Windows not recognized when booting

Question

Hi, the last few days i tried to install Linux on my computer without any USB or DVD by creating a VHD and converting it into MBR, but when i restarted my pc i couldn't find my second disk, so i changed settings in my UEFI, but not only it didn't work i also can't access Windows anymore, it tells me :

"Missing operating system.

Reboot and Select proper Boot device or Insert Boot Media in selected Boot device and presse a key"

When I go to my UEFI I can't find Windows as an option in my Boot settings. I tried to change every Boot options but i doesn't work.

I would be grateful if someone could help me.

Note : I don't think it happened because of SSD problem cause this problem happened just after i tried to install Linux.

Answer 1

I recognize that data is very important. I've already lost my data, and it's not cool.

What I would recommend in your case is to take your device to a specialized technical assistance center that you trust so they can back up your files to an external device and format them.

This way, you will ensure that your files are safe, and avoid losing them.

Another method you can use is Windows Installation Media itself to back up the most important files.

1. Before formatting the disks, in the Windows Installation Screen (attached an image of the Installation Screen), you can press the SHIFT + F10 keys to open the Command Prompt.
2. In the Terminal, you can use the robocopy command to copy your Windows user files to the Flash Drive (Installation Media).

Command to see the name of your user's folder:

dir C:\users\

Command to see which letter is assigned to your Flash Drive:

say X:

NOTE: in place of the "X", you will put the letter "A", and in the result of the command, see if you will have the "source" folder and the "install" file. If so, write down that letter > Otherwise, run the command again with the letter B, and see the result. Do this with the letters "D", "E" and "F".

Command to create a folder on Flash Drive:

mkdir X:\Backup

Command to copy user files to Flash Drive:

robocopy C:\Users<name of your user discovered in the first command>\ X:\Backup /e /COPY:DAT /v /eta /tee

After that, configure whether all files are saved using the command "dir X:", where the "X" is the letter of your Flash Drive.

ATTENTION: if any incorrect procedure is performed, or the Flash Drive's capacity does not support all the files, file loss may occur.

If you don't feel confident carrying out this procedure, take your computer to a qualified professional to avoid the risk of losing your data.

Answer 2

Thanks for your reply but I unfortunately I don't have access to another device.

When I look for others answers I saw that I could use an in-built power shell tool in my UEFI, but I don't have one.

I there a way to keep my files and fix my ssd/bootloader without any external device/media ? Or just to fix my problem without saving my files in the worst case ? I appreciate your help.

Answer 3

Thanks so much for your reply!

You can back up your files using a few methods.

1. Connect your Storage Device (HDD or SSD) to another computer, and back it up to an External Disk.
2. Create Installation Media with a Windows Portable (such as ''Hirens Boot CD'') > Place the Media as #1 in the Boot Menu (in BIOS) > When accessing Windows Portable, back it up to an External Disk .
3. Copy the files from the Command Prompt to an External Disk, using the xcopy command (recommended only for advanced users and administrators).

ATTENTION: You must manually back up your files to another location, as all files and programs will be deleted. If you do not have experience and knowledge, take your device to a specialized and trustworthy technical assistance!

Answer 4

Thanks for your reply, is it not possible to keep my files without any USB or DVD ?

Answer 5

Hello, I'm Manoel Barros! I will help you in the best way possible, using my knowledge and experience.

When you want to dual boot (use two different operating systems on the same machine), I always advise using two different hard drives. If you use the same disk for two Operating Systems, a partition that Windows needs may become corrupted or end up being used by the other Operating System, causing boot problems.

In this case, if you want to go back to Windows, I would advise you to back up your files, and then do a clean format and installation.

ATTENTION: Restore is not always able to "clean" Windows 100%. Therefore, some problems may still persist after Restore.

• In this case, we always recommend performing a Clean Installation of the System. This way, you ensure that the problem is resolved. In the link below, Jamir Correa MS explains how to carry out this procedure.

ATTENTION: You must manually back up your files to another location, as all files and programs will be deleted. If you do not have experience and knowledge, take your device to a specialized and trustworthy technical assistance!

https://answers.microsoft.com/pt-br/windows/for...

I look forward to your answers and feedback!