Windows 10 Boot Device Not Found: Causes and Solutions

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Are you frustrated with the “Boot Device Not Found” error on your Windows 10 system? This error can be quite disconcerting, especially if you’re not tech-savvy. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll delve into the causes of this error and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it.

The Causes of Windows 10 Boot Device Not Found Error

Before we dive into the solutions, it’s essential to understand what might be causing the “Boot Device Not Found” error on your Windows 10 system. Here are some of the common culprits:

Corrupted Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

One of the most common reasons for this error is a corrupted Boot Configuration Data (BCD). BCD is a critical component that helps Windows 10 boot up correctly. If it gets corrupted, Windows 10 won’t be able to find the boot device, resulting in this error.

Missing or Corrupted System Files

Another reason for this error is missing or corrupted system files. When essential system files are damaged or missing, Windows 10 won’t be able to boot up correctly, leading to the “Boot Device Not Found” error.

Incorrect BIOS Settings

Incorrect BIOS settings can also cause this error. If the BIOS settings are not configured correctly, Windows 10 might not be able to find the boot device.

Faulty Hard Drive or SSD

A faulty hard drive or SSD can also cause this error. If the hard drive or SSD is failing or has failed, Windows 10 won’t be able to boot up correctly.

UEFI Firmware Issues

UEFI firmware issues can also lead to the “Boot Device Not Found” error. If the UEFI firmware is outdated or corrupted, it can cause problems with the boot process.

Solutions to Fix Windows 10 Boot Device Not Found Error

Now that we’ve identified the causes, let’s move on to the solutions. Here are some step-by-step solutions to fix the “Boot Device Not Found” error on your Windows 10 system:

Solution 1: Run the Automatic Repair Tool

The first solution is to run the Automatic Repair Tool. This tool can help fix common boot issues, including the “Boot Device Not Found” error. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Insert the Windows 10 installation media and restart your system.
  2. Press the key to access the boot menu (usually F2, F12, or Del).
  3. Select the language and other preferences, and then click on “Next.”
  4. Click on “Repair your computer” and then “Troubleshoot.”
  5. Click on “Advanced options” and then “Automatic Repair.”
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process.

Solution 2: Run the BootRec Command

The BootRec command can help fix boot issues, including the “Boot Device Not Found” error. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Insert the Windows 10 installation media and restart your system.
  2. Press the key to access the boot menu (usually F2, F12, or Del).
  3. Select the language and other preferences, and then click on “Next.”
  4. Click on “Repair your computer” and then “Troubleshoot.”
  5. Click on “Advanced options” and then “Command Prompt.”
  6. Type the following command and press Enter: “bootrec /fixmbr”
  7. Type the following command and press Enter: “bootrec /fixboot”
  8. Type the following command and press Enter: “bootrec /scanos”
  9. Type the following command and press Enter: “bootrec /rebuildbcd”
  10. Exit the Command Prompt and restart your system.

Solution 3: Check BIOS Settings

Incorrect BIOS settings can cause the “Boot Device Not Found” error. Here’s how to check and configure the BIOS settings:

  1. Restart your system and press the key to access the BIOS setup (usually F2, F12, or Del).
  2. Navigate to the “Boot” tab and ensure that the hard drive or SSD is set as the first boot device.
  3. Save the changes and exit the BIOS setup.
  4. Restart your system to see if the error is resolved.

Solution 4: Run the Check Disk (chkdsk) Command

The Check Disk (chkdsk) command can help fix corrupted system files and fix the “Boot Device Not Found” error. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Insert the Windows 10 installation media and restart your system.
  2. Press the key to access the boot menu (usually F2, F12, or Del).
  3. Select the language and other preferences, and then click on “Next.”
  4. Click on “Repair your computer” and then “Troubleshoot.”
  5. Click on “Advanced options” and then “Command Prompt.”
  6. Type the following command and press Enter: “chkdsk C: /f”
  7. Replace “C:” with the drive letter of your system drive (usually C:).
  8. Wait for the command to complete and then restart your system.

Solution 5: Rebuild the BCD

A corrupted BCD can cause the “Boot Device Not Found” error. Here’s how to rebuild the BCD:

  1. Insert the Windows 10 installation media and restart your system.
  2. Press the key to access the boot menu (usually F2, F12, or Del).
  3. Select the language and other preferences, and then click on “Next.”
  4. Click on “Repair your computer” and then “Troubleshoot.”
  5. Click on “Advanced options” and then “Command Prompt.”
  6. Type the following command and press Enter: “bootrec /export C:\\boot\\bcd backup”
  7. Type the following command and press Enter: “ren C:\\boot\\bcd bcd.old”
  8. Type the following command and press Enter: “bootrec /rebuildbcd”
  9. Wait for the command to complete and then restart your system.

