Surface Go Boot Troubles? Our Expert Guide to Troubleshooting and Fixing
What To Know
- A faulty hard drive can lead to the “No Bootable Device” error, as the device is unable to access the operating system files stored on the drive.
- If the “No Bootable Device” error occurred after installing a new software or driver, you can try performing a System Restore to revert your device to a previous state when it was working properly.
- By following the troubleshooting methods outlined in this guide, you can effectively resolve the “No Bootable Device” error on your Surface Go and restore your device to its fully functional state.
Experiencing the “No Bootable Device” error on your Surface Go can be a frustrating ordeal. This error prevents your device from booting up properly, leaving you unable to access your files and applications. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting methods you can employ to resolve this issue and restore your Surface Go to its functional state. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various approaches to fix the “No Bootable Device” error, providing step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting tips to help you get your device up and running again.
Identify the Cause
Before delving into the solutions, it’s essential to understand the potential causes of the “No Bootable Device” error:
- Corrupted or damaged boot files: The boot files, responsible for initiating the startup process, can become corrupted or damaged due to various reasons, such as malware infections or abrupt power outages.
- Hard drive failure: A faulty hard drive can lead to the “No Bootable Device” error, as the device is unable to access the operating system files stored on the drive.
- BIOS settings: Incorrect BIOS settings can prevent the Surface Go from recognizing the bootable device.
- Hardware malfunction: In rare cases, a hardware malfunction, such as a faulty motherboard or memory module, can cause the “No Bootable Device” error.
Troubleshooting Methods
1. Restart Your Surface Go
A simple restart can often resolve minor software glitches that may be causing the “No Bootable Device” error. To restart your Surface Go:
- Press and hold the power button for 30 seconds to force a shutdown.
- Release the power button and wait for a few seconds.
- Press the power button again to turn on the device.
2. Check BIOS Settings
Incorrect BIOS settings can prevent your Surface Go from recognizing the bootable device. To check the BIOS settings:
- Turn on your Surface Go and immediately press the F2 key or the Volume Up button to enter the BIOS setup.
- Navigate to the “Boot” section and ensure that the correct boot order is set.
- Save the changes and exit the BIOS setup.
3. Run System Restore
If the “No Bootable Device” error occurred after installing a new software or driver, you can try performing a System Restore to revert your device to a previous state when it was working properly:
- Turn on your Surface Go and immediately press the F8 key or Volume Down button to enter the Windows Recovery Environment.
- Select “Troubleshoot” and then “System Restore.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to select a restore point and complete the process.
4. Repair the Boot Files
Corrupted or damaged boot files can be repaired using the Bootrec utility. To repair the boot files:
- Turn on your Surface Go and immediately press the F8 key or Volume Down button to enter the Windows Recovery Environment.
- Select “Troubleshoot” and then “Advanced options.”
- Click on “Command Prompt.”
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands and press Enter after each command:
“`
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /rebuildbcd
“`
5. Reinstall Windows
If the previous methods fail to resolve the issue, you may need to reinstall Windows to restore your Surface Go to its factory settings. To reinstall Windows:
- Create a bootable USB drive using the Microsoft Media Creation Tool.
- Turn on your Surface Go and immediately press the F12 key to open the boot menu.
- Select the USB drive as the boot device.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the Windows installation process.
6. Contact Microsoft Support
If none of the above methods resolve the “No Bootable Device” error, it may indicate a hardware malfunction. In such cases, it’s advisable to contact Microsoft Support for further assistance.
7. Seek Professional Repair
If you are not comfortable performing the troubleshooting steps on your own, you can consider seeking professional repair from a qualified technician.
Summary: Restoring Your Surface Go to Functionality
By following the troubleshooting methods outlined in this guide, you can effectively resolve the “No Bootable Device” error on your Surface Go and restore your device to its fully functional state. Remember to approach each step with patience and accuracy, and do not hesitate to seek professional assistance if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I recover my data if my Surface Go has a “No Bootable Device” error?
A1: Yes, it is possible to recover your data in most cases. You can use a data recovery software or consult a professional data recovery service.
Q2: How can I prevent the “No Bootable Device” error from occurring in the future?
A2: Regularly updating your operating system and drivers, avoiding malware infections, and using a surge protector to prevent abrupt power outages can help prevent the “No Bootable Device” error.
Q3: What is the cost of repairing a Surface Go with a “No Bootable Device” error?
A3: The cost of repair depends on the severity of the issue and the repair method used. Contact Microsoft Support or a qualified technician for an accurate estimate.
