Error Code 0xc000000e is a Windows Boot Manager message indicating that the operating system cannot locate the files required to start the computer. Usually, the Boot Configuration Data (BCD) has become corrupted, is missing, or is pointing to a drive partition that is no longer accessible.
When this blue screen appears, Windows is essentially unable to find the map it needs to load the operating system. It’s a common issue following hardware upgrades (for example, if you’re cloning a drive to a new SSD) or sudden power losses, but it can also indicate a storage drive failure.
Below, we’ll explain a few methods to restore your boot configuration and protect your data.
First, an important note: If you’re unable to access a storage device that contains the only copy of important data, you’re experiencing a data loss event — any attempt to restore the files could make the problem worse.
We strongly recommend working with a professional data recovery provider. Datarecovery.com provides risk-free evaluations, and we support all cases with a no data, no charge guarantee. Call 1-800-237-4200 or submit a case online to get started.
Common Causes of the 0xc000000e Error
Usually, 0xc000000e indicates corrupt operating system files. The quick solution is to run Windows recovery tools, and this guide from Microsoft should walk you through that process.
You might run into a 0xc000000e error (and a blue screen of death) for a number of reasons:
- Corrupted BCD: The Boot Configuration Data is a database that tells Windows how to start. If it’s damaged during an update or an improper shutdown, the boot process won’t work.
- Incorrect Boot Priority: If you have recently added a new drive or performed a clone, your BIOS may be trying to boot from the wrong device. Check your boot settings (particularly the Boot Order selection; search for your computer manufacturer’s instructions, but generally you’ll just hold down a button to get into the settings and select your boot drive.
- Physical Connection Failure: A loose SATA or M.2 connection can prevent the motherboard from seeing the drive in time to load the boot files.
- BIOS/UEFI Configuration Mismatch: Switching between Legacy and UEFI modes, or changing SATA modes from AHCI to RAID, can render the existing boot data unreadable.
Fixing An 0xc000000e Error
Since your computer cannot reach the Windows desktop, you will need a Windows Installation Media (a bootable USB drive) to access recovery tools. If you don’t have one, you can create it on another working PC using the official Microsoft media creation tool. We recommend trying these steps in order:
1. Check Hardware and BIOS Settings
Start by disconnecting all non-essential external devices, such as USB flash drives or printers, which might interfere with the boot process.
- Verify Boot Order: Enter your BIOS (usually by pressing F2, F12, or Del during startup) and ensure the drive containing your OS is the primary boot device.
- Check SATA Mode: Ensure your BIOS is set to the same mode (AHCI or RAID) that was used when Windows was originally installed.
2. Run Windows Startup Repair
Windows includes an automated tool designed to fix missing boot files.
- Boot from your installation media and select Repair your computer.
- Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Repair.
- Windows will scan your system and attempt to rebuild the BCD automatically.
3. Manually Rebuild the BCD via Command Prompt
If Startup Repair fails, you may need to manually re-initialize the boot records using the Command Prompt. Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds, although if you’re uncomfortable at all with a Command Prompt — well, do not do this.
In the Advanced Options menu, select Command Prompt. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
- bootrec /fixmbr
- bootrec /fixboot
- bootrec /scanos
- bootrec /rebuildbcd
If you receive an “Access Denied” message on the fixboot command, you may need to use the bootsect /nt60 sys command first).
This can work because it gives you more granular control over the boot process; Windows’ repair tools try to fix a bunch of problems at once, and while they’re effective in most cases, they can’t overcome certain permissions issues.
Note: If you’re using a modern computer with UEFI and a GPT partition style, the standard bootrec commands might return an Access Denied error or fail to resolve the issue. You can use the BCDBoot tool to manually point the system toward your Windows installation.
After identifying your Windows drive letter, run the following command:
bcdboot C:\Windows /s S: /f UEFI
Replace S: with the drive letter assigned to your EFI system partition.
Data Recovery Services with Free Evaluations
If your drive remains unbootable or disappears from the BIOS entirely, the issue may be a firmware failure or mechanical damage that standard software cannot address. Attempting to force a failing drive to boot can result in permanent data loss.
If you’re facing a boot error and need to restore data, we’re ready to help. You can submit a case online or call us at 1-800-237-4200 to speak with an expert.
