- The FIRST_BOOT phase error is usually related to incompatible drivers, third-party programs, and system file corruption.
- Microsoft recommends using Windows UpdateRun SFC and DISM, and perform a Boot clean to reduce conflicts during the update.
- Tools like SetupDiag and DriverStore cleanup help identify and remove drivers problematic issues that block the installation.
- If all else fails, a clean install and updating the BIOS, firmware, and drivers can break the update failure loop.
When Windows tries to update or perform an installation and the message appears “Error in the FIRST_BOOT phase”Normally, the process stops, the changes are reverted, and the system reverts to the previous version. For those experiencing this, especially if they've been stuck on the same build for months, it can be a real headache.
This fault is usually accompanied by an additional error code (such as 0xC1900101 and similar) and is almost always related to problematic drivers, third-party programs, or internal system corruptionThe good news is that, although it may seem tedious, it can usually be resolved by following a series of systematic steps and reviewing the key points mentioned by both users and official Microsoft support, including articles on [topic missing]. problems with the latest updates.
What does the error in the FIRST_BOOT phase mean?
The message of “Error in the FIRST_BOOT phase” This refers to one of the key stages of the Windows installation or upgrade process. During this phase, the system performs its first boot with the new files, applies drivers, configures services, and finishes fine-tuning the installation. If something goes wrong here, Windows is able to detect the problem and, in many cases, restore the system to its previous state without losing your data.
In modern versions such as Windows 10 or Windows Server 2019, the system has greatly improved its ability to recover from a failed updatePreviously, an error in these phases could mean having to use a backup, restore system images, or even reinstall from scratch. Now, the system usually reverts changes and returns you to the previous build after one or more restarts.
Microsoft's analysis and documentation indicate that this type of failure is closely associated with faulty or incompatible drivers. On client computers (Windows 10 desktop or portable), they are often suspects graphics card drivers, network adapters (Wi-Fi or wired), USB devices, antivirus software, or optimization toolsIn server environments, such as Windows Server 2019, real-world cases have shown problems with more specific drivers, for example HBA cards or controllers of storage from manufacturers like QLogic.
An important point is that it's not always immediately clear which component has failed. Therefore, in addition to trying general troubleshooting steps (disk checks, program cleanup, etc.), it's very useful to... review the installation logs and use official tools like Microsoft's SetupDiag, which allow you to see more accurately what caused the installation to crash.
Common symptoms and real-life examples of the FIRST_BOOT error
Among those who have suffered from this problem, a number of fairly similar symptoms are repeated. The most typical is remaining in a... old version of Windows 10 unable to advanceFor example, some users are still stuck on build 1709, no matter how many times they download the ISO, use the media creation tool, or make multiple attempts with Windows Update.
In one of these cases, the user had tried practically everything: install from an ISO, make a clean boot disabling all non-Microsoft servicesDisconnect all peripherals except the monitor, force a restart when it gets stuck on the soft restart, run sfc / scannow y chkdsk (confirming that the disks were correct), delete the folder software distribution and update all hardware drivers. Even so, the update kept reverting at the FIRST_BOOT stage.
Another common example is that of a relatively modest but compatible laptop, such as a Lenovo G50-30 with Pentium N3530 processor, 4 GB of RAM and mechanical hard driveThis computer originally came with Windows 8.1; after using the recovery tool to restore it to factory settings and perform a clean 8.1 reinstallation, everything seemed fine. The problem arose when trying to upgrade to Windows 10: on each attempt, the FIRST_BOOT error appeared, and the system undid the changes, repeatedly reverting to Windows 8.1.
The person trying to update this Lenovo tried a wide variety of actions: disable firewall, install absolutely all Windows 8.1 updates (a very long process), start the system in clean boot with only Microsoft services active, execute SFC and CHKDSK found no errors on the disk, create the key in the registry OS Upgrade with the value AllowUpgrade=1Update all drivers from the Lenovo website, remove devices with exclamation marks in the Device administrator After installing those drivers and also testing both the update from a USB and directly from the Media Creation ToolNothing worked, and the FIRST_BOOT error persisted.
In server environments, the situation is similar but with some nuances. After several restarts during a Windows Server 2019 upgrade, the same error message may appear. On these machines, the system typically reverts the process and restores the server to its previous state, avoiding the need for further upgrades. restore backups or reinstallHowever, it is essential to carefully review which driver or component has caused the failure, as in many cases it is a matter of HBA-type storage controllersSAN connectivity or similar, where an unstable controller can lead to blue screens and boot failures.
