Windows 11 Quick Machine Recovery: Fast recovery in case of boot problems
If Windows fails to boot, we currently have the option of using Startup Repair in the advanced repair options. This will attempt to repair the boot menu using local data so that Windows can start again.
Microsoft has now integrated a new feature (currently in beta) called "Quick Machine Recovery." This is based on the well-known Startup Repair feature and searches for repair options via Windows Update and the cloud. Xeno tried the feature in test mode.
Microsoft has already published a description of this, stating that "Cloud-assisted remediation is enabled by default on Windows Home edition devices, while automatic remediation is disabled by default. On Windows Pro and Enterprise editions, both cloud remediation and automatic remediation are disabled by default. Organizations can choose the best configuration for their devices based on their specific needs."
The following phases are processed (see image)
- Device crash: If the device repeatedly fails to boot, the system automatically detects the problem and initiates the recovery process
- Boot to Recovery: The device will boot into the recovery environment to start the process of quickly restoring the device.
- Network connection: After a network connection is established, the device searches Windows Update for remedies
- Remedial measures
- If no solution is found, the system repeats the process based on the configured retest intervals and timeouts.
- If a solution is found, the system downloads and applies it.
- Reboot: After a workaround is applied, the device will reboot:
- If the solution is successful, the device will boot into Windows.
- If the solution fails, the device will reboot into the recovery environment, and the process will repeat from step 2.
With this feature, Microsoft uses Windows Update to detect and resolve boot issues. However, Microsoft notes: "Currently, only wired and WPA/WPA2 password-based Wi-Fi networks are supported." You can find further information and how to start the test on this page. Keep in mind, it's currently only available in beta.