Error code 0xc0000098

No matter what I do, I can't enter the advanced setup options. I don't know if it's because my pc instantly turns off when I hold the power button. I do have a USB stick but not another

Pc at least I don't think.

You thought I couldn't fix it..?!? Well I did. I DID IT. ALL BY MYSELF!!!

Currently, you do not have the means to fix this issue. Please look for a nearby computer repair shop or contact the computer's after-sales service for assistance.

I understand that you don't have another Windows to make installation media, but if option 1 is not feasible, making USB media is necessary. This includes reinstalling Windows. You can take the initiative to see if there are other possibilities, such as whether relatives/friends can assist. If it is not convenient, you can consider an Internet cafe.

After that, you can find instructions on how to install Windows 10/11 in the following article by MVP Andre: How to: Perform a Custom Installation of Windows 11 and Windows 10 - Microsoft Community 

Disclaimer: At this point, we have exhausted all troubleshooting and I recommend that we try to perform a clean install to get your computer back into a working condition. Please ensure that you backup any important data, including Documents, Pictures, Videos, and more.  

Best Regards

Leo Z | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

Hello , racec

Welcome to Microsoft Community.

Based on the description, I understand that you are unable to boot into the system. The 0xc0000098 error is a boot error code that typically appears when attempting to start the operating system, manifesting as a blue screen of death (BSOD) or a black screen with an error message. This error indicates that the BCD (Boot Configuration Data) file is corrupted or missing, preventing the system from properly loading the files required for startup.  Possible causes of this issue include: BCD file corruption, hard drive issues, missing system files, sudden power loss, or similar system interruptions.Resolving the 0xc0000098 error requires repairing or rebuilding the BCD file. Below are step-by-step repair methods: Option 1: Method 1: Automatic Startup Repair  

1. Enter Advanced Startup Options:  
   • If you don’t have installation media, you can try forcing a shutdown multiple times (press and hold the power button for 5-10 seconds). Typically, after 2-3 attempts, the system will automatically enter the "Automatic Repair" interface.
   • Select "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options" > "Startup Repair."
2. Run the Repair:  
   • The system will attempt to automatically diagnose and fix startup issues.

Method 2: Check Hard Drive Health  

1. Run Disk Check:  
   • In the Command Prompt (accessed via installation media), enter:  
     chkdsk C: /f /r
   • This will check and repair hard drive errors (replace "C:" with the partition where your system is installed).
2. Verify Partitions:  
   • Enter diskpart, then run the following commands in sequence:  
     list disk 
     select disk 0    (select the disk containing the system) 
     list partition
   • Ensure the system partition exists and is marked as "active." Method 3: Manually Repair BCD If automatic rebuilding fails, you can manually specify BCD parameters:  
3. In the Command Prompt, enter:  
   bcdedit /set {default} device partition=C: 
   bcdedit /set {default} osdevice partition=C: 
   bcdedit /set {bootmgr} device partition=C: 
   • Ensure "C:" is your system partition.
4. Restart and test. Option 2: If the above methods are not feasible, repairing with Windows installation media is necessary.  
5. Prepare Bootable Media:  
   • Use another computer to create a Windows installation USB drive (download the ISO via Microsoft’s "Media Creation Tool" and write it to a USB).
   • Insert the USB into the affected computer.
6. Enter BIOS to Set Boot Order:  
   • Restart the computer and press the key (usually F2, DEL, or F12) to enter the BIOS, setting the USB as the first boot device.
7. Enter the Repair Environment:  
   • Boot from the USB, then select "Repair your computer" instead of installing.
   • Go to "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options."
8. Open Command Prompt:  
   • Select "Command Prompt."
9. Rebuild BCD:  
   • Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:  
     bootrec /fixmbr       (repair the Master Boot Record) 
     bootrec /fixboot      (repair the boot sector) 
     bootrec /scanos       (scan for system installations) 
     bootrec /rebuildbcd   (rebuild the BCD file)
   • If prompted to add a detected Windows installation to the boot list, select "Yes" (Y).
10. Restart:  
    • Type exit to close the Command Prompt, remove the USB, and reboot the computer.

If none of these methods work, you may need to reinstall Windows. If you have important data, you’ll need to use a PE (Preinstallation Environment) system to access and back up your data beforehand.

Best wishes

Leo Z | Microsoft Community Support Specialist