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How to Fix the NTLDR Is Missing Error in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you see the “NTLDR is missing” error on your Windows 11 PC, it means your computer cannot find the necessary boot file to start the operating system. This problem usually appears during startup, preventing Windows from loading correctly.

Don’t worry—this issue can be fixed with some simple steps. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow this guide. We will walk through easy methods to get your PC back up and running.

This article covers everything from quick checks to more advanced fixes. By the end, you should understand why the error happens and how to resolve it effectively.

Let’s get started and fix the NTLDR missing error on your Windows 11 computer step by step.

Quick Note Before You Start

Before diving into solutions, here are some important things to check:

  • Check your boot order: Ensure your PC is trying to boot from the correct hard drive or SSD where Windows 11 is installed.
  • Remove external drives: Disconnect any USB drives, CDs, or DVDs that might interfere with the boot process.
  • Have Windows 11 installation media ready: Some fixes require a USB or DVD with Windows 11 setup files. If you don’t have one, you can create it from another working PC using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool.
  • Backup important data: If possible, back up your files before attempting fixes that involve disk operations.

Step 1: Restart Your PC

Sometimes, the error appears due to a temporary glitch. Simply restarting your computer can resolve minor boot issues. Click the power button, select “Restart,” and watch if the error disappears.

If the error persists, move on to the next steps.

Step 2: Check Your BIOS Boot Order

The BIOS (Basic Input Output System) controls which device your PC uses to start. If the boot order is incorrect, your PC might try to load Windows from a wrong device, causing the NTLDR error.

  1. Turn off your computer completely.
  2. Turn it back on and immediately press the BIOS key repeatedly. This key varies by manufacturer but is usually F2, Del, or Esc. Check your PC manual if unsure.
  3. Once in BIOS, navigate to the Boot tab using arrow keys.
  4. Make sure the hard drive or SSD with Windows 11 is set as the first boot device.
  5. Save changes and exit BIOS (usually by pressing F10 and confirming).

Restart your PC and check if Windows boots normally.

Step 3: Remove Non-Bootable Media

If you have a USB flash drive, external hard drive, or CD/DVD connected, your PC might try to boot from it instead of your main drive. This can cause the NTLDR error.

Simply unplug all external drives and restart your computer. This forces the PC to boot from the correct internal drive.

Step 4: Use Windows 11 Installation Media to Repair Startup

If the error remains, you will need Windows 11 installation media to repair your system files. This tool helps fix corrupted or missing boot files like NTLDR.

  1. Insert your Windows 11 USB or DVD and restart your PC.
  2. When prompted, press any key to boot from the installation media.
  3. Select your language and keyboard preferences, then click Next.
  4. Click Repair your computer in the lower-left corner.
  5. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions. Windows will attempt to fix boot-related problems automatically.

After the repair process finishes, restart your PC and check if the error is gone.

Step 5: Rebuild the Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

If startup repair doesn’t fix the issue, rebuilding the Boot Configuration Data (BCD) can help. BCD is a database that tells your PC where Windows is located.

  1. Boot from your Windows 11 installation media again.
  2. Go to Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
  3. In the command prompt window, type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd

The bootrec /fixmbr command repairs the Master Boot Record, while bootrec /fixboot writes a new boot sector. The /scanos scans for installed Windows, and /rebuildbcd rebuilds the boot configuration.

Once complete, type exit and press Enter, then restart your computer.

Step 6: Copy NTLDR and NTDETECT.COM Files Manually

In rare cases, the actual NTLDR and NTDETECT.COM files might be missing or corrupted. You can copy these files from the Windows installation media to your system drive.

  1. Boot into the Windows installation media and open Command Prompt as described earlier.
  2. Identify your system drive letter by typing diskpart and then list volume. Look for the drive with your Windows installation (usually C: or D:).
  3. Exit diskpart by typing exit.
  4. Copy the files using these commands (replace C: with your actual system drive letter if different):
copy D:i386ntldr C:
copy D:i386ntdetect.com C:

Here, D: is the installation media drive letter. Adjust if yours differs.

After copying, type exit and restart your PC.

Alternative Advanced Method: Use System Restore

If you previously created a restore point, you can use System Restore to revert your PC to a working state before the error occurred.

  1. Boot from Windows 11 installation media and go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
  2. Follow the wizard to select a restore point and restore your system.
  3. Once done, restart your computer.

This can fix software-related issues that cause the NTLDR error.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the “NTLDR is missing” error in Windows 11?

This error usually happens when the boot loader files are missing, corrupted, or when your PC tries to boot from a non-bootable device.

Can I fix this error without a Windows installation disk?

Some basic steps like checking boot order or removing external drives don’t require installation media. However, repairing boot files usually needs Windows installation media.

Is the NTLDR error common on Windows 11?

It is less common on Windows 11 compared to older versions, but it can still happen due to disk errors, incorrect BIOS settings, or corrupted system files.

Will fixing this error delete my files?

Most repair steps do not delete your personal data. However, it’s always a good idea to back up important files if possible before attempting repairs.

What if I don’t have installation media?

You can create Windows 11 installation media easily using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool on another working PC.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face the “NTLDR is missing” error, consider the following final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support website for personalized help and troubleshooting guides.
  • Consult a professional technician: Hardware issues like a failing hard drive can cause boot errors. A technician can diagnose and repair hardware problems.
  • Reinstall Windows 11: As a last resort, a clean installation of Windows 11 may be necessary. This will erase existing data, so ensure you have backups.

Conclusion

The “NTLDR is missing” error in Windows 11 can be intimidating, but it is usually fixable with a few straightforward steps. Start by checking your boot order and removing any external drives. Use the Windows 11 installation media to repair startup problems or rebuild the boot configuration data if needed.

Copying missing files manually or using System Restore can also help resolve the issue. Always back up your data before performing repairs, and seek professional help if hardware problems are suspected.

By following this guide carefully, you should be able to get your Windows 11 PC booting normally again without hassle.

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