Network · medium

How to fixNETWORK-BOOT-FAIL

Network boot (PXE) failure

What this error means

Network boot (PXE) failure ranks as a medium-severity network adapter issue in our database. The system is attempting to boot from the network via PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) and failing, resulting in delays or 'BOOTMGR is missing' errors. This occurs when the network adapter is set as the first boot device and no PXE server is available, or when the DHCP server fails to provide a boot file path. See the troubleshooting steps below for the fix.

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
01Change boot order in BIOS to prioritize SSD/HDD over network
  1. Change boot order in BIOS to prioritize SSD/HDD over network
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
02Disable PXE boot in BIOS if not needed
  1. Disable PXE boot in BIOS if not needed
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
03Check NIC firmware for corruption
  1. Check NIC firmware for corruption
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

  • Network boot set as primary boot option incorrectly
  • No PXE server configured
  • Faulty NIC preventing normal boot