How to Fix the "Reboot and Select Proper Boot Device" Error

The "Reboot and Select Proper Boot Device" error occurs when your computer can’t locate a bootable drive to start the operating system. This issue can stem from BIOS settings, incorrect hard drive connections, or other hardware problems. Let’s walk through steps to resolve this error.

Step 1: Check Hard Drive Connection

Begin by checking the physical connection of your hard drive or SSD. Ensure that both the SATA and power cables are firmly connected. Loose or damaged cables can prevent the device from being properly recognized.

Step 2: Adjust Boot Order in BIOS

Open your BIOS settings to make sure your hard drive is set as the primary boot device. Here’s how:

  • Restart your computer and enter BIOS by pressing F2, Del, or the key specified for your motherboard.
  • Go to the "Boot" section and confirm that your hard drive or SSD with the operating system is first in the boot priority list.
  • Save your changes and restart your computer.

Step 3: Check Disk for Errors

If the previous steps didn’t work, the issue might be with the boot sector on your hard drive. Use Command Prompt to repair it:

  1. Boot your computer using a Windows installation disk or USB.
  2. Select "System Recovery" and open Command Prompt.
  3. Enter the commands bootrec /fixmbr and bootrec /fixboot, pressing Enter after each one.

Step 4: Update or Reset BIOS

Sometimes the issue can be caused by an outdated BIOS. Try updating your BIOS to the latest version. You can also reset BIOS settings to their default to resolve potential configuration issues:

  • Enter BIOS and find the reset option (often labeled "Reset to Default" or "Load Setup Defaults").
  • Save your changes and reboot the computer.

Step 5: Test the Hard Drive for Physical Issues

If the error persists, there may be a physical problem with your hard drive. Test it by connecting it to another computer or using diagnostic tools like Hard Disk Sentinel to check for any hardware issues.