Recovery Boot Configuration Data File Missing [Quick Fix]

This tutorial  will explain you why exactly you got the blue screen on your Windows 10 or Windows 8.1, 8 devices with the error message Recovery: boot configuration data missing. We’ll also tell you what steps you need to follow in order to fix this issue in the shortest time possible.

The error message “recovery: boot configuration data missing” in Windows 8 or Windows 10 is basically caused by some missing system files in the Windows 10, 8.1 operating system. So either you deleted them accidentally or you caught a virus that deleted some critical system files you will still get stuck with this error message.

What to do if boot configuration data file is missing

Solution 1: Repair it using Windows 10, 8.1 or 8 installation CD/DVD

1. Place the Windows 10 or Windows 8.1, 8 DVD/CD in the device.
2. Reboot the Windows 10 or Windows 8.1, 8 device.
3. After the device starts again you will see a message saying to press any key to boot from the CD or DVD.
4. You will need to press a key on the keyboard is order to boot from the CD or DVD.
5. Now you will get to a window where you have to select the time and the type of keyboard you wish to use. Just follow the instructions on the screen to get to the next window.
6. Now in the Blue window you will have in the lower left side of the screen a feature “Repair your computer”.
7. Left click on the “Repair your computer” feature.
8. Now you will get to a “Choose an option” screen.
9. Left click on “Troubleshoot” presented in the “Choose an option” screen.
10. Now left click or tap on “Advanced options” presented in the “Troubleshoot” screen.
11. Left click or tap on the “Command Prompt” feature.
12. Now after the “Command Prompt” window is opened write in there the following line: “Bootrec /fixmbr” without the quotes.
13. Press the “Enter” button on the keyboard.
14. Next, you will need to write in the command prompt the following: “Bootrec /fixboot” without the quotes.
15. Press the “Enter” button on the keyboard.
16. Write in the command prompt the following: “Bootrec /scanos” without the quotes.
17. Press the “Enter” button.
18. Write in the command prompt the following: “Bootrec /rebuildbcd” without the quotes.
19. Press the “Enter” button on the keyboard.

— READ ALSO: Accidentally deleted Windows 10 recovery/boot partition

Solution 2: Run Startup/Automatic Repair

1. Insert Windows  installation disk (it has to be bootable)
2. When you get the image below, press any key to continue
3. Select the preferred language and press enter
4. Click on ‘Repair your computer’ on the bottom left of Windows Setup window
5. From the options proposed, press ‘Troubleshoot’ 
6. When on Advanced Options screen, choose Automatic Repair, wait for the process to be finished and restart your PC

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Now that you have done all the above steps you should have your Windows 8, 8.1, and Windows 10 up and running. If you had any complications during this tutorial please write us in the comments section on the bottom of the page and we will see what we can do to help you further with this issue.

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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in October 2014 and has been since revamped and updated for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.