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FIX: No boot device available on Windows 10/11
9 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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If you get the error messageNo boot device availablein Windows 10, you can follow the tutorial posted below and find out how to fix theNo boot device available/No boot device foundissue.
You will also need to follow the methods in the order they are posted to minimize your debug time on the Windows 10 device.
First of all, before you begin, you will need a DVD or an external memory like aUSB device with Windows 10 on itto be able to boot from it. Also make sure the CD/DVD you have with Windows 10 is not damaged in any way thus preventing any errors in the boot process.
No Boot Device Availablemessage can be a big problem, and in this article we’re going to show you how to fix the following issues:
On a side note, this specific error often occurs shortly after migrating from Windows 7 to Windows 10. But it can also occur after installing the latest Windows 10 updates. Judging by the number of reports we’ve come across, Dell computers are particularly affected by this issue. You can use the troubleshooting guide below both for Dell computers, as well as other computer brands.
No boot device found: How to fix this error
Solution 1 – Run Automatic repair
Solution 2 – Run the troubleshooter
Several users claim that you can the problem withNo boot device availablemessage simply by running the troubleshooter. If you can’t access Windows normally, you might want to try this solution from Safe Mode.
Keep in mind that this isn’t a universal solution, so it might not work for you.
Solution 3 – Run SFC scan
If you’re having trouble accessing Command Prompt as an admin, then you bettertake a closer look on this guide.
If you can’t access your Windows 10 at all, you can run Command Prompt from Advanced Boot Menu. To do that, simply restart your PC couple of times. Now selectTroubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
When Command Prompt starts, you need to run the following commands:
chkdsk is giving you headaches? Check outthis quick guideto any issues with it.
If those two commands can’t fix the problem, you might have to use DISM scan instead. To do that, just run thisDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthcommand.
If the previous command doesn’t work, try using the following commands instead:
These commands will check for file corruption and fix any corrupted files on your hard drive that might prevent Windows from booting. Keep in mind that this isn’t a universal solution, so it might not work if the problem is caused by your hardware.
Solution 4 – Make sure you’re using UEFI
Many users reportedNo Boot Device Availablemessage after a BIOS update. If you’re getting this error message, the problem might be related to your BIOS. To fix the issue, you need to switch from BIOS to UEFI.
This is a simple process, and in order to do it, you just have to enter BIOS and change a single setting. Since there are many different versions of BIOS, we strongly advise you to check your motherboard manual and see how to switch permanently to UEFI.
After doing that, the error message should be resolved and your PC should start working again.
Solution 5 – Check for loose cables
Sometimes you might getNo Boot Device Availablemessage if your components aren’t connected properly. To fix this problem, you need to power down your PC, disconnect it from power outlet and open your computer case.
After doing that, be sure to check all SATA cables and make sure that they are tightly connected to your motherboard and to yourhard drive. Several users reported that this problem occurred because their SATA cables weren’t firmly connected to their motherboard.
After connecting everything properly, the issue should be completely resolved.
Solution 6 – Disconnect USB peripherals
Users reported thatNo Boot Device Availablemessage can be caused by yourUSB devices. According to users, they were unable to boot to their PC, but after disconnecting their USB devices, the issue was resolved.
Several users reported that their USBkeyboardandmousewere the problem, so be sure to disconnect them as well. If your mouse or keyboard are the cause of the problem, try replacing them and check if that solves the issue.
Solution 7 – Set your hard drive as first boot device
According to usersNo Boot Device Availablemessage can appear if your hard drive isn’t set as the first boot device. However, you can easily fix this issue simply by going toBootsection in BIOS.
From there you need to findFirst Boot Devicesetting and set it to your hard drive. After doing that, the issue should be resolved.
Several users are recommending to turn off Secure Boot feature, so you might want to do that as well. You can also try changing theBoot Modefrom UEFI toLegacyto see if it helps.
If you want to know how to enable Legacy Boot on Windows 10,take a look at this nifty guidethat will help you do it.
After making these changes, the issue should be completely resolved. To see how to find and change these settings, we strongly suggest that you check your motherboard manual for detailed instructions.
Solution 8 – Fix your MBR
Sometimes damaged MBR can causeNo Boot Device Availablemessage to appear. To fix the issue, you need to start Command Prompt like we showed you inSolution 3and run the following commands:
If those commands don’t work, try using these commands instead:
After running these commands, check if your problem is resolved.
The eight methods above are all but sufficient to get yourNo boot device availablemessage out of the Windows 10 system.
Keep in mind though that you need to follow them in the order they are presented and also be sure not to skip any of the steps presented.
If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below and we’ll be sure to take a look.
More about the topics:boot errors,windows 10
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.