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Fix: Default Boot Device Missing or Boot Failed
Make sure you disconnect any USB device before starting your PC
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
When the Lenovo or Acer laptop cannot detect the boot device on startup, it displays theDefault Boot Device Missing or Boot Failed. Insert Recovery Media and Hit any key, Then Select Boot Manager to choose a new Boot Device or to Boot Recovery Mediamessage instead of the startup screen.
If you are encountering this error on your PC, follow this guide to fix it.
What causes the default boot device missing or boot failed error?
If you see the default boot device missing or boot failed error during system boot, one or more of the following is likely to be the cause:
Fortunately, you can fix the non-bootable Lenovo/Acer device by implementing the reliable fixes below.
How do I fix the default boot device missing error in Lenovo/Acer?
Before employing the methods listed below:
1. Change Boot Order and Boot Mode
Incorrect boot order and boot mode prevent Windows from booting successfully. Changing the BIOS settings can resolve this startup error in Lenovo and Acer devices.
2. Activate the primary partition
It is essential to set the primary partition as active otherwise, you will get the default boot device missing or boot failed error upon startup. You can also refer to this guide torebuild the boot partition on Windows.
3. Run Startup Repair
Now Startup Repair will scan your PC to diagnose the problem and resolve it. When the repair is completed, restart your computer, and hopefully, you will no longer get the default boot device missing or boot failed error.
If you getstuck in an automatic repair loop on Windows, the methods provided in this guide will help you deal with it.
4. Change the Store Controller Mode
Incorrect SATA emulation settings can cause errors of different sorts, including the default boot device missing or boot failed error during Windows PC startup.
You can try these methods to fix the default boot device missing or boot failed error on Acer/Lenovo laptops and those of other brands. If you get theACPI BIOS error on Windows PC, try the solutions provided in this guide.
If you have any questions or suggestions, let us know in the comments section below.
Loredana Harsana
Windows Software Expert
Loredana is a passionate writer with a keen interest in PC software and technology. She started off writing about mobile phones back when Samsung Galaxy S II was on top of the world and she fell in love with tech of all sorts.
Whenever she’s not at her work desk, you’ll find her enjoying refreshing tea flavors, spilling stories on paper, and listening to the radio.
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Loredana Harsana
Windows Software Expert
Loredana is a tech enthusiast who tackles mobility, privacy, and networking in easy-to follow guides for everyone.
