Windows 10 BCS file Error code 0xc0000001. Recovery environment won't work

[Winniewinwin]

Why is my windows not fixing itself in command prompt with the requisite commands (ie BCDedit or scf Scannow)? And why does my laptop turn off when I try to open recovery environment or uefi settings?

[Raj_05]

Hi @Winniewinwin,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

The error code 0xc0000001 typically indicates a critical boot file is missing or corrupted, causing the Windows startup failure. Since you mentioned that commands like BCDEdit and SFC Scannow aren't fixing the issue, and the laptop shuts down when attempting to open the recovery environment or UEFI settings, it suggests that there could be a hardware issue or deeper system corruption beyond what the recovery tools can handle.

Here are some possible causes and troubleshooting steps:

Corrupted Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

• The error indicates that Windows cannot find or load the Boot Configuration Data (BCD). BCDEdit and bootrec commands are supposed to help rebuild this, but if these fail, it could mean deeper corruption or permission issues.

UEFI/BIOS or Firmware Problem

• Since the laptop shuts off when accessing UEFI settings, this could indicate a hardware issue related to the motherboard, power supply, or a corrupted BIOS/UEFI.

Hardware Failure

• Sudden shutdowns when entering the recovery environment or BIOS settings could suggest a failing component like the RAM, SSD/HDD, or motherboard. These components could also cause the system to be unable to boot properly or execute commands to repair Windows.

Power or Heat Issues

• If the laptop overheats or detects a power issue, it may shut down to protect its components, which could explain why it shuts off when trying to access certain settings.

Troubleshooting Steps:

Step 1: Check Power Supply and Heating

• Ensure the power adapter is functioning properly and delivering sufficient power to the laptop.
• Check for overheating issues. Allow the laptop to cool down and ensure ventilation is clear.

Step 2: Run Diagnostics on Hardware

• RAM: Try reseating the RAM or swapping it with known working sticks.
• Storage Drive: Test the SSD/HDD by using a bootable diagnostic tool like CrystalDiskInfo or the manufacturer's diagnostic software (if you can boot from a USB).

Step 3: Safe Mode Access

• If you can't boot into normal recovery:
  1. Force the Safe Mode: Restart the laptop several times (3-4 times) to trigger automatic repair, or use an external bootable USB with Windows 10 to try getting into Safe Mode.
  2. Once in Safe Mode, attempt chkdsk /f or sfc /scannow again from the command prompt.

[Raj_05]

Step 4: Try Windows Bootable USB

• Use a Windows 10 bootable USB created from another computer to repair the installation. Here’s how:
  1. Insert the USB drive and restart the laptop.
  2. Boot from the USB drive (you might need to change boot settings in UEFI if possible).
  3. Select Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Command Prompt.
  4. Run bootrec /fixmbr, bootrec /fixboot, bootrec /scanos, and bootrec /rebuildbcd.

Step 5: Reset the BIOS/UEFI

• If you manage to access UEFI, try resetting BIOS settings to default.
• If the laptop shuts down during this, it may indicate a deeper hardware problem with the motherboard.

Step 6: Full System Reinstall

• If you can’t repair the BCD or boot configuration, a full Windows reinstall might be necessary. Boot from a Windows USB, back up important data (if possible), and reinstall the OS.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support