How to Disable Automatic Restart in Windows XP

Updated October 14, 2016

Windows XP is programmed by default to restart immediately after a major error, like one that causes a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). This reboot happens too fast to record the error message for use in troubleshooting.

Follow these easy steps to disable the automatic restart feature for system failures in Windows XP.

Difficulty: Easy

Time Required: Disabling the Automatic Restart option in Windows XP usually takes less than 10 minutes

Here's How:

  1. Navigate to the Control Panel in Windows XP by left-clicking on Start, followed by Settings and then choosing Control Panel.

  2. In the Control Panel window, open System.

    Note: In Microsoft Windows XP, depending on how your operating system is setup, you may not see the System icon. To correct this, click on the link on the left-hand side of the Control Panel window that says Switch to Classic View.

  3. In the System Properties window, click on the Advanced tab.

  4. Locate the Startup and Recovery area and click on the Settings button.

  5. In the Startup and Recovery window, locate and uncheck the check box next to Automatically restart.

  6. Click OK in the Startup and Recovery window.

  7. Click OK in the System Properties window.

  8. From now on, when a problem causes a BSOD or another major error that halts the system, the PC will not automatically reboot. Rebooting manually will be necessary.

Tips:

  1. Not a Windows XP user? See How Do I Disable Automatic Restart on System Failure in Windows? for specific instructions for your version of Windows.