How to Fix a Master Boot Record in Windows XP

Windows XP stores your data and documents on one or more partitions of your computer's hard drive. The master boot record is the area on your computer's hard drive that stores information about your hard drive's partitions. Without the information in the master boot record, your computer will not know where to find your files and data, and Windows XP will not start. The master boot record can be damaged, for example, by viruses. However, it is possible to fix a master boot record in Windows XP using the Windows XP Recovery Console.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Windows XP CD-ROM

1. Place the Windows XP CD-ROM in your computer's CD drive and start the system. If you are prompted to start the computer from the CD, press the keys as indicated in the prompt.

2. Follow the prompts as they are given during the initial part of the setup program. The setup program is displayed as white text on a blue background.

3. Press the "R" key when the setup program reaches the "Welcome to Setup" screen. This will open the Recovery Console. The Recovery Console is displayed as white text on a black background.

4. Choose the hard drive for which you want to fix the master boot record when prompted by the Recovery Console; then enter the Administrator password when prompted. The Recovery Console will then display a command prompt.

5. Type "fixmbr" and then press the "Enter" key. Confirm that you want to fix the master boot record when prompted. The Windows XP Recovery Console will begin fixing the master boot record.

Tips & Warnings

• Making any change to the master boot record, including repairing it, may cause all data and software applications on the hard drive to be lost. Change the master boot record only as a last resort or when directed to do so by a qualified computer professional.

References

• Information on the Master Boot Record From Microsoft