In addition, some devices exhibit other unusual behaviors, such as not to make the usual post (The manufacturer's logo is not visible, and access to the BIOS/UEFI is not possible using keys like F10, F12, or Esc), which complicates accessing advanced boot options. In these cases, users report that they can only reach Windows recovery options using the key combination Shift + Reset from within the system itself, and from there open the console or the repair tools.
Most frequent causes of the error in the FIRST_BOOT phase
By compiling all the information from the cases discussed and the official recommendations, a clear pattern emerges: in the vast majority of situations, the origin of the error in the FIRST_BOOT phase It is on one of these fronts: incompatible drivers, third-party programs, or system file corruptionEach family of cases requires a slightly different approach.
One of the recurring culprits are the obsolete or defective driversOn client systems, issues are being linked to graphics card drivers, network adapters, older chipset drivers, USB devices, etc. On servers, problems have been documented with storage controllers from manufacturers such as QLogic, where specific versions of their miniport driver for Windows Server 2016/2019 caused failures during the initial boot phase of the new version.
Another very common cause is third-party antivirus and “optimizing” toolsMicrosoft insists that, before updating, these types of programs should be disabled (and even completely uninstalled), as they interfere with update processes and block them. Temporary filesThey alter permissions or inject components into the boot process, all of which can cause FIRST_BOOT to fail and the changes to be reverted. Therefore, it is advisable Uninstall any antivirus or security suite before attempting the update.
must not forget the corruption of internal Windows filesProblems with the system image, critical boot files, or Windows Update components can cause looping and failing updates. Therefore, it is always recommended to use the following methods: native repair tools of the system: sfc / scannow and the different parameters of DISM.exe to analyze and restore the Windows image before attempting the update again.
Finally, in some environments it has been observed that even after updating a problematic driver, issues remain. remnants of older versions in the Windows Driver StoreThis can cause Windows to attempt to load an outdated driver during the installation phase, a driver that was already causing problems and thus recurring the error. In such cases, it is advisable to clean the DriverStore manually or with specific tools, checking which old drivers can be removed without compromising the boot process.
Check Windows version, build, and computer compatibility
Before tackling deep repairs, Microsoft's official support recommendations involve knowing exactly What version and build of Windows do you have installed? and what hardware you're using. With that information, it's much easier to determine if you're affected by any known issues or if your system is no longer supported for certain builds.
To check it, Microsoft says you just need to press Windows key + R, to write winver In the Run window, click OK. This opens a small window with the Windows edition (Home, Pro, Server, etc.), the version (for example, 21H2), and the exact compilationWith that data, you can check if you're stuck on an old build like 1709 or if you're trying to jump directly to a much newer version.
Furthermore, it is key to have a clear understanding of the make and model of the equipmentKnowing whether it's a Lenovo G50-30 laptop, a desktop with an MSI B550 motherboard, or a specific server allows you to review the manufacturers' documentation, confirm which versions of Windows are supported, and, above all, Download the latest batch of drivers and firmwareMany manufacturers publish specific notes on compatibility with Windows 10. Windows 11 or Windows Server, and even warn of known problems with certain updates.
Microsoft support technicians also emphasize that the recommended way to update the system is Let Windows Update do it itselfThey advise against forcing updates using ISOs or external tools, even if they come from Microsoft servers, unless absolutely necessary. Windows Update manages dependencies, drivers, and additional packages that are sometimes handled differently in a manual installation.
If you verify that Windows Update (path: Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows UpdateIt is already trying to install the update that is failing; ideally, correct the environment (programs, drivers, internal corruption) and then restart the update from there, instead of forcing it from an ISO or USB, which may hit the same stone again.
Use of native tools: SFC and DISM
One of the first lines of defense when there are errors during a Windows update or installation is to pull the integrated repair tools within the system itself. Microsoft strongly recommends running them with the PC connected to the Internet and being patient, as some phases may take several minutes to complete.
The recommended procedure involves opening a console with elevated privileges. To do this, press Windows + X and select Symbol of the system (Administrator) o Windows PowerShell (Administrator)Once the window is open, the first step is to launch the command:
sfc / scannow
This command analyzes the integrity of system files and, if it detects corrupt or modified ones, attempts to repair them. replace them with correct versions from the Windows internal cache. It is essential to let it finish 100%, without closing the window even if it seems to stay at certain percentages for a while.
