How to Fix the Inaccessible Boot Device Error on Windows 10

Looking for ways to fix the Inaccessible Boot Device error on Windows 10?

One of the most convenient features Windows offers its users is to update the system automatically. This is a huge benefit, especially when a new version of OS is released. However, it often leads to the Inaccessible Boot Device error, turning your excitement into despair in a matter of seconds.

This is one of the most common Windows 10 errors and is depicted by a “Blue Screen of Death” or BSOD error with a stop code 0x0000007b. The issue reportedly occurs after a Windows startup and implies that Windows has failed to access the system partition. Consequently, your computer will require a restart.

The Inaccessible Boot Device error on Windows 10 is usually caused by corrupted drivers, overclocked CPUs, malware attacks, and frequently occurs in computers that use an SSD. What’s even worse is that if you don’t fix it immediately,  it will cause a slew of additional problems in your system.

So, without further delay, let’s take a look at a few fixes!

1. Run the BSOD Troubleshooter.

The first step you should perform when encountering the BSOD error is to run a system troubleshooter. To do so, follow the steps below:

1. To start, go to Settings and go to Update & Security.

2. In the next window, click on Troubleshoot located at the left pane.
   
3. Now, select Blue Screen on the right pane and click on Run the troubleshooter.

4. Then, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

If this wasn’t effective, go through numerous other fixes mentioned below.

2. Delete Packages You Recently Installed.

If you’ve set your computer to install packages automatically, you won’t get any notifications. Sometimes, these packages may result in the Inaccessible Boot Device error on Windows 10.

Fortunately, you have the authority to remove these packages one by one if you suspect them to be the culprit. Keep in mind that this method will restart your computer. So if you have any important work ongoing, save it before you continue.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. First, open the Settings app on your computer and go to Update & Security.
   
2. From the left pane of the window, click on Recovery.
   
3. Then, click on the Restart Now button under Advanced Startup.

4. After that, a blue screen will appear. Go to Troubleshoot, select Advanced Options, and click on Command Prompt.

5. Doing so will restart your computer, and it will boot into Command Prompt. When the window appears, type the following command and hit Enter. This will show you which drive has your installed Windows.

dir c

6. After that, run the following command. If your Windows is installed in the D drive, replace “C” with “D” in the following command. Now, your computer screen will display a list of all updated packages of Windows.

Dism /Image:C:\ /Get-Packages

7. Identify the most recent installed package from the list by checking the install date. Note down its name and run the following command. Remember to replace the [name of package] with the actual name of the package you wish to remove.

dism.exe /image:d:\ /remove-package /packagename:[name of package]

8. After that, close the Command Prompt and restart your PC.

Hopefully, this will resolve the Inaccessible Boot Device error on Windows 10. If it doesn’t, continue reading.

3. Update the Drivers.

Although drivers assist Windows to access hardware functions accurately, outdated drivers can easily cause various errors in your system. So, if you happen to face the Inaccessible Boot Device error on Windows 10, it is highly recommended to upgrade the drivers instantly. 

This BSOD error is usually the result of a fault in IDE ATA/SATA controller driver. To fix this issue, you can either visit the official website of your hardware manufacturer and download the latest drivers or follow the steps below:

1. To get started, you’ll need to boot your PC into Safe Mode. to do this, keep pressing the F8 key when your computer starts until the Advanced Boot Options screen appears.
   
2. Next, choose the Safe Mode with Networking option and hit Enter.

3. Once your computer turns on, press the Windows key + X simultaneously and click on Device Manager from the pop-up list.
   
4. Now, right-click on each driver and select the Update driver option. Remember to do this for Graphics, Network, and Audio drivers.

5. Then, a new window will open. You should click on Search automatically for updated driver software. Your PC will take over from here and install if there is an update available. 

6. Once done, restart your PC to apply the changes correctly.
   
   

4. Enable AHCI Mode in BIOS.

The primary role of the Advanced Host Controller Interface or AHCI is to allow software to communicate with Serial ATA devices. Most motherboards have this feature enabled by default. However, if you’re not too sure or have turned it off earlier, you might want to reconsider your decision.

Occasionally, this type of BSOD error is fixed by booting into BIOS and turning on AHCI Mode Value. The method to enter the BIOS menu and its functions vary with each manufacturer. 

Below are the steps you’ll need to follow:

1. Most commonly, you are required to press the Delete, Esc, or the F2 key.
   
2. Then, go to the Advanced Options menu.
   
3. Once there, look for the Set AHCI Mode option.
   
4. Lastly, change its value to Enabled.

5. Fix Corrupted Hard Drive Files.

If any of your hardware files are outdated, corrupted, or even configured inaccurately, it will lead to the Inaccessible Boot Device error on Windows 10. Fortunately, fixing them is pretty straightforward and doesn’t demand any expert’s help.

Here’s all you need to do:

1. Begin by launching the Command Prompt as administrator. You can do this by pressing the Windows key. Then, type cmd in the box and click on the Run as administrator option.

2. When the Command Prompt opens, type the following command and press the Enter key from your keyboard:

chkdsk /f /r

3. After that, type Y and hit Enter again. This will get your PC to restart.

If you failed to access Windows due to the Inaccessible Boot Device error, you can easily launch the Command Prompt from the Advanced Boot Menu.

6. Scan for Malware.

Undoubtedly, the Inaccessible Boot Device error can occur due to malware attacks on your system. Therefore, Therefore, you must regularly run a malware scan using the Windows Defender Antivirus program.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Firstly, press the Windows key + i to open Settings.
   
2. Then, click on Update & Security.
   
3. From there, go to Windows Security from the left pane of the window.
   
4. Now, look for Virus & threat protection and click on it. After that, follow the on-screen instructions.

7. Check for Any Loose Cables.

One simple fix you may try is to check your PC for any loose cables. However, it is only recommended if you are familiar with your computer’s hardware. To follow this method, unplug your PC from a power source and open the PC cabinet.

Then, ensure that all the connections are secure. You can even reconnect the wires for assurance. Also, clear the internal components from dust accumulation, particularly the connecting ports.

8. Restore Your System.

For a safer option, you can restore your computer to a restore point. Simply follow the steps mentioned below:

1. To begin, open Create a Restore Point and click on the System Restore button.

2. In the next window, click on Next.
   
3. Now, select the restore points and click on Scan for affected programs. Then, click on Next. 

4. Lastly, click on Finish.

You can then restart your PC like you normally do and check if the error has gone.

9. Reset Your PC.

If all the above-explained solutions fail to be effective, your last option is to reset your PC. This will delete all your settings and saved data, your PC will also eliminate the Inaccessible Boot Device error. But if you have important files, be sure to create a backup before following this method.

This brings us to the end of our guide on how to fix the Inaccessible Boot Device error on Windows 10. We hope that at least one of the methods proved helpful for you. We’ll be happy to hear about your experience in the comment section below. 

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