioritize backup before repeated repair attempts.

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  2. Kai-H 27,135 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-09-03T09:44:25.17+00:00

    (Please note that our forum is a public platform, and we will modify your question to hide your personal information in the description. Kindly ensure that you hide any personal or organizational information the next time you post an error or other details to protect personal data.)

    Hi, bufri

    The failed HP Short DST test, together with the disk-repair loop, strongly points to a physical drive problem rather than only damaged Windows startup files. HP recommends contacting support when diagnostics display a 24-digit failure ID.

    Besides the solutions provided by the Q&A Assist, here are some suggestions you can try: 

    Contact HP Support and provide the Failure ID, the Product ID, and the computer’s serial number. They can confirm the failed component and check whether the repair is covered by warranty.

    The practical fix will most likely be replacing the failing drive. Ask HP or a repair shop which SSD is compatible with your exact model. Replacing an older hard drive with an SSD is generally recommended.

    After installing the new drive, reinstall Windows using HP recovery media or a Windows installation USB. Manufacturer recovery media may include the correct HP drivers and factory software.

    If important files cannot be copied normally, stop repeatedly starting or testing the old drive. Have a repair shop remove it and attempt recovery through a USB adapter. For irreplaceable files, use a professional data-recovery service before the drive deteriorates further.

    Thank you for your patience in reading, I hope this information has been helpful to you. 

    If the answer is helpful, please click "Yes" and kindly upvote it. If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment."    

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