Windows could not prepare the computer to boot into the next phase of installation

While upgrading or even clean installing the Windows operating system on a computer, several complex tasks take place under the hood. Many users have been reporting encountering the Windows could not prepare the computer to boot into the next phase of Installation error.

The error states-

Windows could not prepare the computer to boot into the next phase of installation. To install Windows, restart the installation.

This error is not specific to a particular version of the Windows operating system and can occur on any Windows version. There are many causes of this issue, like incompatible BIOS, System File corruption, Improper installation media, and excessive hardware plugged in, and more. In this article, we will learn how to get rid of this error.

Windows could not prepare the computer to boot into the next phase of installation

We will be undertaking the following fixes to get rid of this error on Windows 11/10:

1. Remove the unnecessary hardware.
2. Fix the BIOS.
3. Reconfigure all the created partitions.
4. Recreate the bootable USB drive.

1] Remove the unnecessary hardware

You might have to disable or remove newly installed hardware because external devices can trigger this error.

For that, I would recommend trying to physically disconnect any external device connected to your computer and check if that fixes the Error.

2]  Fix the BIOS

The main solution for this that you update the system BIOS. If that does not help, you may reset BIOS and see.

Start your computer and during the booting, press the F10 key to enter the BIOS – But it could be the F1, F2 or Del key too.

Now, hit the F9 key to get the prompt to RestoreLoad default configuration now for the BIOS.

Click on Yes and follow the on-screen instructions to set the BIOS to its default settings.

Reboot your computer and check if it boots normally.

3] Reconfigure all the created partitions

You can also try to delete and recreate all the partitions available on your computer and check if that fixes your issues.

4] Recreate the Bootable drive

To fix this issue, you will need to make a bootable Windows USB drive and then boot your computer using it

I hope this helps!