Windows Error 0xC000000F — Boot Selection Failed
About Windows Error 0xC000000F
Windows error 0xC000000F means the boot selection failed because a required device is inaccessible. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Here are the key things to understand: STATUS_NO_SUCH_FILE — boot device not accessible. Common after BIOS changes or disk controller changes. May indicate corrupted BCD or missing boot files. Screen shows "Your PC/Device needs to be repaired". Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.
The most common reasons this occurs include: BCD entries pointing to wrong partition. BIOS boot order changed after update. SATA cable loose or failing. Disk controller mode changed (IDE vs AHCI). Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.
To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Check BIOS boot order and ensure correct drive is first. Boot from installation media and run Startup Repair. Rebuild BCD with bootrec /rebuildbcd. Check SATA cables and connections. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.
This article is part of our Windows Error Codes collection on Error Codes Wiki. We provide comprehensive, up-to-date information to help you find solutions quickly.
Quick Answer
Is my hard drive broken?
Not necessarily — this usually means Windows cannot find its boot files, which can be rebuilt.
Overview
Windows error 0xC000000F means the boot selection failed because a required device is inaccessible.
Key Details
- STATUS_NO_SUCH_FILE — boot device not accessible
- Common after BIOS changes or disk controller changes
- May indicate corrupted BCD or missing boot files
- Screen shows "Your PC/Device needs to be repaired"
Common Causes
- BCD entries pointing to wrong partition
- BIOS boot order changed after update
- SATA cable loose or failing
- Disk controller mode changed (IDE vs AHCI)
Steps
- 1Check BIOS boot order and ensure correct drive is first
- 2Boot from installation media and run Startup Repair
- 3Rebuild BCD with bootrec /rebuildbcd
- 4Check SATA cables and connections