Solution 6: Perform a System Restore

If you’ve made recent changes to your system, you can try performing a System Restore to fix the “Boot Device Not Found” error. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Insert the Windows 10 installation media and restart your system.
  2. Press the key to access the boot menu (usually F2, F12, or Del).
  3. Select the language and other preferences, and then click on “Next.”
  4. Click on “Repair your computer” and then “Troubleshoot.”
  5. Click on “Advanced options” and then “System Restore.”
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the System Restore process.

Conclusion

The “Boot Device Not Found” error on Windows 10 can be frustrating, but it’s not the end of the world. By trying out the above solutions, you should be able to fix the error and get your system up and running again. Remember to always back up your important data regularly to prevent data loss in case of system crashes or errors.

Remember, if none of the above solutions work, it’s possible that there’s a hardware issue with your system, and you may need to seek professional help or contact the manufacturer for further assistance.

What is the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10?

The “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10 is a critical system error that occurs when the operating system is unable to detect the boot device, which is typically the hard drive or solid-state drive that contains the Windows 10 installation. This error can be triggered by a variety of factors, including corrupted system files, malfunctioning hardware, and improper boot settings.

The error is often accompanied by a black screen and a prompt to insert a boot device, which can be frustrating and difficult to resolve. However, by identifying the underlying cause of the error, you can take steps to repair or replace the faulty component and get your system up and running again.

What are the common causes of the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10?

The “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10 can be caused by a range of factors, including hardware issues, software problems, and configuration errors. Some common causes include a faulty or disconnected hard drive or solid-state drive, a corrupted boot record or master boot record, a malfunctioning BIOS or UEFI firmware, and incorrect boot settings. Additionally, the error can also be triggered by a recent software or driver update that has caused a conflict with the system’s boot process.

In some cases, the error may be caused by a more serious underlying issue, such as a faulty motherboard or a failing power supply. In these cases, the error may be a symptom of a larger problem that requires professional diagnosis and repair.

How do I fix the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10 using the Windows Recovery Environment?

To fix the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10 using the Windows Recovery Environment, you’ll need to access the Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE) and run the Automatic Repair tool. To do this, restart your system and immediately start tapping the F11 key to access Windows RE. From there, navigate to the Troubleshoot section and select the Automatic Repair option.

The Automatic Repair tool will scan your system for common problems that may be causing the “Boot Device Not Found” error and attempt to repair them automatically. If the tool is unable to fix the error, you may need to try more advanced troubleshooting steps or seek assistance from a professional technician.

Can I fix the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10 by resetting the BIOS or UEFI firmware?

Yes, resetting the BIOS or UEFI firmware can potentially fix the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10. To do this, restart your system and press the key to access the BIOS or UEFI settings (this key varies by manufacturer, but is often F2, F12, or Del). From there, navigate to the Save & Exit section and select the Load Default Options or Reset to Defaults option.

This will reset the BIOS or UEFI firmware to its default settings, which can help resolve configuration errors that may be causing the “Boot Device Not Found” error. However, be careful when making changes to the BIOS or UEFI settings, as incorrect changes can cause further problems with your system.

How do I fix the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10 by reinstalling Windows?

To fix the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10 by reinstalling Windows, you’ll need to create a Windows installation media (such as a USB drive or DVD) and boot from it. From there, follow the prompts to reinstall Windows 10, selecting the option to erase all files and reinstall Windows.

This will completely wipe your system and reinstall Windows 10 from scratch, which can help resolve software-related causes of the “Boot Device Not Found” error. However, be aware that this will erase all of your files and settings, so be sure to back up any important data before proceeding.

What are some basic troubleshooting steps I can take to fix the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10?

Before attempting more advanced troubleshooting steps, there are several basic steps you can take to try and fix the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10. First, try restarting your system and checking the connection of your hard drive or solid-state drive to ensure that it is securely connected. You can also try booting in Safe Mode to see if the error persists.

Additionally, you can try running a System File Checker (SFC) scan to check for corrupted system files, and use the Disk Check utility to scan your hard drive or solid-state drive for errors. These basic troubleshooting steps can help identify and potentially resolve the underlying cause of the error.

Is the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10 a serious problem that requires professional attention?

In some cases, the “Boot Device Not Found” error in Windows 10 may be a symptom of a more serious underlying problem that requires professional attention. If you’ve tried troubleshooting steps and are unable to resolve the error, or if you’re not comfortable attempting to fix the problem yourself, it may be best to seek assistance from a professional technician.

A professional technician will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of the error and provide recommendations for repair or replacement of faulty components. In some cases, the error may be a sign of a larger problem, such as a failing motherboard or power supply, that requires more extensive repair or replacement.

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