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How to Repair Bootloader in Windows?

Repairing the bootloader in Windows can be accomplished using the built-in Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE). Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Create a Windows Installation Media: If you don’t already have a Windows installation USB or DVD, you can create one using another computer. Download the Windows Media Creation Tool from the official Microsoft website and follow the instructions to create an installation media.

  2. Boot from Installation Media: Insert the USB or DVD into the computer with the boot issue and restart it. Enter the BIOS/UEFI settings to change the boot order so that the computer boots from the USB or DVD first.

  3. Access Windows Recovery Environment: When the computer boots from the installation media, select your language and other preferences, then click “Next” and then “Repair your computer.”

  4. Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt: In the Windows RE, navigate to “Troubleshoot,” then “Advanced options,” and finally “Command Prompt.”

  5. Repair the Bootloader: In the Command Prompt, type the following commands and press Enter after each:

    • bootrec /fixmbr - This command fixes the Master Boot Record.
    • bootrec /fixboot - This command writes a new boot sector.
    • bootrec /scanos - This command scans all disks for installations that are compatible with Windows.
    • bootrec /rebuildbcd - This command rebuilds the Boot Configuration Data.
  6. Restart Your Computer: After running these commands, type exit to close the Command Prompt and then click “Continue” to restart your computer normally.

Example: If your computer displays a message like “Bootmgr is missing” when you try to start it, running these commands in the Windows RE can resolve the issue by repairing or rebuilding the bootloader components.

For additional reliability and to ensure your data is safe during such operations, consider using cloud storage services like Tencent Cloud’s Object Storage COS to back up important files before making significant changes to your system.