No Bootable Devices Found on Windows 10: A Comprehensive Guide

 



Experiencing the "No Bootable Devices Found" error on your Windows 10 computer can be stressful. This error means that your computer cannot find an operating system to boot from. The reasons for this error can range from a failed hard drive to a corrupt operating system installation. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to identify and rectify this error. Buckle up for an in-depth troubleshooting ride!


1. Understanding the Error.


When your computer starts, it looks for bootable devices such as a hard drive, SSD, USB, or a DVD that contains an operating system. If it can't find any, or if what it finds is not properly configured, it will display an error, such as "No Bootable Devices Found."


2. Preliminary Checks.


Before diving into deeper solutions, always start with these basic checks:

  • Physical Connections: Ensure that all cables, especially the ones connected to your hard drive or SSD, are securely plugged in.

  • External Devices: Disconnect all external devices, such as USB drives, printers, and other peripherals. Sometimes, the computer might be trying to boot from one of these devices erroneously.

  • BIOS/UEFI Settings: Access your computer's BIOS or UEFI settings (usually by pressing the F2, F10, or DEL key during startup) and ensure the boot order is correctly set, prioritizing your primary hard drive or SSD.


3. Solutions to Fix the Error.


a) Boot into Safe Mode

Sometimes, booting into Safe Mode can bypass the issue, allowing you to troubleshoot further.

  1. Restart your computer. As soon as it starts, repeatedly press the F8 key.

  2. From the Advanced Boot Options, select "Safe Mode."

  3. If Windows loads successfully, you may have driver conflicts or third-party software causing the issue.

b) Check Hard Drive Health

A failing hard drive can lead to boot problems.

  1. Boot from a live USB tool like Hiren's BootCD or an installation media.

  2. Run hard drive diagnostics using tools like CrystalDiskInfo or HD Tune.

  3. If the hard drive shows signs of failure, consider replacing it.

  4. Accumulation of bad sectors on the hard drive can prevent it from detecting any source of operational data while rebooting normally.

c) Use Windows Recovery Environment

The Windows Recovery Environment can help fix boot-related issues:

  1. Boot from a Windows 10 installation media.

  2. Click on "Repair your computer."

  3. Choose "Troubleshoot," then "Advanced options," and then "Startup Repair."

d) Fix Boot Records

Corrupt boot records can prevent Windows from starting:

  1. Boot from the Windows 10 installation media.

  2. Click "Repair your computer."

  3. Open the Command Prompt and run the following commands:
    bootrec /fixmbr

bootrec /fixboot

bootrec /scanos

bootrec /rebuildbcd

  1. Restart the computer.


e) System Restore

  1. Again, boot from the Windows 10 installation media.

  2. Navigate to "Troubleshoot," then "Advanced options," and select "System Restore."

  3. Follow the prompts to restore your system to a previous state.

f) Check for Hardware Issues

If none of the software solutions work, there might be a hardware issue.

  1. Memory Test: Boot from a tool like MemTest86 to check for RAM errors.

  2. Hard Drive Connections: If you're comfortable opening your computer, ensure that the hard drive or SSD's power and data cables are securely connected.

  3. Replace the CMOS Battery: A dead CMOS battery can cause boot issues. Consider replacing it if your computer is old.

g) Clean Install of Windows

If all else fails, you might have to reinstall Windows. Please remember to back up all your data using a live boot tool before proceeding.

  1. Boot from the Windows 10 installation media.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions to install a fresh copy of Windows.


4. Data Recovery: Your Essential Plan B

In some unfortunate scenarios, even after extensive troubleshooting, the primary focus shifts from boot rectification to data recovery. If you suspect substantial data loss or are unable to access your files, consider the following steps:

a) Live Boot Data Recovery

Use live boot utilities, like Ubuntu Live or Parted Magic, to access and transfer your files to an external drive.

  1. Create a live bootable USB drive.

  2. Boot your computer from the USB.

  3. Use the file manager within the live environment to access your hard drive and transfer essential files to an external storage device.

b) Data Recovery Software

There are several reliable data recovery tools available:

  1. Recuva: A user-friendly tool that can recover deleted files, even from damaged or newly formatted drives.

  2. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: Offers deep scan features to recover lost data from various data loss scenarios.

  3. Stellar Data Recovery: Known for its capability to recover data from critically damaged drives.

Always use such tools cautiously, as improper usage can lead to further data loss.


5. Preventive Measures: A Stitch in Time Saves Nine

To prevent facing such errors in the future or to mitigate their impact:

  1. Regular Backups: Use tools like Windows' built-in Backup and Restore or third-party software to create regular backups of your important data.

  2. Update Regularly: Ensure your operating system and drivers are always up-to-date. This can help in preventing software conflicts and errors.

  3. Healthy Practices: Avoid abruptly shutting down your computer, and always use quality surge protectors to shield from power fluctuations.


 Wrapping Up

Encountering the "No Bootable Devices Found" error on Windows 10 is indeed a daunting experience, but with patience and systematic troubleshooting, most issues can be resolved. And even in scenarios where the focus shifts to data recovery, having a strategic approach can save invaluable data.

In the vast realm of computing, such errors are a reminder of the importance of preventive measures. Regular backups, system health checks, and timely updates ensure a smooth computing experience, providing a safety net against unforeseen system failures. Armed with this knowledge, you are better equipped to face, resolve, and prevent such issues in the future. Safe computing!


Source : https://sites.google.com/view/windows-fix/articles/no-bootable-devices-found-on-windows-10

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