How to Fix the INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE Error in Windows 10

The INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE error is a common issue Windows 10 users might encounter, often after system updates, hardware configuration changes, or driver installations. This error typically appears during system startup, indicating that Windows cannot access the necessary boot partition, leading to a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). Resolving this error requires a careful approach to prevent data loss and ensure system stability.

Main Causes of the INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE Error

Understanding the possible causes of this error is crucial for effective troubleshooting. Here are some common reasons:

  • Windows Update: Major Windows 10 updates can sometimes create driver conflicts, resulting in this error.
  • HDD or SSD Issues: Problems with the hard drive, SSD, or SATA cable can lead to loss of access to the boot device.
  • System Drivers: Incompatible or malfunctioning drivers, especially disk drivers, may trigger this error.
  • BIOS Settings Changes: Adjustments in BIOS/UEFI settings (e.g., switching from AHCI to IDE mode or vice versa) can cause boot issues.
  • Malware: Certain malicious programs can modify boot sectors, leading to the error.

How to Fix the INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE Error

Try the following methods to resolve the boot device issue in Windows 10:

1. Boot into Safe Mode

Start in Safe Mode — a minimal Windows environment that disables most drivers and software — to determine if the error is caused by a driver or application. To boot into Safe Mode:

  1. Turn on the computer, wait for the error to appear, and restart the device while holding down Shift.
  2. On the Choose an Option screen, select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings.
  3. Select Safe Mode (option 4 or F4) and let the system load.

If the error does not appear in Safe Mode, consider updating or reinstalling drivers.

2. Update Drivers

Update the drivers for the hard drive and SATA controllers using the Device Manager. Follow these steps:

  1. Open Device Manager (Win + X → Device Manager).
  2. Locate the Disk drives or IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers section.
  3. Right-click the device, select Update driver, and follow the prompts.

3. Use System Restore

If the issue began after a recent system update, use a restore point to revert to a previous system state:

  1. Boot into the Choose an Option screen and select System Restore.
  2. Follow the instructions to choose a restore point created before the error occurred.

4. Use Command Prompt

You can use the Command Prompt to perform disk diagnostics, repair boot records, and check system files. Try the following commands:

chkdsk /f /r
sfc /scannow
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot

These commands help address file system issues and restore boot records as needed.

5. Verify BIOS/UEFI Settings

Ensure the BIOS/UEFI settings are correct. For example, the SATA mode (AHCI or IDE) should match the mode the system was installed with. Restart the computer and enter the BIOS to review these settings.