What to Do When Your BCD File Doesn’t Contain Valid Information?

What to Do When Your BCD File Doesn’t Contain Valid Information?

If you are using Windows operating system, you may have come across the term BCD or Boot Configuration Data. BCD is a critical file that helps Windows to boot up correctly. However, if you encounter an error where the BCD file contains invalid information, it can prevent your PC from starting up altogether. Here are some steps you can take to resolve this issue.

Determine If the BCD File is Corrupt

The first step is to determine if the file is corrupt. To do this, you will need to access the Windows Recovery Environment. Boot your system from the Windows installation disc and select Repair your computer. Next, select Troubleshoot and then choose Advanced options. Click on Command Prompt and enter the following commands:

bootrec /scanos

bootrec /rebuildbcd

If the file is damaged, the system will prompt you to rebuild it. Follow the on-screen instructions to repair the BCD file.

Manually Fix the BCD File

If the system does not detect a problem with the BCD file, you can manually fix it. Again, access the Windows Recovery Environment by booting from the installation disc and selecting Repair your computer. This time, choose Command Prompt and enter the following commands:

bootrec /fixmbr

bootrec /fixboot

bootrec /rebuildbcd

These commands will repair the Master Boot Record, fix the partition boot sector, and then rebuild the BCD file.

Use a Third-Party Tool

If the above methods do not work, you can use a third-party tool such as EasyRE to fix the BCD file. EasyRE is a bootable CD or USB drive that can be used to repair BCD errors, among other issues.

Conclusion

If you encounter an error where the BCD file contains invalid information, there are several steps you can take to resolve the issue. Follow the steps mentioned above to repair or manually fix the BCD file. If all else fails, consider using a third-party tool like EasyRE to do the job. Remember to always back up your critical data before attempting any file repairs to prevent data loss.