How to Perform Windows Server 2022 Boot Repair

Common causes of Windows Server 2022 boot failures

Encountering boot issues in Windows Server 2022 can be frustrating, especially when the server plays a critical role in business operations. Boot failures can stem from various hardware and software issues. Here’s an overview of common causes that can help identify and resolve boot issues effectively.

1. Corrupt boot files

Boot files, like the Boot Configuration Data (BCD) or Master Boot Record (MBR), are essential for starting Windows Server. If MBR or BCD are missing/corrupted due to malware, unexpected shutdowns, or file system errors, the server may fail to boot.

2. Faulty updates or incomplete installation

Installing updates is essential for system security and performance. However, an incomplete or faulty update can lead to boot issues. This can occur due to power loss during installation or conflicts with installed drivers or software.

3. Damaged hard drive or SSD

Hardware issues with the server’s primary drive can lead to boot problems. Physical damage, aging components, or even corrupted data blocks on the hard drive or SSD can interfere with the server’s ability to locate boot files.

4. Incorrect boot order in BIOS/UEFI settings

If the server’s BIOS or UEFI settings prioritize the wrong drive or device, Windows Server may attempt to boot from a non-bootable source. This is common after hardware changes or certain BIOS updates.

6 Ways to perform Windows Server 2022 boot repair

Here are five effective methods to tackle boot repair in Windows Server 2022.

Fix 1. Run Windows Startup Repair

Windows Startup Repair is an automatic troubleshooting tool designed to detect and fix problems that prevent Windows from starting correctly. It scans your system for issues and attempts to repair them without needing complex manual intervention.

Step 1. Insert your Windows Server 2022 installation media and boot from it.

Step 2. Choose your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click "Next".

Step 3. On the installation screen, select the "Repair your computer" option in the lower left corner.

Step 4. Click on "Troubleshoot", then select "Advanced options".

Step 5. Choose "Startup Repair" and follow the prompts to complete the process.

Fix 2. Fix Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

The Boot Configuration Data (BCD) contains boot-time configuration parameters and controls how the operating system is loaded. If the BCD is corrupted or misconfigured, the server may fail to start.

Step 1. Boot from the installation media, select your language, and navigate to "Repair your computer".

Step 2. Select "Troubleshoot", then "Advanced options", and click on "Command Prompt".

Step 2. Run BCD repair commands:

bootrec /fixmbr

bootrec /fixboot

bootrec /scanos

bootrec /rebuildbcd

Step 3. After the commands have executed successfully, type exit and restart your server.

Fix 3. Run CHKDSK to check disk errors

CHKDSK (Check Disk) is a built-in Windows utility that scans and repairs file system errors on your hard drive, ensuring that your disk is functioning correctly.

Step 1. Boot from the installation media and access the Command Prompt through "Repair your computer" > "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options".

Step 2. Type chkdsk C: /f /r (replace C: with the drive letter of your Windows installation) and press Enter.

Step 3. Allow CHKDSK to scan and repair the disk. This may take some time, depending on the size and state of the disk.

Step 4. Once complete, type exit and restart your server.

Fix 4. Run System File Checker Command

The System File Checker (SFC) is a tool that scans for and repairs corrupted system files, which can lead to boot issues if left unresolved.

Step 1. Access Command Prompt: Boot from the installation media and navigate to the Command Prompt as described earlier.

Step 2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This command will initiate a scan for corrupt files.

Step 3. Allow the process to finish. If SFC finds any issues, it will attempt to repair them automatically.

Step 4. Once the scan is complete, type exit and restart your server.

Fix 5. Perform System Restore

System Restore is a recovery feature that allows you to revert your server's system files and settings to a previous state, which can resolve boot issues caused by recent changes or installations.

Step 1. Start by booting from the Windows Server installation media.

Step 2. Select "Repair your computer", then navigate to "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options".

Step 3. Choose "System Restore" and follow the prompts to select a restore point.

Step 4. Confirm your selection and allow the system to restore to the chosen point.

Fix 6. Use professional boot repair tool

In some cases, the built-in tools may not resolve the boot issue. Using professional boot repair tools can provide advanced options and a higher success rate for complex problems.

AOMEI Partition Assistant Server provides a reliable solution to repair boot problems effectively. It is designed with a range of powerful features aimed at IT administrators and businesses. The "Boot Repair" feature stands out as it simplifies the recovery process, making it an invaluable tool for server maintenance. Here’s why it’s ideal:

✎ User-friendly interface: Simple interface, even for complex operations. ✎ Fast boot repair: Effectively repairs boot errors without reinstalling Windows. ✎ Advanced disk management: Comprehensive tools beyond boot repair, including partition resizing, cloning, and data migration. ✎ Wide compatibility: Supports various Windows Server versions, including 2022, making it a versatile choice.

Step 1. Download and install AOMEI Partition Assistant Server on a working server computer and connect an available USB drive to it.

Step 2. Open the software and select the Boot Repair tool below the Recover section.

Step 3. Click the create a bootable disk option to create a bootable USB drive.

Step 4. Plug the created drive into the non-booting computer and change the boot sequence in BIOS to boot the computer from it. Once the computer starts up successfully, it will automatically load the Boot Repair tool and perform a scan of boot problems.

If your computer can boot normally, directly click Next to start the system’s boot entry scan.

Step 5. Once the scan completes, you can see all scan results, including system paths, system versions, and boot status. Select the repairable boot entries you want to repair and click the Repair button.

Step 6. Wait for the repair process to finish, then remove the bootable USB drive and boot the server from the original system drive.

Conclusion

Dealing with boot issues in Windows Server 2022 can be daunting, but with the right approach, you can efficiently restore your system to working order. By following these six methods, you can address various boot problems and ensure your server remains operational. Remember to maintain regular backups and system checks to minimize downtime and protect your data.