BCD, or otherwise known as Boot Configuration Data, contains boot configuration parameters on how to start Windows. If the configuration file gets corrupted, you will have to rebuild BCD or Boot Configuration Data file. Usually, when BCD gets corrupted, it results in unbootable situations on Windows 11/10.
In earlier versions of Windows, the boot information was stored in the Boot.ini file. On EFI-based operating system, you’ll find the entry in the EFI firmware boot manager, which is available at – \EFI\Microsoft\Boot\Bootmgfw.efi.
How to Rebuild BCD in Windows 11/10
BCD or Boot Configuration Data is a firmware-independent database file which has boot-time configuration data. Windows Boot Manager requires it and replaces the boot.ini that was used by NTLDR earlier. In the case of boot problems, you may be required to rebuild BCD.
- Boot your computer into Advanced Recovery Mode
- Launch Command Prompt available under Advanced Options.
- To rebuild the BCD or Boot Configuration Data file use the command –
bootrec /rebuildbcd - It will scan for other operating systems and let you select the OS’s you want to add to BCD.
If this does not help, you can manually set the boot path. However, do so only if you are an expert, as it could create issues.
In the Command Prompt, type the following command and hit Enter:
bcdboot c:\windows /s c:
The BCDboot tool is a command-line tool that enables you to manage system partition files. If the system partition has been corrupted, you can use BCDboot to replace the system partition files with new copies of these files from the Windows partition.
Do note that you have to boot your computer into Advanced Recovery Mode and then execute this command, else you may see a Failure when attempting to copy boot files error message.
When you run this command, you will get a new Bootloader. Here “c” is the System drive. You should only do this when you know the exact drive on which Windows was installed.
If you are not comfortable with the commands, then you can use third-party tools such as EasyBCD or Dual-Boot Repair to repair your BCD file.
Lastly, we recommend you take a look at this post to how to repair & rebuild MBR or Master Boot Record.
Read: How to repair the EFI bootloader in Windows.
What does RebuildBCD do?
The RebuildBCD command is used to scan all disks for compatible Windows installations, and rebuild the Boot Configuration Data (BCD) store. It helps identify and add missing entries, ensuring proper boot management. Use this command to troubleshoot boot issues that require BCD reconstruction.
How to reset BCDedit settings?
To reset BCDedit settings, use the command bcdedit /deletevalue {default} to clear unwanted entries or incorrect configurations. This action will remove any misconfigured settings, helping restore your boot manager settings to their original state.
Does rebuilding BCD delete files?
No, rebuilding BCD does not delete files. Bootrec.exe, fixmbr bootrec.exe, fixboot and bootrec.exe help us to repair the boot files, which will not affect any of the personal files and folder.
How to fix Windows boot error file :\ boot BCD error code 0xc000014c?
To fix the Windows boot error code 0xc000014c, use the Windows installation media to access the Command Prompt. Then, execute the commands: bootrec /fixmbr, bootrec /fixboot, and bootrec /rebuildbcd. This sequence repairs the Master Boot Record (MBR) and rebuilds the Boot Configuration Data (BCD), resolving the error.
Related reading:
- BCDedit command fails with Total identified Windows installations 0 message
- Windows fails to boot; Automatic Startup Repair, Refresh, Reset PC also fails
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