How to fix “INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE”. Step-by-Step Guide

How to Fix "INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE" Error: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn the causes and practical solutions for the "INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE" error. This includes adjusting BIOS SATA settings, running diagnostic tools like bootrec and chkdsk, checking hardware connections, repairing boot records, and using System Restore to revert to a functional state. Diagnose potential hardware failures and use advanced terminal commands to address boot issues effectively.

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Key Takeaways for Resolving “INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE” Error

Common Causes: Improper BIOS settings, damaged or corrupt boot records, file system errors, or hardware issues (RAM, SSD, or HDD).
Immediate Action: Adjust BIOS SATA mode to AHCI, use the Windows Repair tools, or run diagnostic commands like bootrec and chkdsk. Tools like MiniTool Partition Wizard can simplify diagnosing and repairing partition issues.
Hardware Check: Ensure all connections (e.g., SATA cables) are secure and not damaged.
Advanced Commands: Use bootrec and SFC commands to repair boot records and system files.
System Restore: Try restoring to a previously functional point if other fixes do not resolve the issue.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing the “INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE” Error

When your computer displays the “INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE” error, it means Windows can’t access the partition where your operating system resides. This guide will walk you through troubleshooting steps in an easy-to-follow, expert-backed sequence to help you resolve the issue.

Before starting: If you’ve recently installed any new hardware or software, consider disconnecting/removing it as a possible cause.

1. Check BIOS Settings

Set SATA Mode to AHCI

One of the common culprits for this error is improper SATA mode settings in BIOS. Switching the SATA controller mode from IDE to AHCI may resolve access issues.

Restart your computer and press the appropriate key to enter BIOS (usually F2, Delete, or Esc depending on your system).
Navigate to Storage Configuration or Advanced Settings (this may differ for different motherboard manufacturers).
Locate the SATA Mode option, and change it from IDE (or RAID) to AHCI.

Save and Exit BIOS, then reboot.

Some systems require a BIOS configuration reset after upgrading hardware, so this is an essential step.

Pro Tip: Always note your original BIOS settings before changing them so you can revert if needed.

2. Run Diagnostic Tools on SSD/HDD

If your system uses an SSD, running diagnostic tools specific to the SSD’s manufacturer can yield important information about its health. Alternatively, a universal solution like MiniTool ShadowMaker offers disk health monitoring and data backup features to safeguard against potential drive failure.

For example, for Kioxia SSD users, run the Kioxia SSD Utility Tool to check for issues such as bad sectors, read/write failures, or firmware updates.

Other manufacturers usually have similar tools for checking SSD integrity.

External Resource: You can download Kioxia’s diagnostic utility from their official website.

3. Boot from Windows Installation Media

If your PC refuses to boot, you’ll need to access recovery features by using a Windows 10/11 installation media (USB drive or DVD).

Create the Media: If you don’t have installation media, use the Windows Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB. Instructions can be found at the official Microsoft Website.
Plug in the media and reboot your PC.
When prompted, boot from the installation media (usually press F8, F12, or Esc to choose a boot device).

Once at the Language options screen, click Next.
Choose Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Command Prompt.

4. Use Bootrec Commands to Repair Your Bootloader

Windows’ bootloader may have become corrupted. Here’s how to fix it using Bootrec commands:

At the Command Prompt, type the following commands, pressing Enter after each to execute:
```
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd
```
These commands fix Master Boot Record (MBR) corruption and rebuild Boot Configuration Data (BCD).
Reboot your computer and check if Windows boots up without showing the “Inaccessible Boot Device” error.

Pro Tip: If the bootrec /fixboot command fails, it could be due to hidden system partitions. Consider using a dedicated partition tool to check partition attributes.

5. Check and Repair File System Errors with CHKDSK

Corrupted file systems are another frequent issue. You can use the chkdsk command to scan and repair integrity issues on the boot partition.

In the Command Prompt, type:
```
chkdsk C: /F /R
```
Replace C: with the drive letter where Windows is installed.
The /F switch fixes errors, and the /R switch locates bad sectors and attempts recovery.
Restart and see if the issue is resolved.

Warning: CHKDSK may take a significant amount of time depending on disk health and size.

6. Run SFC Command to Fix Corrupted System Files

The System File Checker (SFC) can fix corrupted system files, which might be causing the inaccessible boot device error.

At the Command Prompt, type:
```
sfc /SCANNOW /OFFBOOTDIR=C:\ /OFFWINDIR=C:\Windows
```
Again, replace C: if your Windows installation is on another drive letter.
This command checks the system files and replaces any corrupted files related to the OS boot sequence.

Pro Tip: The /OFFBOOTDIR and /OFFWINDIR options must point to a functional Windows installation. If unsure, run a dir command to confirm the correct drive letter.

7. Inspect for Damaged or Loose SATA Connections

Firstly, ensure all hardware is securely connected:

Power off your PC and carefully open your case.
Check SATA cables—ensure SATA and power cables connecting your HDD/SSD are properly seated and undamaged. Reseating or swapping out cables can immediately resolve connection issues.
On laptops, check that the drive hasn’t become dislodged.

Anecdote: I once resolved a persistent boot error by swapping out a faulty SATA cable that “appeared” fine but was causing intermittent failures.

8. Perform a System Restore

If you recently installed an update, driver, or application that might be causing the issue, System Restore can revert the system to a previous good state.

In Advanced Options, select System Restore.
Follow the on-screen instructions to restore the system using a previous restore point.

Keep in mind that this won’t delete personal files, but any changes made after the restore point will be undone (e.g., software installations).

Additional Troubleshooting Steps

Diagnose Hard Disk Health: Use third-party tools like CrystalDiskInfo to examine your HDD/SSD health. Any bad sectors or SMART errors could indicate an imminent drive failure.
Test RAM Modules: Corrupted RAM can cause blue screen errors, including INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic to test RAM modules for issues. You might need to reseat or replace faulty RAM.
Remove External Devices: USB devices like external hard drives, printers, or USB hubs can sometimes cause boot issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes the “INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE” error?

This error mainly occurs due to corrupted boot records, incorrect BIOS settings (like the wrong SATA mode), file system corruption, or failing SATA cables/hardware.

2. Can a Windows Update trigger the error?

Yes, sometimes a buggy update or driver change can affect how Windows accesses the boot device.

3. What if the BIOS settings are correct, but the error persists?

If BIOS settings like the SATA mode (AHCI) are correctly configured, using the bootrec commands or running System Restore often fixes the issue.

4. Will System Restore wipe my files?

No, System Restore only affects system and application files, not your personal files.

5. How do I check if my hard disk is failing?

Use diagnostic tools like CrystalDiskInfo or manufacturer-specific SSD tools (such as Kioxia SSD Utility) to check your disk health.

Remember, methodical troubleshooting will give you the most reliable results.

How to fix INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE. Step-by-Step Guide Download

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