Fix Error Code 0xc00000e in Windows 10/11: Step-by-Step Guide to Recover & Repair

Encountering Error Code 0xc00000e during Windows startup can be frustrating, as it prevents your PC from booting properly. This error typically appears with messages like:

• “Your PC needs to be repaired”
• “A required device isn’t connected or can’t be accessed”
• “File: \Windows\system32\winload.exe”

This guide explains the causes, solutions, and data recovery methods to fix 0xc00000e without losing files.

What Causes Error Code 0xc00000e?

The error occurs when Windows fails to locate or load critical boot files. Common causes include:

1. Corrupted Boot Configuration Data (BCD) – Misconfigured or missing boot files.
2. Faulty Hard Drive/SSD – Disk errors, bad sectors, or disconnection.
3. Damaged System Files – Corrupted winload.exe or other system files.
4. Incorrect BIOS/UEFI Settings – Wrong boot order or disabled UEFI support.
5. CMOS Battery Failure – BIOS settings reset due to power loss.
6. Recent Windows Update or Hardware Change – Conflicts with drivers or firmware.

First: Recover Data If Your PC Won’t Boot

Before you attempt any fixes, it’s critical to recover your data. Use tools like:

• EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
• MiniTool Power Data Recovery

Steps to recover files from an unbootable PC:

1. Create a bootable USB using recovery software on another computer.
2. Boot the crashed PC from the USB (adjust BIOS boot order).
3. Scan and export data to an external drive.

Once you’ve backed up your data, continue with the fixes below.

8 Ways to Fix Error Code 0xc00000e

Fix 1: Check Hard Drive & Device Connections

• Power off your PC.
• Unplug and reconnect the SATA/SSD/USB cables.
• Remove external drives (USBs, DVDs) that might hijack boot order.
• Test the drive on another PC, if needed.

Fix 2: Run Windows Automatic Startup Repair

1. Boot using a Windows USB/DVD installer.
2. Click Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Startup Repair.
3. Choose your Windows installation and account.
4. Let Windows scan and fix boot errors.

Fix 3: Repair System Files (SFC & DISM)

1. Open Command Prompt from Windows Recovery Environment.
2. Run these commands:

sfc /scannow
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
chkdsk /f /r C:

• sfc fixes protected system files.
• DISM repairs Windows images.
• chkdsk checks for disk errors.

Fix 4: Rebuild Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

From Command Prompt in recovery mode:

bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd

Command explanation:

• /fixmbr: Fixes Master Boot Record
• /fixboot: Writes new boot sector
• /scanos: Scans drives for Windows installations
• /rebuildbcd: Rebuilds boot config data from scratch

If that fails:

bcdboot C:\Windows /s C:

Fix 5: Reset BIOS/UEFI Configuration

1. Restart your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI (keys: F2, DEL, ESC, etc.).
2. Load Default Settings.
3. Enable UEFI, Secure Boot, or Windows 10 WHQL Support.
4. Ensure the correct OS drive is set as primary boot.

Fix 6: Mark Boot Disk as Online

1. Enter Command Prompt from recovery mode.
2. Use diskpart to mark the OS disk as online:

diskpart
list disk
select disk 0
online disk
exit

3. Restart your PC.

Fix 7: Replace CMOS Battery

A failing CMOS battery resets BIOS, leading to boot errors.

• Power off your PC.
• Open the case and replace the CR2032 battery on the motherboard.
• Re-enter BIOS to restore settings (boot order, UEFI, etc.).

Fix 8: Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)

If none of the fixes work:

1. Boot from a Windows USB installer.
2. Choose Custom Install.
3. Delete system partitions and install Windows on the primary drive.

Backup your files before doing this step. Data will be wiped.

Quick Troubleshooting Summary

Preventing Error 0xc00000e in the Future

• Back up data regularly (cloud or File History)
• Use a UPS to prevent power loss corruption
• Monitor disk health with tools like CrystalDiskInfo
• Keep BIOS and drivers updated

Final Thoughts

Error 0xc00000e is fixable in most cases. Start with cable checks and automatic repair, then move to BCD rebuild and BIOS reset. Always recover your data first to avoid permanent loss.

If none of the fixes work, a clean reinstall of Windows will resolve it.

FAQ

Q: Can I fix 0xc00000e without a USB installer?
A: Not reliably. Recovery options are limited without a bootable media.

Q: Is my SSD or hard drive failing?
A: Possibly. Use chkdsk or third-party tools to check disk health.

Q: Will rebuilding BCD delete my files?
A: No. BCD repair doesn’t affect personal files.

Q: What if the error returns after fixing it?
A: Consider replacing your storage drive or updating firmware/BIOS.