---
title: "Fix: What to Do If Your PC Freezes During Windows Installation"
description: "Let’s go step-by-step to get your system back on track."
url: https://help.thesoftwarekings.com/en/articles/51-fix-what-to-do-if-your-pc-freezes-during-windows-installation
collection: "Windows Troubleshooting"
updated: 2026-03-10
language: en
---

# Fix: What to Do If Your PC Freezes During Windows Installation

Let’s go step-by-step to get your system back on track.

If your PC **freezes during the Windows installation process** — whether at the logo screen, during file copying, or while setting up devices — it can be frustrating, but it’s usually due to a simple compatibility or hardware-related issue.

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### 🔍 Common Scenarios Where Freezes Occur

-   Stuck at **“Getting files ready for installation”**
    
-   Freeze at 0%, 64%, or 100% during setup
    
-   System reboots and hangs on **“Just a moment...”** or **black screen**
    
-   PC becomes completely unresponsive (mouse/keyboard not working)
    

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### ✅ How to Fix It

#### 1\. **Wait — It Might Not Be Frozen**

Some steps (especially at 100%) can take 15–45 minutes depending on your system. If the drive light is blinking or you hear activity, give it time before assuming it’s stuck.

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#### 2\. **Unplug All Unnecessary Devices**

Disconnect:

-   USB drives (except the installer)
    
-   Printers, external hard drives
    
-   Wi-Fi dongles, wireless keyboard receivers, etc.  
    Then restart the installation.
    

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#### 3\. **Recreate the Installer Using the Official Tool**

Corrupt or outdated installers cause many freeze issues.

-   Use the official Media Creation Tool:  
    [Windows 10](https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows10)  
    [Windows 11](https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows11)
    
-   Recreate your USB on an 8GB+ stick (preferably USB 2.0)
    

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#### 4\. **Switch USB Ports (Use USB 2.0 Instead of 3.0)**

If you’re installing from a USB drive:

-   Use a **USB 2.0 port** — these tend to be more stable during setup
    
-   Avoid using USB hubs or front panel ports if on a desktop
    

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#### 5\. **Reset BIOS to Default or Update (Advanced)**

If you're still stuck:

-   Enter BIOS/UEFI (usually `DEL`, `F2`, or `ESC` during boot)
    
-   Reset settings to **Default/Optimized Defaults**
    
-   If available, **disable Secure Boot** and **enable AHCI mode**
    

If your PC is older, a **BIOS update** from your manufacturer may improve installation stability.

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### 📩 Still Freezing?

Send us:

-   A **photo of the screen where it freezes**
    
-   Your **PC or motherboard model**
    
-   What version of Windows you're installing
    

📧 Email it to [**help@thesoftwarekings.com**](mailto:help@thesoftwarekings.com) and we’ll help you troubleshoot or suggest an alternate install method.

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### 💬 Prefer Instant Help?

Ask **Kingbot** in the corner or message us directly