Since the issue started after an accidental registry change and the PC now loops into Recovery/startup errors, use Windows Recovery Environment and try the least disruptive options first.
- Enter Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
- Turn the laptop off.
- Turn it on and let it fail to start.
- After two failed boot attempts, Windows should enter WinRE automatically.
- Run Startup Repair.
- In WinRE, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair > Restart.
- This tool can repair startup problems such as corrupted system files, boot configuration data, MBR issues, incompatible drivers, and registry errors.
- If prompted, enter the BitLocker recovery key.
- If Startup Repair does not fix it, use System Restore.
- In WinRE, go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
- Choose a restore point from before the registry change.
- This is the recommended way to undo unknown registry damage.
- If the Recovery screen mentions BCD or boot errors, open Command Prompt in WinRE.
- Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
- Run these commands one at a time:
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
- Restart and check whether Windows starts.
- If disk corruption is suspected, run a disk check from Command Prompt in WinRE:
chkdsk /f /r
- If Windows still will not start, use Startup Settings to try Safe Mode.
- In WinRE, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
- After restart, choose a Safe Mode option.
- If Safe Mode works, the problem is less likely to be basic boot failure and more likely related to drivers, services, or the registry change.
- If none of the above works, use a restore/reset option carefully.
- Recovery options can result in data loss.
- Back up important files first if possible.
- If a reset is needed, choose the option that keeps personal files.
Important:
- Avoid manual registry hive replacement unless a restore point or standard recovery option has already failed.
- Registry repair steps can be risky, and incorrect changes can make startup problems worse.
- If the device is encrypted, the BitLocker recovery key may be required in WinRE.
References:
- Recovery options in Windows
- Startup Repair
- Surface turns on but is stuck on the Recovery screen
- Advanced troubleshooting for Windows startup issues
- Windows startup settings
- Broken lockscreen image, doesn't log in - Microsoft Q&A
- I accidentally run a windows registry, and now my pc is error - Microsoft Q&A