Windows 10 Wont Boot, How To Fix Master Boot Record

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will address the common issue of a Windows 10 system that won't boot due to problems with the Master Boot Record (MBR). Fixing an MBR is more complex than repairing a GUID Partition Table (GPT), but it is entirely manageable with the right steps. This guide will provide you with a clear, step-by-step process to restore your system's boot functionality.

Step 1: Access Windows Recovery Environment

To start fixing the MBR, you first need to access the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

1. Boot your computer from a Windows installation media (USB or DVD).
2. When prompted, select Repair your computer.
3. Choose Troubleshoot.
4. Select Advanced options.
5. Click on Command Prompt.

Step 2: Recreate Boot Files

Once you have the Command Prompt open, you can recreate the boot files necessary for your computer to start.

1. Enter the following command to recreate the boot files:

   bcdboot {path to windows folder} /S {boot drive}
   

   • Replace {path to windows folder} with the drive letter of your Windows installation (usually C:\).
   • Replace {boot drive} with the letter of the drive you want to set as bootable (often the same as the Windows installation).

Step 3: Rebuild the Master Boot Record

If the previous step does not resolve the issue, you may need to rebuild the MBR.

1. To scan for Windows installations, type:

   bootrec /scanos
   

   • Note: This may fail, and that's okay.

2. If it fails, delete the Boot Configuration Data (BCD) by entering:

   del bcd
   

3. Next, run the following commands one by one:

   bootrec /fixmbr
   bootrec /fixboot
   bootrec /rebuildbcd
   

Step 4: Set the OS Partition Active

Lastly, ensure the correct partition is set as active.

1. Open Diskpart by typing:

   diskpart
   

2. List all disks:

   list disk
   

3. Select the disk containing your OS, replacing {os disk} with the appropriate disk number:

   sel disk {os disk}
   

4. List all volumes:

   list vol
   

5. Select the volume that corresponds to your OS, replacing {OS volume} with the correct volume number:

   sel vol {OS volume}
   

6. Set the selected volume as active:

   active
   

7. Exit Diskpart:

   exit
   

Conclusion

You have now completed the steps to fix the Master Boot Record on your Windows 10 system. If your computer still does not boot, you may need to consider other hardware-related issues or seek professional help. Regular backups and system updates can help prevent such problems in the future. Good luck, and hopefully, your system is up and running again!