"NTLDR is missing or corrupt" on boot-up

This message indicates the Windows boot files cannot be found. Quite often this is simply due to a failed attempt to boot from a floppy disk, CD, or other non-bootable device. Remove any floppy disks or CDs from the drives and reboot to resolve.

This issue may also be caused by missing or corrupted boot files, in which case a system repair should be attempted by booting from the Windows CD, choosing Repair and following the steps.

Another cause of this error may be a hardware problem. This issue may be as simple as a loose or bad hard drive cable -- check all of your connections to make sure they are tight and/or replace the cable. Also check the hard drive configuration in the BIOS. Data corruption may be another cuase. Minor corruption might be repaired by running chkdsk from the recovery console. Finally, it might be due to a failed or failing hard drive or hard disk controller. Replacement is typically the only solution in these cases.

Warning: By visiting this site and/or by using any information contained herein, you agree to the Techbytes.ca terms of use.

Add a comment about this TechByte

If you wish to add a comment regarding this TechByte, please use the form below. Please note that by submitting comments using this form you are allowing all of the information submitted to be visible on this website. Any comments submitted using this form will only be shown on the website if they are approved by the administrators of this site. IF APPROVED, COMMENTS MAY TAKE SEVERAL DAYS TO BE POSTED.

Other TechBytes:

• Unable to open secure websites (https) in Internet Explorer
• Changes to Irfanview settings are not saved
• About the TechBytes website