How to Fix Dell Inaccessible Boot Device Error | 5 Solutions

'Inaccessible Boot Device' is a common error that occurs when a Dell computer fails to access the boot device during startup. It can be caused by various factors, such as disk misconfiguration, corrupted system files, or faulty hardware. Check this page and learn how to resolve the issue.

Facing the Dell Inaccessible Boot Device blue screen error is the worst experience for users, often leading to concerns about data loss and system stability. This error commonly arises when the operating system is unable to access the storage device containing essential boot files. In this guide from EaseUS, we'll learn five practical and useful solutions to fix this issue.

Way 1. Modify BIOS Configuration

The incorrect BIOS settings often lead to the Dell Inaccessible Boot Device error. If your Dell laptop won't turn on due to the misconfiguration in BIOS, enabling AHCI mode in the BIOS can potentially resolve the Inaccessible Boot Device error.

Follow the steps to enable your system's BIOS for optimal performance and to resolve the boot issue:

Step 1. Restart your Dell laptop, and press "F2"/"F8"/"F12"/"Esc"/"DEL" to enter the BIOS as the system begins startup.

Step 2. Navigate to the Advanced Options menu and find the configuration setting labeled "Configure SATA as." Adjust this setting to "AHCI." Confirm the changes by pressing "F10," then exit the BIOS.

Step 3. Reboot your Dell laptop and see if the issue is fixed.

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Way 2. Professional Boot Repair Tool

If you cannot fix the Dell Inaccessible boot device with the method above, utilizing specialized tools can offer an effective solution. One such tool, EaseUS Partition Master Professional, comes equipped with a dedicated Boot Repair feature designed to fix various boot errors and startup issues.

EaseUS Partition Master Professional is a robust software known for its advanced disk management abilities. Its advanced Boot Repair feature is specifically crafted to tackle boot-related issues, providing users with a user-friendly and efficient way to rectify problems like the Dell Inaccessible Boot Device error.

Follow the steps:

Step 1. Start EaseUS Partition Master after connecting the external drive/USB to your computer, go to "Bootable Media," and click "Create bootable media."

Step 2. Select an available USB Drive or CD/DVD and click "Create." You can also burn the Windows ISO file to the storage media.

Step 3. Connect the created bootable drive to the new computer and reboot the computer by pressing and holding F2/Del to enter the BIOS. Then, set the WinPE bootable drive as the boot disk and press F10 to exit.

Step 4. Boot the computer again and enter the WinPE interface. Then, open EaseUS Partition Master and click "Boot Repair" under the "Toolkit" option.

Step 5: Select the system you want to repair and click "Repair."

Step 6. Wait a moment, and you will receive an alert that the system has been successfully repaired. Click "OK" to complete the boot repair process.

Download the EaseUS Partition Master to explore the capabilities of its Boot Repair feature.

Way 3. Update IDE ATA/SATA Controller Drivers

The Dell Inaccessible Boot Device error can be led by outdated or incompatible drivers as well. Your system must have the latest and most compatible drivers for optimal performance.

Follow the steps to update the drivers:

Step 1. Search for and open Device Manager in the taskbar.

Step 2. In the Device Manager, locate the "IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers" and click ">" to expand it.

Step 3. Here, you'll see the corresponding drivers. Right-click the Standard SATA AHCI Controller, and click the Update driver option.

Step 4. In the new pop-up Window, you'll find two options to update drivers. Choose the preferred option, whether you want to update automatically or manually browse files from your local computer.

Sometimes, the Device Manager may not be able to find the appropriate or latest drivers. Thus, you can check this page and give Driver Easy a try.

Way 4. Run DISM and SFC Scan

Your Dell system depends on essential system files for proper functioning. Corrupted or missing system files could also cause the Inaccessible Boot Device error. To fix such problems, you can try to run DISM (Deployment Image Service and Management Tool) and SFC (System File Checker) scan command lines.

Follow the steps to run DISM:

Step 1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator. Input CMD in the search bar and choose "Run as administrator."

Step 2. Type in the following commands and press "Enter."

Way 5. Reset Your PC

When all other methods fail, resetting your Dell can be a comprehensive solution to fix persistent issues like the Dell Inaccessible Boot Device error. This method involves returning your system to a fresh state while preserving your files.

Follow the steps below to initiate the reset process and potentially resolve the boot-related problem:

Step 1. Restart your Dell and hold the "Shift" key while clicking "Restart."

Step 2. In the Advanced Startup menu, select "Troubleshoot." Then, navigate to "Reset this PC." You'll be presented with two options:

• Keep My Files: This option resets your Windows settings and removes installed apps but preserves your personal files.
• Remove Everything: This option wipes everything, including personal files and apps. Choose this option only if you have backed up your data elsewhere.

Step 3. Then, follow the instructions to finish the procedure. The reset process can take some time.

After resetting your Dell, the system should be accessible.

Possible Reasons for Dell Inaccessible Boot Device

Recognizing the potential causes behind the Dell Inaccessible Boot Device error is essential for effective troubleshooting. Below are some general factors that can give rise to this issue:

Hope you find this article helpful. Please share it with anyone who may get help from it if facing the same issue.

Conclusion

Navigating the challenges posed by the Dell Inaccessible Boot Device error demands a strategic and systematic approach. This tutorial has provided five comprehensive ways to fix the issue, ranging from correcting BIOS misconfigurations and employing professional boot repair tools to updating drivers, running DISM and SFC scans, and ultimately resorting to resetting your PC.

While each method caters to specific scenarios, it's crucial to recognize that the solution might vary based on individual system configurations. If you find manual procedures challenging, EaseUS Partition Master Professional is a user-friendly tool with advanced features such as Boot Repair. Its effectiveness in resolving Dell Inaccessible Boot Device errors makes it a recommended choice.

FAQs on Dell Inaccessible Boot Device

Do you have more questions? Check the FAQs below, and you may find the answers.

1. How do I fix my Dell computer when it says no boot device found?

If your Dell computer showes "No boot device found" while booting up, go and check the BIOS settings to confirm the correct boot device is selected. If the issue continues, consider troubleshooting using this guide's detailed methods and steps.

2. How do I restore my Dell boot device menu?

Here are a few ways to restore your Dell boot device menu:

• Advanced Startup: Restart your Dell and hold the Shift key while clicking "Restart." This will boot your Dell into the Windows Recovery Environment, where you can access advanced options.
• Startup Settings: In the Recovery Environment, choose "Startup Settings" and "Restart." This allows you to enable various boot options like Safe Mode.
• System Repair: The Recovery Environment also offers a "System Repair" option. This can diagnose and fix boot-related issues automatically.

3. What is the BIOS key for Dell recovery?

The BIOS key for Dell recovery can vary, but commonly, it is "F2," "F12," "F8," "DEL," or "ESC." During the startup process, you'll see the corresponding key. Press the prescribed key to enter the BIOS or UEFI settings. Once inside, you can explore recovery options or check and modify boot settings to troubleshoot Dell Inaccessible Boot Device errors.