Last Known Good

Selecting Last Known Good Configuration provides a way to recover from problems such as a newly added driver that may be incorrect for the hardware. It does not solve problems caused by corrupted or missing drivers or files.

If you suspect that loading a driver may cause a problem, wait at the logon screen long enough for the driver to load before attempting to log on. If an error or problem occurs, the system must be shut down before logging on. During the next restart, select Last Known Good Configuration.

Note: The Last Known Good profile is written immediately after each successful log on. If a user has logged on to the computer after the problem occurs and before attempting Last Known Good Configuration, it is ineffective, because the Last Known Good profile has been overwritten with the problematic profile.

Use the following steps to start the computer using the Last Known Good Configuration.

  1. Turn on the computer.

    Note: If you have a dual-boot or multiple-boot startup menu, use the arrow keys to select the installation that you need to access, and then press the ENTER key.

  2. After the Gateway BIOS logo appears, repeatedly press the F8 key. The Windows Advanced Options Menu opens.

  3. On the Windows Advanced Options Menu, use the arrow keys to select Last Known Good Configuration, and then press ENTER.

    Note: If the computer does not start properly, the Safe Mode screen appears. Last Known Good is also an option on that menu.