Fixing INACCESSIBLE BOOT DEVICE (0X0000007B) Stop Code on Windows 10 & 11 – Step by Step

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Fixing INACCESSIBLE BOOT DEVICE (0X0000007B) Stop Code on Windows 10 & 11 Step by Step

The INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE (0x0000007B) error, also known as the “Blue Screen of Death” (BSOD), is a critical system failure that prevents your Windows 10 or 11 PC from booting properly. This error indicates that the operating system cannot access essential files needed to start Windows, often due to hardware issues, corrupted system files, or misconfigured settings. If you encounter this stop code, dont panicthis guide will walk you through multiple troubleshooting steps to resolve it.

What Causes the INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE Error?

The 0x0000007B error typically occurs when Windows cannot read or write data from your system drive, often due to:

  • Faulty hardware, such as a failing hard drive (HDD/SSD), loose SATA cables, or a malfunctioning RAM module.
  • Corrupted system files in critical Windows components like the Boot Configuration Data (BCD) or Master Boot Record (MBR).
  • Improper shutdowns

    sudden power loss or incorrect driver updates that disrupt boot processes.

  • Outdated or incompatible drivers, especially for storage controllers, chipset, or disk drivers.
  • Malware or disk errors affecting the system partition (e.g., C: drive).

Step-by-Step Fixes for INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE (0x0000007B)

### **Method 1: Boot into Advanced Startup and Run Automated Repair**
If your PC crashes during startup, use Windows built-in recovery tools:

  • Restart your computer. If it doesnt boot automatically, hold the power button for 5 seconds to force a shutdown.
  • Power on the PC and repeatedly press F8 (or Shift + F8 in some cases) before the Windows logo appears to open Advanced Startup Options.
  • Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Automatic Repair. Wait for the process to complete, then restart your PC.

### **Method 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM**
Corrupted system files can trigger this error. Use these commands in Command Prompt (Admin):

  • Boot from a Windows installation USB (if needed). Navigate to Troubleshoot > Command Prompt.
  • Run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    sfc /scannow
  • Restart your PC after both commands finish.

### **Method 3: Check and Repair Disk Errors with CHKDSK**
If the error stems from a failing drive, run:

  • Open Command Prompt (Admin) as above.
  • Type:chkdsk C: /f /r
    (Replace C: with your system drive letter if needed.)

  • Confirm to schedule the scan on the next reboot, then restart your PC.

### **Method 4: Rebuild Boot Configuration Data (BCD)**
A corrupted BCD file can cause this error. Use these steps:

  • Open Command Prompt (Admin) from Advanced Startup.
  • Run:bootrec /fixmbr 
    bootrec /fixboot
    bootrec /scanos
    bootrec /rebuildbcd
  • Confirm prompts (e.g., “Total identified Windows installations: 1”) and restart.

### **Method 5: Update or Reinstall Drivers**
Outdated drivers can trigger this error. If you suspect a specific driver:

  • Boot into Safe Mode (hold Shift + F8 during startup).
  • Use Windows Update to check for driver updates.
  • If the issue persists, roll back or reinstall the problematic driver via Device Manager (search in Safe Mode).

### **Method 6: Test Hardware Components**
If software fixes fail, hardware issues may be at fault:

  • Check SATA/USB cables: Reseat your boot drive and ensure connections are secure.
  • Test RAM: Use Windows built-in tool (Memory Diagnostic) or third-party tools like MemTest86.
  • Verify disk health: Use manufacturer tools (e.g., CrystalDiskInfo) to check SSD/HDD status.

### **Method 7: Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)**
If all else fails, back up your data and perform a clean install via:

  • Download the Windows Media Creation Tool.
  • Create a bootable USB, select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced), and choose your system drive to reinstall.

FAQs About INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE

Q: Will this error delete my files?
A: Nothis error doesnt corrupt data, but a failing drive may cause data loss if not addressed. Back up important files before proceeding.

Q: Can I fix it without a USB bootable drive?
A: If your PC boots partially, try Safe Mode or use a third-party tool like EaseUS Partition Master to access files.

Q: Why does this happen after a Windows update?
A: Updates can corrupt system files. Use System Restore (if available) or roll back the update via Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.

Q: Is my SSD/HDD failing if I see this error?
A: Possiblyrun manufacturer diagnostics (e.g., SeaTools for Seagate) to confirm.

Q: How often does this error recur after fixing it?
A: If the cause (e.g., hardware failure) isnt resolved, the issue may return. Monitor your systems health regularly with tools like CrystalDiskInfo.

By following these steps, you should resolve the 0x0000007B error and restore normal operation. If problems persist, consult a professional technician for hardware diagnostics.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Tested on: Windows 10 (22H2) & Windows 11 (23H2)

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