Are you stuck with an error message like “No Bootable Device” or “Operating System Not Found” every time you try to start your laptop? Don’t panic — this problem is usually related to BIOS boot priority settings or a loose internal hard drive. In this detailed article, we’ll walk you through how to fix the issue step-by-step, ensuring your laptop boots normally again.
Disclaimer: This guide involves accessing your BIOS settings and opening your laptop’s back panel. Proceed carefully and understand that physical hardware handling may void warranties. Reinstalling Windows (if needed) will erase all data on your hard drive. Back up your data if possible.
Common Causes of the Error
- Incorrect boot order settings in the BIOS
- A disconnected or loose internal hard drive
- A failed or corrupt hard disk
- Absence of an operating system
What You’ll Need
- A working keyboard and screen
- Optionally: a screwdriver (to open the back panel)
- Patience and a careful approach
Step 1: Force Shut Down the Laptop
If your system is stuck or frozen:
- Hold down the power button until the screen and all lights turn off.
- Wait a few seconds.
Step 2: Enter BIOS Settings
To enter the BIOS on most laptops:
- Press the power button to turn the laptop back on.
- Immediately and repeatedly press the
F2key (some models may useDELorESC, butF2is most common, especially on Acer, ASUS, and Sony VAIO).
This will take you to the BIOS setup screen.
Step 3: Navigate to the Boot Menu
Once inside the BIOS:
- Use the arrow keys to move to the Boot tab.
- Look for a list showing the Boot Priority Order.
- If External Device or Network Boot is selected as the first boot option — and you don’t have a USB or network image — this can cause the error.
Step 4: Set Internal Hard Drive as First Boot Option
- Navigate to the boot option labeled something like Internal Hard Disk or Hard Drive.
- Use the keyboard keys
F5orF6to move it to the top of the list (this varies depending on BIOS version). - Press Enter to confirm the selection.
Step 5: Disable Unnecessary Boot Options
If there are boot options like Network Boot, PXE Boot, or USB Boot listed above your hard disk:
- Highlight them.
- Press Enter and choose Disabled.
- Alternatively, move them below the internal hard drive in priority using
F5/F6.
Step 6: Save and Exit BIOS
- Press the key indicated for saving changes — typically
F10. - Confirm by pressing Enter when asked “Save configuration changes and exit?”
Your laptop should now attempt to boot from the internal drive.
Step 7: If It Still Doesn’t Work – Check Your Hard Drive Connection
If the hard disk is still not being detected in the BIOS:
- Turn off your laptop and disconnect it from power.
- Carefully open the back panel using a screwdriver.
- Locate the hard drive slot — it will usually be near the battery.
- Remove the hard drive by gently sliding it out, then reinsert it firmly to ensure a full connection.
- Some users insert a small piece of folded paper or foam to keep the drive firmly in contact.
- Screw the back panel securely.
Step 8: Restart the Laptop
- Power it back on and enter BIOS again (
F2). - Check if the hard disk is now detected under the Boot or Main tab.
- If it appears, follow the previous steps to ensure it’s first in the boot priority.
- Save and exit (
F10), then allow the system to boot.
You should now see the Windows boot screen instead of the error.
Why This Fix Works
Sometimes, over time or due to minor shocks, a laptop’s hard disk can become partially disconnected, even if the device seems physically fine. BIOS then fails to detect the drive, triggering the “No Bootable Device” message.
This guide helps you correct both boot order settings and hardware connection issues.
Bonus Tips
- If after these steps the system still does not boot, your hard drive may be faulty. Consider replacing it or using a bootable USB to reinstall Windows.
- You can create a bootable USB using Microsoft’s official tool here:
👉 https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows10
Final Thoughts
This common boot error is solvable with patience and a methodical approach. Whether it’s a BIOS misconfiguration or a simple hardware misalignment, these steps should help you restore your laptop to working condition.
Always remember: back up your important files regularly to avoid data loss in such situations.
Tags:
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Hashtags:
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