How to Restore Master Boot Record

When the computer boots, it accesses the Master Boot Record (MBR) immediately after ensuring that the system's hardware is functioning. The MBR stores the data that initiates the loading of your computer's operating system. When this data becomes corrupted, the computer can no longer load the operating system. Fortunately, Microsoft Windows provides system recovery tools on Windows XP, Vista and 7. These tools are needed to restore the MBR.

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Windows 7, Vista or XP installation disks
Administrator password, if applicable

Instructions

Restore the MBR in Windows 7 or Vista
- 1
  
  Insert the Windows installation disk. Restart the computer.
- 2
  
  Select a language, a time, a currency and an input device/ Click "Next." Click "Repair Your Computer."
- 3
  
  You should now see your operating system. Select it and click "Next."
- 4
  
  Under Choose a Recovery Tool, find and click "Command Prompt." In the command prompt box, type in "Bootrec.exe." Press "Enter."
Restore the MBR in Windows XP
- 5
  
  Insert the installation disk, and restart the computer.
- 6
  
  Press the "R" key to start the Recovery Console once the "Welcome to Setup" windows appears. Select your operating system.
- 7
  
  Enter your password. If you do not have a password, leave the field blank. Press "Enter." You will now see the command prompt window. Type in "fixmbr." Press "Enter."

Tips & Warnings

Your BIOS must be configured to read from the CD/DVD drive when booting. Each BIOS varies, so please consult your computer manual or motherboard manual if your computer refuses to read the disk at start-up.
Click the first reference for further options, including completely erasing the Master Boot Record and for advanced configurations.
Some computers include the System Recovery software on the hard drive. Please see your computer manufacturer's manual for more information on running the program without the disk.
You should only restore the Master Boot Record after exhausting other system recovery and repair options.

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How to Restore Master Boot Record

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Restore the MBR in Windows 7 or Vista

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