After SFC is completed, the next step is to use the deployment image maintenance tool, known as DISMSpecifically, two are recommended. commands executed one after the other:
DISM.exe / Online / Cleanup-image / Scanhealth
DISM.exe / Online / Cleanup-image / RestoreHealth
The first one performs an analysis of the Windows image status, checking for corrupted components or internal inconsistencies. The second one attempts repair that image downloading the necessary files from Microsoft servers or using available local sources. As in the previous case, each phase can take quite a while; it is crucial to run them one by one, without interrupting the process, and when both are finished, Restart the system before trying the update again.
Microsoft recommendations: third-party programs and clean boot
From the official Microsoft forums, support agents repeatedly emphasize the role that the third-party antivirus and “optimization” programs This type of error can often lead to problems. These programs, though it may not seem like it, frequently become deeply embedded in the system, installing drivers, services, and filters that intercept disk operations, network activity, or even registry changes, which can completely disrupt an update process.
Therefore, one of the first recommendations is disable or, preferably, uninstall any antivirus or security suite other than your own Windows Defender before starting the update. The same applies to aggressive cleaning utilities, programs that promise to speed up your PC, system "tune-up" tools, or third-party firewalls. Microsoft provides documentation on how Repair or uninstall programs in Windows 10This is something worth checking if any software resists being removed.
Another fundamental course of action is to carry out a clean bootThis technique involves starting Windows with the fewest possible third-party services and applications, so that no external processes interfere during the update attempt. The procedure includes using the tool msconfig to disable non-essential services and, from the Task Manager, prevent third-party programs from starting automatically with the system.
In some reported cases, users had already attempted this clean boot, unbranding everything that wasn't from MicrosoftHowever, they still encountered the FIRST_BOOT error. While this doesn't guarantee a solution on its own, it greatly reduces the likelihood of conflicts and is one of those steps that should definitely be taken before addressing more complex causes, such as low-level driver issues or hardware incompatibilities.
As a final step within Microsoft's "official" recommendations, it is suggested to run the windows update troubleshooterThis automated tool checks system components related to the update, resets configurations, repairs paths, and re-registers necessary services. It doesn't always detect the root cause of the problem, but it helps clear the way for future attempts.
Identify problematic drivers with SetupDiag and DriverStore
When general solutions (SFC, DISM, clean boot, antivirus uninstallation, etc.) have been tried and the FIRST_BOOT error persists, it's time to get more technical and review the installation logsMicrosoft provides a very useful tool for this: SetupDiag.exe.
SetupDiag can be run both on the computer that failed to update and by analyzing the installation directories extracted from a remote computerWhat it does is inspect the logs generated by the Windows setup process and provide a summary of the problems detected, including, in many cases, the specific driver that caused the failureThis is especially interesting when the error is associated with a specific driver that causes blue screens or aborts the installation.
In the context of Windows Server 2016/2019, a clear example is provided by QLogic HBA cards. Incidents have been documented where a specific version of the miniport driver (for example, 9.2.9.20) was causing the error during the upgrade. After investigation, the solution was found to be installing a more recent version of the driver, such as 9.2.9.23, which included the correct version in its change history. correcting this behaviorSubsequently, QLogic has updated these drivers to versions such as 9.3.3.20, 9.4.1.20 or 9.4.4.20, expanding compatibility with Windows Server 2012, 2016 and 2019.
Even after updating problematic drivers, there are situations where the system still tries to use older versions hosted in the Windows driver storeThat warehouse is located in the folder %WINDIR%\System32\DriverStoreIt often contains multiple versions of the same driver. If one of the older versions is causing the FIRST_BOOT error, the update may continue to fail repeatedly even after installing a seemingly correct new version.
To avoid this, it's advisable to check the DriverStore and, carefully, clean up driver versions that are no longer in useespecially those identified as problematic in the logs. Graphical tools exist that allow you to view the contents of the DriverStore and delete specific entries; the key is not to delete indiscriminately, but to focus on obsolete drivers whose devices have already been updated or replaced with newer versions provided by the manufacturer.
If, after updating drivers and cleaning the storage, the update still fails with the same error, many specialists also recommend update the BIOS/UEFI and firmware of critical devices (HBA, RAID, etc.). In some cases, it has been shown that older firmware versions, in combination with certain drivers, trigger boot failures right at the FIRST_BOOT phase.
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