How to fix Boot BCD error 0xc0000242 in Windows?

What causes How to fix Boot BCD error 0xc0000242 in Windows?

BCP becomes corrupted
BCP becomes damaged
Loss of access to important data
System instability
Crashes during boot

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Hello. My Windows PC fails to boot up with an error 0xc0000242. What do I do?

The Boot BCD error 0xc0000242 is a common problem in Windows that can prevent the system from properly booting. The Boot Configuration Data (BCD) is a database that stores Windows boot-time configuration data. This includes information about the computer's operating system and how to boot it up.

The error 0xc0000242 can occur when the BCD becomes corrupted or damaged. This error can cause users to lose access to their computers and important data. It can also cause system instability and crashes, making using the computer difficult.

There are several possible solutions to the Boot BCD error 0xc0000242, including using the Advanced Startup Options, repairing the BCD file, performing a clean Windows install, and others. The best solution is determined by the specific cause of the error as well as the user's technical knowledge.

In general, it's important to back up important data before attempting any solution to the Boot BCD error 0xc0000242, as some solutions may result in the loss of data. In this guide, you will find 4 steps that should help you fix Boot BCD error 0xc0000242. You may also try running a system repair tool like [d1] that can fix most system errors, BSODs,[ref en-1] corrupted files, and registry[ref en-2] issues. Otherwise, follow the step-by-step instructions below.

How to fix boot bcd error 0xc0000242 in windows

Method 1. Run Startup Repair

Use F8 to access the Advanced Startup Options screen

While booting your computer, press F8 to access the Advanced Startup Options screen.
Follow the onscreen instructions to repair your computer.
Once done, restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

Use Windows installation media

Download the Windows Media Creation tool and create a Windows installation media using a USB drive.
Start your PC and go to BIOS or UEFI by pressing the DEL or F2 Key.
Change the boot order to a USB drive instead of an HDD or SSD.
Save the changes, insert the Windows installation media drive into your PC, and restart your PC.
When the PC boots from the USB, it will be a Windows Installation. However, you will get an option of Repair Windows just before installation. Choose that.
It will then take you to Advanced Recovery.

Once you are in the Advanced Recovery screen, follow these steps:

Go to Advanced Options > Automatic Repair or Startup Repair.
Let Windows do its job and follow the onscreen steps.
Once done, reboot your computer and see if you still get the Boot BCD Error 0xc0000242 on Windows.

Method 2. Rebuild the BCD

Insert your Windows media installation drive into your computer.
Boot up your computer.
Go to the Repair Windows page.
Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options.
Click on Command Prompt.
In the Command Prompt, run the following command:

bootrec /rebuildbcd

After running the command, the bootrec command will scan all Windows installation disks and rebuild the BCD file.
Once the process is complete, reboot your PC.
You should now be able to log in to your computer without any Boot BCD Error issues.

Method 3. Repair Install Windows

Download the same Windows ISO version as installed on your computer (optional but recommended).
Create a bootable USB drive with the Windows ISO.
Boot into the BIOS or UEFI of your computer, and select the USB device as the first boot device, followed by the hard disk.
When you boot from the USB drive, it will kickstart Windows installation.
On the first installation screen, look for a link Repair your computer. Click on it.

It will boot your computer into Advanced Recovery.
When at the advanced troubleshooting, select Advanced Options.
Select Troubleshoot.
Under the Advanced options screen, you will see Startup Repair. Click on it and follow the instructions.
Make sure to carefully follow the on-screen instructions and let Windows complete the repair process.
Once the process is complete, reboot your computer.
If the repair was successful, your computer should now be able to start up normally without any Boot BCD Error issues.

Method 4. Clean Install Windows

If nothing else works, you must perform a clean install of Windows. Before proceeding, note that performing a clean install of Windows will erase all data on the C: drive.

Create a Windows bootable drive using the Windows Media Creation tool if you don't already have one.
Plug in your bootable drive to your PC and boot up your computer.
Follow the on-screen instructions to boot from the USB drive.
Once you've booted from the USB drive, follow the on-screen steps to install Windows on your computer.
During the installation process, you will have the option to format your C: drive and erase all data. Be sure to back up any important files before proceeding.
Follow the remaining on-screen instructions to complete the installation of Windows.
Once the installation is complete, your computer should be free of any Boot BCD Error issues.

Note: Be sure to back up any important data before performing a clean install of Windows, as all data on the C: drive will be erased.

Bottom line

To fix the Boot BCD error 0xc0000242, you can run Startup Repair, use Windows installation media, or perform a clean Windows install. It's important to back up your data before attempting these solutions. If none of these methods work, consider using a system repair tool or seeking professional assistance.

Frequently asked questions

What causes the Boot BCD error 0xc0000242 in Windows 10?

The Boot BCD error 0xc0000242 in Windows 10 is typically caused by a corrupted Boot Configuration Data or issues with system files. This can happen due to improper shutdowns, disk errors, or malware infections.

How can I repair the BCD error 0xc0000242 in Windows 11?

To repair the BCD error 0xc0000242 in Windows 11, you can use the Automatic Repair feature from the Windows Recovery Environment or run the Bootrec commands via Command Prompt. This will help rebuild the BCD and fix any underlying issues.

Is it safe to use third-party tools to fix the BCD error 0xc0000242 on Windows?

While some third-party tools can help fix the BCD error 0xc0000242, it is recommended to use built-in Windows recovery options first to avoid potential data loss or further system issues. Always ensure you back up your data before attempting repairs.

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Written & verified by

Ryan Mitchell

Hardware & Driver Specialist

Hardware troubleshooting Driver installation and rollback Device Manager errors USB and peripheral issues Firmware updates

Ryan Mitchell specialises in hardware troubleshooting and driver management for Windows systems. His expertise covers device recognition failures, driver conflicts, firmware updates, and peripheral connectivity issues across all major manufacturers. Ryan's systematic approach to hardware diagnosis — starting with Device Manager, working through driver rollback and clean installs, and escalating to BIOS-level checks — has made his guides a reliable resource for both home users and field technicians. He covers GPUs, printers, audio devices, USB controllers, network adapters, and external storage.

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