How to Fix MBR in Windows XP Home

The master boot record, or MBR, in Windows XP allows users with multiple operating systems installed on their computers to choose which one boots when the computer starts. If the MBR becomes damaged, it could interfere with this ability and could cause problems when the computer boots. In this case, users can perform a repair installation of Windows XP from the original XP installation disk to correct the problem.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP installation disc

Instructions

1. Insert the Windows XP installation disk into the computer's disk drive. Reboot the computer.

2. Press any key to boot from the installation CD when the message appears prompting you to do so.

3. Follow the onscreen instructions. When you see the "To repair a Windows XP installation using Recovery Console, press R" option, press "R" on the keyboard.

4. Enter the information for the Administrator account of your copy of XP.

5. Type "fixmbr" in the command prompt that appears, then hit the "Enter" key. The computer reboots.

Tips & Warnings

• Save any work before performing the repair installation and back up any important programs in case they are lost during the repair process.

References

• Help Desk Geek: How to fix MBR in Windows XP and Vista