Troubleshoot Windows could not finish configuring the system

This article provides steps to resolve issues where the Sysprep process prevents the booting of an Azure virtual machine (VM).

Symptom

When you use Boot diagnostics to view the screenshot of the VM, you will see that the screenshot displays an Install Windows error while Windows setup is starting services. The error will display the message:

Windows could not finish configuring the system. To attempt to resume configuration, restart the computer. Setup is starting services.

Cause

This error is caused when the operating system (OS) is unable to complete the Sysprep process. This error will occur when you attempt an initial boot of a generalized VM. If you encounter this issue, recreate the generalized image, as the image is in an un-deployable state and cannot be recovered.

Solution

To fix this issue, follow the Azure guidance on preparing/capturing an image and prepare a new generalized image.

Contact us for help

If you have questions or need help, create a support request, or ask Azure community support. You can also submit product feedback to Azure feedback community.