How to Fix Boot Configuration Data File Is Missing in Windows 11

The Boot Configuration Data (BCD) in Windows stores important boot-related information. If the Boot Configuration Data file is missing, you will not be able to boot your computer properly. Follow this article to learn how to fix the Boot Configuration Data file is missing in Windows 11.

Part 1: What is Boot Configuration Data?

The Boot Configuration Data (BCD) is a database file in the Windows operating system that is responsible for locating and booting the operating system during the boot process. It is essential for the proper functioning of the boot process. The BCD contains entries for the various operating systems installed on the computer, if the BCD file is corrupted, missing, or misconfigured, it can cause boot problems and "Boot Configuration Data File is Missing" and other errors.

The BCD file can be lost or corrupted for a variety of reasons, such as sudden power failure, abnormal shutdown, malware infection, hardware problems, or software conflicts. If the Boot Configuration Data file is missing, you cannot boot your computer normally. In this case, repairing or rebuilding the BCD file is necessary to resolve the problem.

Part 2: How to Rebuild Boot Configuration Data?

To fix the "Boot Configuration Data File is Missing" error in Windows 11, you can follow this way: Rebuild BCD with Command Prompt.

Firstly, you need a DVD or USB stick containing the Windows installation media. You can download a tool from Microsoft here. Next, follow these steps:

Step 1: Insert your installation media on your computer. Press Enter key to boot the system. Then the Windows Setup screen will open, select your language preferences and click Next.

Step 2: Click on Repair your computer at the bottom left corner of the screen.

Step 3: In the next screen, select Troubleshoot.

Step 4: Enter the Advanced options.

Step 5: Click Command Prompt to open the Command Prompt window.

Step 6: In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter: bootrec /rebuildbcd.

Or you can try the following method from step 5 onwards, by clicking on Startup Repair to fix the error automatically.

Once the process is complete, restart your computer and check if the BCD has been successfully rebuilt.

Part 3: How to Back up Boot Configuration Data Registry File?

Rebuilding the BCD can help fix boot-related issues in Windows 11. However, it's important to note that this process may not always resolve all boot problems, and further troubleshooting or assistance from a professional may be required in some cases.

Additionally, it's crucial to ensure that you have a backup of your important files before attempting any repair operations on your system. Following these steps to back up the Boot Configuration Data registry file in Windows 11:

Step 1: Run Command Prompt as administrator.

Step 2: Click Yes to allow this app to make changes to your device.

Step 3: The Command Prompt window opens.

Step 4: Type the following command and press Enter: bcdedit /export C:\BCDbackup. (Replace "C:\ BCDbackup" with the actual path where you want to save the backup file)