If you’re attempting to upgrade your Windows operating system to the latest version, such as Windows 10 or 11, you may encounter the error message “Windows could not complete the installation. To install Windows on this computer, restart the installation.” This error can be frustrating and confusing, leaving you with no clear instructions on what to do next.
However, there are several solutions to this problem that have been tested and proven to work. In this article, we’ll share with you the best methods to fix the “Windows could not complete the installation” error on Windows 10 and 11.
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Understanding the cause of the error
The “Windows could not complete the installation” error message typically appears when there is an issue with the Windows installation process. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as corrupted installation files, hardware issues, outdated drivers, or insufficient system resources.
In some cases, the error message may also appear if there are conflicts with existing software or antivirus programs on the computer. These conflicts can prevent the installation process from completing successfully.
It’s important to note that this error message can occur during any stage of the Windows installation process, including during upgrades, clean installs, or system restores.
Force your Windows 10 or 11 to boot into Automatic Repair
If you’re encountering the “Windows could not complete the installation” error message during the installation or upgrade of Windows 10 or 11, one of the most effective ways to fix it is to force your system to boot into the Automatic Repair screen.
To force your Windows 10 or 11 to boot into Automatic Repair, follow these steps:
- If you’re on the “Windows could not complete the installation” error screen, turn off your computer by long-holding and pressing your computer’s power button until everything turns off.
- Turn on your PC again. As soon as it starts loading your Windows, turn it off again. Repeat this step three times.
- It will then boot into the following screen. Click on “Advanced options.”
- Click on “Troubleshoot.”
- Click on “Reset this PC.” Don’t worry, we’re not going to reset your PC.
- Click on “Keep my files.”
- Do not click “Reset.” Instead, just click “Cancel.”
- Select “Continue.”
- The Windows 10 or 11 installation should resume now.
This method works because it clears any temporary files or corrupted data that may be causing the installation to fail.
Use the old oobe msoobe method
The OOBE MSOOBE method is a classic solution that has been used to fix the “Windows could not complete the installation” error on Windows 7 and 8 installations. Some users have reported that this method also works for Windows 10 and 11 installations.
OOBE stands for “Out-of-Box Experience,” which is the wizard that runs when you first set up your computer. MSOOBE, on the other hand, stands for “Microsoft Out-of-Box Experience.” This method essentially forces your computer to go through the OOBE again, creating a new account and user profile.
To use the OOBE MSOOBE method to fix the “Windows could not complete the installation” error, follow these steps:
- On the error screen, hold “Shift” and press “F10.” This will bring up the command prompt.
- In the command prompt, type the following command: cd %windir%/system32/oobe/
- Press “Enter.”
- Then, continue by typing the following command: msoobe
- Press “Enter.”
- In the next window that appears, create an account with a username and password in the wizard.
- Restart your computer and see if this fixes the problem.
This method works by essentially creating a new user profile on your computer, which may resolve any issues that were preventing the installation from completing successfully.
Replace your installation disc, USB or setup files
If all else fails, the installation disc or USB that you’re using to install Windows 10 or 11 may be corrupted or damaged. In this case, you’ll need to replace your installation media with a new, working copy.
It’s important to note that if you’re experiencing this error message frequently or with different installation attempts, there may be an underlying issue with your computer that needs to be addressed. In this case, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance to diagnose and repair the issue.
