Storage · critical

How to fixINACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE

Inaccessible boot device

What this error means

INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE is a critical-severity storage drive (SSD/HDD) problem. Windows cannot access the system disk at startup. Common triggers are changing SATA mode in BIOS and corrupt MBR/GPT. Use the steps below to track down and fix the cause.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Use instructions for your exact device and software version. If Windows cannot start, see the startup guide.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Check SATA/NVMe mode (AHCI vs RAID)
  1. Check SATA/NVMe mode (AHCI vs RAID)
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
02bootrec /fixboot
  1. bootrec /fixboot
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
03Startup Repair from USB
  1. Startup Repair from USB
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors

Possible causes

  • Defective disk
  • Changing SATA mode in BIOS
  • Corrupt MBR/GPT