How to Fix “BOOTMGR is Missing” Error in Windows 10/11

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The “BOOTMGR is missing” error is a critical issue that prevents your computer from booting into Windows. This error usually indicates a problem with the boot configuration, which might be caused by a corrupted boot loader, faulty hardware, or incorrect BIOS settings. Resolving this issue is crucial to restore your system's functionality. This guide provides effective methods to fix the “BOOTMGR is missing” error in Windows 10 and 11.

How To Fix “BOOTMGR is missing” Error in windows 10 / 8.1 / 7

1. Check Boot Order in BIOS/UEFI

Incorrect boot order settings can cause the BOOTMGR error.

  • Access BIOS/UEFI:

    • Restart your computer and press the BIOS/UEFI access key (usually F2, F12, Del, or Esc) as soon as the computer starts. The key varies by manufacturer, so check your computer’s manual if unsure.

  • Check Boot Order:

    • In the BIOS/UEFI settings, navigate to the Boot menu.
    • Ensure that your primary hard drive or SSD, where Windows is installed, is set as the first boot device.

  • Save Changes:

    • Save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI. Your computer will restart.

2. Repair the Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

The Boot Configuration Data (BCD) might be corrupted, leading to the BOOTMGR error.

  • Boot from Windows Installation Media:

    • Insert your Windows installation media (USB/DVD) and restart your computer.
    • Boot from the installation media by selecting it as the boot device in the BIOS/UEFI settings.

  • Access Repair Options:

    • Select your language preferences and click “Next.”
    • Click on “Repair your computer” at the bottom left of the window.

  • Open Command Prompt:

    • Choose “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “Command Prompt.”

  • Rebuild BCD:

    • In the Command Prompt window, enter the following commands:
      bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd
    • Press Enter after each command and wait for the process to complete.

  • Restart Your Computer:

    • Close the Command Prompt and restart your computer to check if the issue is resolved.

3. Check and Repair Disk Errors

Disk errors can prevent Windows from booting properly.

  • Boot from Windows Installation Media:

    • Follow the same steps as in the previous section to access the Command Prompt.

  • Run CHKDSK Utility:

    • In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
      chkdsk C: /f /r
    • Replace C: with the drive letter where Windows is installed if it's different.

  • Allow the Scan to Complete:

    • CHKDSK will check and repair any errors on the disk. Once complete, restart your computer.

4. Perform a System Restore

System Restore can revert your system to a state before the error occurred.

  • Boot from Windows Installation Media:

    • Access the Command Prompt as described earlier.

  • Access System Restore:

    • In the Command Prompt window, type:
      rstrui.exe
    • Press Enter to open the System Restore utility.

  • Choose a Restore Point:

    • Follow the on-screen instructions to select a restore point from before the issue began.

  • Restore System:

    • Complete the restore process and restart your computer to see if the issue is resolved.

5. Check for Loose or Faulty Hardware

Hardware issues, such as a loose hard drive connection, can cause boot errors.

  • Turn Off Your Computer:

    • Power down your computer and unplug it from the power source.

  • Check Connections:

    • Open the computer case and check all internal connections, including the hard drive and power cables.
    • Ensure that all cables are securely connected.

  • Test Hardware:

    • If possible, test the hard drive or SSD in another computer to verify that it’s functioning properly.

6. Reset BIOS/UEFI to Default Settings

Incorrect BIOS/UEFI settings can prevent proper booting.

  • Access BIOS/UEFI:

    • Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI settings as described earlier.

  • Reset to Default:

    • Look for an option to “Load Default Settings,” “Load Optimized Defaults,” or similar.
    • Select this option and confirm to reset BIOS/UEFI settings to their default state.

  • Save Changes:

    • Save the changes and exit BIOS/UEFI. Restart your computer.

7. Reinstall Windows

As a last resort, reinstalling Windows can resolve persistent issues.

  • Backup Your Data:

    • If possible, back up your important data before proceeding.

  • Boot from Windows Installation Media:

    • Insert the installation media and restart your computer.

  • Perform a Clean Installation:

    • Select your language preferences and click “Next.”
    • Choose “Install now” and follow the prompts to perform a clean installation of Windows.

  • Complete the Installation:

    • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process. Your computer will restart several times during this process.

Conclusion

The “BOOTMGR is missing” error can disrupt your computer's ability to start up, but there are several methods to resolve it. By checking and adjusting BIOS/UEFI settings, repairing the boot configuration, checking for disk errors, performing a system restore, and inspecting hardware connections, you can address the underlying causes of the error. If these methods do not resolve the issue, a clean installation of Windows may be necessary. Following these steps should help you restore your system's boot functionality and get back to normal operation.


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