Member Avatar for Pamela_6

I tried to update Windows 10 but I didn't have enough storage so it made me use a flash drive to complete the update. I restarted the computer when it was done, and now it's stuck on a "Please insert external storage media and press OK" error message. I press OK over and over again but nothing happens and the message doesn't go away. I can't get to the desktop. Anyone know how I can fix this?? It happened in the middle of a big project I've been working on =(. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by KushMishra

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This prompt usually appears when Windows began a feature update using a USB/SD card because there was not enough free space on the internal drive. Setup still needs that same external device to finish or roll back. Power the PC off, insert the exact USB you used (try a different port if it is not detected; avoid hubs), then power on and leave it connected until you are back at the desktop. Windows only tells you to remove it after the install completes. (support.microsoft.com)

If OK still does nothing or you no longer have that drive, roll back from Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). Force WinRE by interrupting boot twice: start the PC, as soon as the logo appears hold the power button to turn it off; repeat once more; on the third start choose Advanced options. Then go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates > Uninstall latest feature update to return to the prior build. (support.microsoft.com)

If rollback is unavailable, create Windows installation media on another PC, boot from it, select Repair your computer, and try Startup Repair; if needed, use Reset this PC and choose Keep my files. If BitLocker is enabled, have your recovery key ready. (support.microsoft.com)

Notes on earlier replies: ’s boot-order tip is useful when you intend to boot from installation media; otherwise, keep the internal drive first so you do not loop back to USB. And is right that installation media can repair or reinstall when an upgrade does not finish cleanly.

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Member Avatar for cereal

Hi,

enter the bios, change the start up order to read the USB media before than the primary disk, save and restart.

Here you can find more suggestions:

Bye!

Member Avatar for KushMishra

Hi, you can repair the Windows by using the USB media or inserting a Windows installation disk. Also, was the installation really completed because I doubt it would ask for the Windows files if the Windows was fully installed at the first place.

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