The INACCESSIBLE BOOT DEVICE error, commonly known as the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), can be a significant hurdle for users of Windows 10 and Windows 11. This error typically arises when the operating system is unable to access the system partition during the boot process, often due to complications related to the hard drive, drivers, or corrupted system files. Fortunately, there are several methods available to address this issue and restore your computer’s functionality.
What Causes the INACCESSIBLE BOOT DEVICE Error?
The INACCESSIBLE BOOT DEVICE BSOD can stem from a variety of factors, including:
- Corrupted or missing system files.
- Faulty drivers, particularly following a Windows update or driver installation.
- Issues with boot configuration data (BCD).
- Problems with the hard drive or SSD, such as disk errors or corruption.
- Incorrect or missing BIOS settings.
To effectively resolve the issue, let’s explore several methods.
Method 1: Restart the Computer in Safe Mode
Booting Windows in Safe Mode allows you to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem by loading only essential drivers and services.
Step 1: Access the Advanced Startup Options
- Power on your computer. If the BSOD reappears, restart the PC and interrupt the boot process three times consecutively (press the power button as soon as the Windows logo is visible).
- After the third interruption, Windows will display the Automatic Repair screen.
- Select Advanced Options > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
- Click Restart, and when the Startup Settings menu appears, press 4 or F4 to start in Safe Mode.
Step 2: Uninstall Recent Updates or Drivers
Once in Safe Mode:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security > View update history > Uninstall updates.
- If the issue began following a recent update, consider uninstalling it to check if that resolves the problem.
Alternatively, if new hardware drivers were installed, you can uninstall them:
- Open Device Manager by pressing Windows + X and selecting Device Manager.
- Locate the recently installed driver, right-click it, and select Uninstall.
Restart your computer to determine if the issue persists.
Method 2: Run a Check Disk (CHKDSK) Command
Corruption or bad sectors on the hard drive can trigger the INACCESSIBLE BOOT DEVICE error. Utilizing the CHKDSK command can help identify and rectify these issues.
Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode (or use Advanced Startup Options)
If you are unable to boot into Safe Mode:
- Employ the Advanced Startup method described earlier to access the Command Prompt via Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
Step 2: Run the CHKDSK Command
- In the Command Prompt, input the following command and press Enter:
chkdsk C: /f /rMake sure to replace C: with the appropriate drive letter if Windows is installed on a different partition.
- The system will scan the drive for errors and attempt repairs. This process may take some time, depending on the drive’s size and condition.
- After the scan completes, restart your PC and check if the BSOD issue is resolved.
Method 3: Repair Boot Configuration Data (BCD)
Corrupted or missing Boot Configuration Data (BCD) can lead to boot complications. You can rebuild the BCD using the Command Prompt.
Step 1: Access the Command Prompt
- Boot into Advanced Startup Options as previously outlined.
- Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
Step 2: Rebuild the BCD
- In the Command Prompt, enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd- Once the commands have executed, restart your computer to see if the issue is resolved.
Method 4: Update or Reinstall Drivers
Outdated or corrupt drivers, particularly disk or storage controller drivers, can trigger the INACCESSIBLE BOOT DEVICE error. Updating or reinstalling these drivers may rectify the issue.
Step 1: Enter Safe Mode
Follow the previously mentioned steps to boot into Safe Mode.
Step 2: Update Disk or Storage Drivers
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers or Storage controllers section.
- Right-click on each device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software and allow Windows to search for updates.
If no updates are found, consider visiting your motherboard or computer manufacturer’s website to manually download the latest drivers.
Method 5: Reset BIOS or UEFI Settings
Occasionally, incorrect BIOS or UEFI settings can hinder your computer’s ability to access the boot device. Resetting your BIOS or UEFI to its default settings may resolve this issue.
Step 1: Access BIOS/UEFI
- Restart your computer and press the BIOS/UEFI key (usually Delete, Esc, F2, or F12) to enter the BIOS/UEFI menu.
- Within the BIOS, locate an option like Load Default Settings or Reset to Default (the terminology may vary based on your motherboard).
- After resetting, save the changes and restart your computer.
Method 6: Perform a System Restore
If the INACCESSIBLE BOOT DEVICE error has emerged recently, executing a System Restore can revert your system to a prior state where functionality was intact.
Step 1: Access System Restore
- Boot into the Advanced Startup Options menu as previously described.
- Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
- Select a restore point from a date prior to the onset of the BSOD issue, and follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system.
Method 7: Reset Your PC
If all other methods fail, you may consider performing a Reset of Windows 10 or 11. This process will reinstall Windows, allowing you to choose whether to keep or delete your files.
Step 1: Access Reset Options
- Boot into Advanced Startup Options.
- Navigate to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
- Select either Keep my files (to retain personal files) or Remove everything (for a complete reset).
- Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your computer.
