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How to Fix Windows XP Boot Sector

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Fix a Windows XP MBR.

The master boot record (MBR) is a small program typically located on the first sector of the hard drive. It examines the partition table to determine which partition to boot first and then executes the proper commands to run the operating system installed on that partition. If the boot sector becomes corrupt or is overwritten by another operating system, Windows XP will not be able to load. Fortunately, the Windows XP installation CD contains an application that can repair damaged boot sectors.

Things You'll Need

  • Windows XP CD
  • Windows XP administrator password
  • Computer owner's manual
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the Windows XP CD into the optical drive, and then restart the computer. Enter the BIOS (usually by pressing "F1," "F2," or the "Delete" key) and set the system to boot from the optical drive first. Refer to your owner's manual if necessary. Save the BIOS settings and allow the computer to restart. When prompted, press any key to boot from the Windows XP CD. If you do not press a key at the prompt, the computer will attempt to boot into the hard drive instead of the CD.

    • 2

      Click Enter > F8 to accept the Windows XP license agreement. Press "R" to enter the Recovery Console after the Windows XP setup screen appears. Select the drive that contains Windows XP when asked "Which Installation Would You Like to Log Onto?" (usually "1: C:\WINDOWS"), and then press "Enter."

    • 3

      Enter your Windows XP administrator password when prompted, and then press "Enter." If you do not have a password, leave the box blank and press "Enter."

    • 4

      Type "fixmbr" (omit the quotes) at the command prompt then press "Enter." The "fixmbr" utility will overwrite and repair the damaged boot sector. After the process is complete, remove the Windows XP CD and restart the computer.

Tips & Warnings

  • Some computer viruses are designed to corrupt the master boot record. Keep your antivirus software updated, and set the program to run a full system scan daily.

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References

  • Photo Credit Microsoft

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