Bootloops

A bootloop is a condition where a device, typically a computer or smartphone, repeatedly restarts itself during the startup process without fully booting into its operating system. This creates a loop, as the device fails to complete the boot sequence and instead initiates a restart, only to encounter the same failure again.

The causes of bootloops can vary widely. On computers, common culprits include corrupted operating system files, faulty hardware components like RAM or the hard drive, or incorrect BIOS/UEFI settings. For smartphones and other mobile devices, bootloops are often triggered by software issues, such as a corrupted operating system update, incompatible third-party applications, or unsuccessful attempts to modify the device's firmware (e.g., rooting or installing custom ROMs). Malware infections can also lead to bootloops.

Diagnosing and resolving a bootloop often involves a process of elimination. For computers, this might include checking hardware connections, running memory diagnostics, or attempting a system restore. Mobile devices may require a factory reset, which erases all user data and returns the device to its original software state. In some cases, a bootloop may indicate a serious hardware failure that requires professional repair or replacement of the device. Recovery modes or special diagnostic tools are often used to access and manage the device's software when it cannot boot normally.