Google AI Mode:

When Windows 11 throws a "catastrophic failure" (often a Black/Blue Screen of Death, update loop, or locked settings), it’s usually caused by a bad system update, a corrupted driver, or buggy background OEM software (like Dell/HP utilities).

Here is an actionable, step-by-step approach to get your system back to working order, starting with the least invasive fixes:

1. The Command Prompt Repair (If you can still reach your desktop/Start menu)

Corrupted system files are a massive culprit for these crashes. Running a built-in repair tool can quickly fix the OS.

Right-click the Start menu and select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).

1. Type dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth and hit Enter (this connects to Windows Update to fix corrupted files).
2. Wait for it to finish, then type sfc /scannow and hit Enter (this scans for and repairs local file integrity).
3. Restart your computer