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Why Does My Windows Server 2012 R2 Keep Restarting: Troubleshooting and Solutions
Why Does My Windows Server 2012 R2 Keep Restarting: Troubleshooting and Solutions
Windows Server 2012 R2 is a powerful platform that requires proper maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure its stability and performance. However, one common issue that administrators face is the unexpected restart or crashing of the server. This article will explore several possible causes for this issue and provide detailed troubleshooting steps and solutions.
Misinstallation of New Updates
One of the prevalent reasons behind a Windows Server 2012 R2 restart is the misinstallation or failure to properly install new updates. These updates are essential for security, bug fixes, and performance improvements. If the updates are not correctly installed, they can cause the server to malfunction, leading to unexpected restarts.
Review Update Installation Logs: Check the Windows Update installation logs to identify if any updates failed to install. You can access these logs through the 'Troubleshoot' tool in the Update and Security settings. Rollback Failed Updates: Use the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tools to scan for and fix corrupted files. Run the following commands from an elevated command prompt:sfc /scannowdism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
After running these commands, restart the server and check the system stability.
Missing or Damaged Startup Files
Another common cause of server restarts is the missing or damaged startup files, which are essential for booting the operating system.
Check for Missing Files: Use the System File Checker (SFC) to locate and replace missing system files. Run the following command from an elevated command prompt:sfc /scannow
This command will scan the system files and replace any missing or corrupted files with the correct ones.
Repair Boot Files: If the issue persists, it could be due to damaged startup files. You can use the Startup Repair tool to automatically repair the startup files. Boot into the Windows RE (Repair Environment) and select 'Troubleshoot' 'Advanced Options' 'Startup Repair' option. Manual Repair: If Startup Repair is not sufficient, you can manually repair the files using the DISM tool. Run the following commands from an elevated command prompt in Windows RE:dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
Missing Boot Media or Incorrect Drive Pointing
Sometimes, the server might restart due to a missing boot media or incorrect drive pointing to the boot media. This can occur if the Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE) files are missing or the boot settings are incorrect.
Check Boot Files: Verify if the boot files are present. Boot into the Windows RE and check if the C:WindowsSystem32Recovery directory contains the necessary boot files. If they are missing, you may need to repair or reinstall the recovery files. Verify Boot Settings: Use the bootrec tool to diagnose and rectify any issues with the boot configuration. Boot into Windows RE and run the following commands from an elevated command prompt:bootrec /fixmbrbootrec /fixbootbootrec /scanosbootrec /rebuildbcd
These commands will help you repair the boot files and recreate the BCD (Boot Configuration Database).
Conclusion
Unexpected restarts can be frustrating, but by applying the troubleshooting steps mentioned above, you can resolve the issue and ensure the stability and performance of your Windows Server 2012 R2. Regularly checking for updates, monitoring system health, and maintaining proper boot files are critical for preventing such issues.
Keywords:
Windows Server 2012 R2, restart issues, server stability, Windows updates, startup files