After changing the “Number of processors”, “Maximum Memory”, “PCI Lock” settings in the MSCONFIG Advanced Boot Options dialog, Windows may not start correctly. In some cases, you’ll see the “HAL INITIALIZATION FAILED” or other blue screen errors at startup.
Resolution
You can undo the changes you made in msconfig.exe via Windows RE.
Step 1: Boot into Windows RE
After three unsuccessful boot attempts, Windows will allow you to load the Windows Recovery Environment (RE). If not, you can use a bootable USB Windows setup disk to enter Windows RE.
In Windows RE, click Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Command Prompt.
For more information, see How to access Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
Step 2: Fix the BCD
To revert the changes you made in the MSCONFIG “Advanced Boot Options” dialog, run these commands:
bcdedit /deletevalue {default} numproc
bcdedit /deletevalue {default} truncatememory
bcdedit /deletevalue {default} usefirmwarepcisettings
Press Enter after typing each command.
Note: You should see the message “The operation completed successfully.” for each command.
The above commands will undo your faulty MSCONFIG Advanced Boot Options settings.
To restart the computer, run the following:
wpeutil reboot
See if you’re able to start Windows normally.
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I was scared, I thought I messed up my computer after messing with the memory settings on msconfig.
Whoever you are, you’re a life saver
Thank you
I second that comment, I stupidly changed the processor amount after some idiots video suggested it would help with performance. I tried reformatting and everything and this was the only way to fix it! Thank you so much!!
Great thanks man! I started worring after red some forums, but successfuly got to you. Wish you best!