Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-15

How to Fix: Windows 8.1 To Go inaccessible boot device error

Windows 8.1 To Go inaccessible boot device error fix

Quick Answer: Try running a System File Checker (SFC) scan, and then attempt to rebuild the BCD using Bootrec.

The 'INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE' error occurs when Windows is unable to find the boot device, which in this case is the Windows 8 partition on your hard drive. This issue can affect anyone who has a Windows 8 installation on a USB drive or external hard drive and is experiencing trouble getting it to boot.

This error can be frustrating as it prevents you from accessing your Windows 8 installation. However, don't worry, we will go through the steps to troubleshoot and potentially fix this issue.

💡 Why You Are Getting This Error

  • The primary reason for this error is that the Windows 8 partition on your hard drive may be corrupted or damaged. This can happen due to various reasons such as a power failure, disk errors, or improper shutdown.
  • Another alternative reason could be that the boot device is not properly configured or recognized by the operating system.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Rebuilding the BCD

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Insert the Windows installation media (USB drive or CD/DVD) into your MacBook Pro.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Restart your MacBook Pro and press the 'Option' key to access the Boot Options menu. Select the USB drive or CD/DVD as the boot device from the list of available options.
  3. Step 3: Step 3: Once the media is booted, open the Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for 'cmd' in the Start screen and selecting 'Command Prompt (Admin)'. Then, type the following command: `bootrec /rebuildbcd` and press Enter. This will rebuild the Boot Configuration Data (BCD).

Checking Disk Errors

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Insert the Windows installation media into your MacBook Pro.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Restart your MacBook Pro and press the 'Option' key to access the Boot Options menu. Select the USB drive or CD/DVD as the boot device from the list of available options.
  3. Step 3: Step 3: Once the media is booted, open the Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for 'cmd' in the Start screen and selecting 'Command Prompt (Admin)'. Then, type the following command: `chkdsk /f` and press Enter. This will check for any disk errors and attempt to repair them.

✨ Wrapping Up

If you have followed these steps and are still unable to boot into your Windows 8 installation, it may be worth considering reinstalling Windows or seeking further assistance from a professional technician.

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