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How to Fix “Boot Device Not Found” Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Seeing the “Boot Device Not Found” error on your Windows 11 PC can be frustrating. This message usually means your computer can’t find the hard drive or SSD that has your operating system. Without resolving this, your PC won’t start properly.

Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to fix this problem. These steps range from checking hardware connections to adjusting system settings. Following this guide will help you get your PC back to normal.

It’s important to understand why this error appears. It can be caused by hardware issues, BIOS settings, or corrupted files. Knowing this helps you approach the solution carefully.

Let’s walk through the troubleshooting process from the easiest fixes to more advanced solutions.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

  • Make sure your PC is completely turned off before opening it or checking hardware.
  • Have a screwdriver ready if you need to open the case to check hardware connections.
  • Backup important data regularly to avoid data loss during troubleshooting.
  • Be patient—some steps may take time, like BIOS updates or system scans.

Step 1: Check Your Physical Connections

Sometimes, the simplest cause is a loose or disconnected cable. Inside your computer, the hard drive or SSD connects to the motherboard with cables. If these cables come loose, the system won’t detect the drive.

  1. Turn off your PC and unplug it from the power source.
  2. Open the computer case carefully using a screwdriver if needed.
  3. Locate the hard drive or SSD and check both the power cable and data cable connections.
  4. Make sure cables are fully plugged in and secure.
  5. Close the case, plug the PC back in, and turn it on.

Why this matters: A loose connection can prevent your BIOS from detecting your drive, causing the “Boot Device Not Found” error.

Step 2: Check BIOS/UEFI Settings

The BIOS (or UEFI) is firmware that tells your PC how to start. It must detect your drive to load Windows 11. Sometimes, BIOS settings get changed accidentally or after updates.

  1. Restart your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI setup. Usually, this involves pressing a key like F2, Delete, or Esc immediately after turning on the PC. Check your PC’s manual if unsure.
  2. Once in BIOS, look for a section called Boot or Boot Order.
  3. Check if your hard drive or SSD is listed as a boot device.
  4. If not listed, your BIOS may not detect the drive — consider hardware issues or try reseating the drive.
  5. If listed, make sure it is set as the first boot device.
  6. Save changes and exit BIOS.

Why this matters: If the BIOS doesn’t recognize your drive or if the boot order is wrong, Windows won’t start.

Step 3: Run Windows Startup Repair

If your PC can’t boot Windows but the drive is detected, there might be a problem with system files. Windows Startup Repair is a built-in tool that can fix boot-related issues.

  1. Turn off your PC.
  2. Turn it on and interrupt the boot process by turning it off again when the Windows logo appears. Repeat this 2-3 times.
  3. After repeated interruptions, Windows will boot into Automatic Repair mode.
  4. Choose Advanced options, then Troubleshoot, and select Startup Repair.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process.

Why this matters: Startup Repair can fix missing or corrupted files that prevent Windows from booting.

Step 4: Use Command Prompt for Advanced Repairs

If Startup Repair doesn’t work, you can try repairing your boot files manually using Command Prompt.

  1. Access the Advanced options menu as described in Step 3.
  2. Select Command Prompt.
  3. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd

These commands repair the Master Boot Record (MBR) and rebuild the Boot Configuration Data (BCD), which are essential for booting.

After completing these commands, type exit and restart your PC.

Step 5: Check for Drive Health Issues

If your PC still shows the error, the hard drive or SSD might be failing.

  • You can use tools like CrystalDiskInfo to check drive health once you can boot from another device or external media.
  • If the drive shows many bad sectors or errors, consider replacing it.

Why this matters: A damaged drive cannot be read properly, leading to boot errors.

Alternative Method: Reset BIOS to Default Settings

If BIOS settings seem complicated or might be incorrect, you can reset them to factory defaults.

  1. Enter BIOS/UEFI as described in Step 2.
  2. Look for an option like Load Setup Defaults or Reset to Default.
  3. Select this option, save changes, and exit.

This can fix misconfigurations that cause boot problems.

FAQs

What causes the “Boot Device Not Found” error?

This error usually happens due to loose hardware connections, BIOS misconfiguration, corrupted system files, or a failing hard drive/SSD.

Can I fix this error without opening my PC?

Yes, you can start by checking BIOS settings and running Windows Startup Repair. But if the drive isn’t detected, you may need to check physical connections.

Will resetting BIOS erase my data?

No, resetting BIOS only changes firmware settings. It does not affect the data on your hard drive or SSD.

Is it safe to run the Command Prompt commands for fixing boot files?

Yes, these commands are standard troubleshooting tools. However, be sure to follow instructions carefully.

What if my drive is failing?

If the drive is damaged, back up your data as soon as possible and consider replacing the drive to avoid data loss.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the steps above and still face the error, it might be time to seek professional help. Contact the PC manufacturer’s support or a trusted repair technician.

You can also visit the official Microsoft support page for further assistance: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows.

In some cases, reinstalling Windows 11 might be necessary if system files are severely corrupted.

Conclusion

The “Boot Device Not Found” error on Windows 11 can be caused by simple hardware issues or more complex software problems. By following the steps in this guide—from checking connections and BIOS settings to running repairs—you can identify and fix the problem.

Always start with the easiest fixes and move to advanced methods if needed. Remember to keep backups of your important data to avoid loss during troubleshooting.

With patience and careful work, your PC should be able to boot normally again.

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