How to Fix ‘The Boot Configuration Data File Doesn’t Contain Valid Information’ Error on Windows?

If you’ve ever encountered the message ‘The Boot Configuration Data file doesn’t contain valid information for an operating system’ on your Windows computer, you know how frustrating it can be. The error message typically appears when you’re attempting to start your system, and it may prevent your computer from booting up. Other times, it may allow you to boot up, but with limited functionality or in Safe Mode.

Fortunately, there are several solutions that can help you fix this error message and get your computer up and running again. This blog post will guide you through several effective methods for resolving ‘The Boot Configuration Data file doesn’t contain valid information for an operating system’ error message on Windows.

What Causes the ‘The Boot Configuration Data file doesn’t contain valid information for an operating system’ Error?

Before we dive into the solutions, it’s essential first to understand why this error message appears in the first place. There can be several reasons why the BCD (Boot Configuration Data) file becomes corrupted or is accidentally deleted from your computer:

• A virus or malware attack on your system
• Power loss or power spike during the bootup process
• Accidental deletion of the BCD file
• Errors during the installation or update of an operating system or an update
• Hardware malfunctions

Solution 1: Using Automatic Repair Tool

Windows has an in-built tool that can perform a quick automated repair of your computer. This tool can help fix any issues with the BCD file and other system files. Here is how to repair your computer using the Automatic Repair tool:

1. Insert your Windows installation media and restart your computer.
2. Press any key to boot from the installation media when prompted.
3. Select your language preferences, and then click “Next.”
4. Click “Repair your computer.”
5. Select “Troubleshoot”.
6. Select “Advanced options”.
7. Select “Automatic Repair”.
8. Select your target operating system.
9. Wait for the automatic repair process to complete and try booting up again.

Solution 2: Rebuild the BCD Using Command Prompt

If the automatic repair tool fails to fix your computer, you can rebuild the BCD file using the Command Prompt. Here is how to rebuild your BCD file using the Command Prompt:

1. Insert your Windows installation media and restart your computer.
2. Press any key to boot from the installation media when prompted.
3. Select your language preferences, and then click “Next.”
4. Click “Repair your computer.”
5. Select “Troubleshoot”.
6. Select “Advanced options”.
7. Select “Command Prompt”.
8. Type in the following command: bootrec /rebuildbcd and press enter.
9. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Solution 3: Fix the Corrupted Windows Registry with Registry Editor

If the above methods don’t work, the problem may be with the corrupted Windows Registry. In this case, you can use the Registry Editor to fix the problem. However, it’s crucial to note that the Registry Editor is a powerful tool that can cause serious issues when misused. Here is how to use it:

1. Insert your Windows installation media and restart your computer.
2. Press any key to boot from the installation media when prompted.
3. Select your language preferences, and then click “Next.”
4. Click “Repair your computer.”
5. Select “Troubleshoot”.
6. Select “Advanced options”.
7. Select “Command Prompt”.
8. Type in the following command: cd c:\windows\system32\config and press enter.
9. Type in the following command: ren C:\Windows\System32\config\DEFAULT DEFAULT.old and press enter.
10. Type in the following command: ren C:\Windows\System32\config\SAM SAM.old and press enter.
11. Type in the following command: ren C:\Windows\System32\config\SECURITY SECURITY.old and press enter.
12. Type in the following command: ren C:\Windows\System32\config\SOFTWARE SOFTWARE.old and press enter.
13. Type in the following command: ren C:\Windows\System32\config\SYSTEM SYSTEM.old and press enter.
14. Type exit and press Enter to close the Command Prompt.
15. Restart your computer and let the system boot normally.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ‘The Boot Configuration Data file doesn’t contain valid information for an operating system’ error message can be frustrating, but there are several methods you can use to resolve and fix the issue. While the Automatic Repair tool and Command Prompt are effective solutions, it’s always crucial to back up your data before attempting to fix your computer. We hope these solutions have helped you resolve this issue and get back to using your computer with confidence.