INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICEWindows Operating System

How to Fix INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE (Windows Operating System)

Quick Answer

The INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE error indicates that Windows has lost access to the boot device during startup. This often occurs after hardware changes, driver updates, or system updates. The fastest initial fix is to restart the system, as temporary glitches can sometimes resolve themselves.

What Causes This Error

Corrupted or outdated storage device drivers.
Hardware changes, such as installing a new hard drive or SSD, or changing boot mode in BIOS/UEFI.
Corrupted Windows system files or boot configuration data (BCD).
Faulty or disconnected storage drive cables.
BIOS/UEFI settings configured incorrectly, such as incorrect SATA mode (AHCI vs. IDE).
Pending Windows updates that require a specific boot sequence or driver initialization.

Step-by-Step Fixes

1Restart the System

If the error appears, allow the system to attempt an automatic restart.
If the system does not restart automatically, manually power off the computer by holding the power button for several seconds.
Wait for approximately 10-15 seconds.
Press the power button again to restart the computer.
Observe if the system boots into Windows successfully.

2Check Storage Device Connections

Power off the computer completely and unplug it from the power outlet.
Open the computer case. For laptops, consult the manufacturer's manual for accessing internal components.
Locate the storage drive (HDD or SSD) and inspect its data and power cables.
Ensure all cables are securely connected to both the drive and the motherboard/power supply. Disconnect and reconnect them to confirm a firm connection.
Close the computer case, plug it back in, and attempt to boot the system.

3Update or Roll Back Storage Controller Drivers

Boot the computer into Safe Mode. To do this, restart the PC while holding the Shift key, then navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart, and select option 4 or 5 for Safe Mode.
Once in Safe Mode, right-click the Start button and select 'Device Manager'.
Expand 'IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers' or 'Storage controllers'.
Right-click on the listed controller (e.g., 'Standard SATA AHCI Controller') and select 'Update driver'. Choose 'Search automatically for updated driver software'.
If updating does not resolve the issue, or if the system was working before a recent driver update, right-click the controller, select 'Properties', go to the 'Driver' tab, and click 'Roll Back Driver' if the option is available. Follow the on-screen prompts.
Restart the computer normally after performing the driver action.

4Change SATA Mode in BIOS/UEFI

Restart your computer and repeatedly press the designated key (e.g., F2, Del, F10, F12) to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility. The key varies by manufacturer.
Navigate to the 'Storage', 'Advanced', or 'Integrated Peripherals' section within the BIOS/UEFI settings.
Look for a setting related to 'SATA Mode', 'SATA Configuration', or 'AHCI Mode'.
If it is set to 'IDE', try changing it to 'AHCI'. If it is already 'AHCI', try changing it to 'IDE' or 'RAID' (if applicable to your setup).
Save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI. The system will restart automatically.

5Run System File Checker and DISM

Boot into the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). This can often be done by interrupting the boot process three times or by using a Windows installation media.
From WinRE, navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
In the Command Prompt, type 'sfc /scannow' and press Enter. Allow the scan to complete.
After SFC completes, type 'DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth' and press Enter. If you are in WinRE and not booted into Windows, use 'DISM /Image:C:\ /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth' (replace C:\ with your Windows drive letter if different).
Once both commands have finished, type 'exit' and restart your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE mean?

The INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE error indicates that the Windows operating system has lost access to the storage device from which it is trying to boot. This prevents the system from loading Windows successfully.

Can a loose cable cause INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE?

Yes, a loose or faulty data or power cable connecting your hard drive or SSD to the motherboard and power supply can cause the INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE error, as the system cannot communicate with the boot device.

Will reinstalling Windows fix INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE?

Reinstalling Windows is a drastic measure that will typically resolve the INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE error if it's caused by software corruption, such as a corrupted boot configuration or system files. However, it should be considered after trying other troubleshooting steps, as it involves data loss if not backed up.

Is INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE a hardware or software issue?

The INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE error can be caused by both hardware and software issues. Hardware causes include faulty drives or cables, while software causes include corrupted drivers, system files, or incorrect BIOS/UEFI settings.

How do I boot into Safe Mode if I get this error?

To boot into Safe Mode when encountering this error, you typically need to access the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). This can often be done by repeatedly interrupting the boot process (e.g., by powering off the PC during startup) three times. Once in WinRE, navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart, and then select option 4 or 5 for Safe Mode.