Won't boot after A29 BIOS update

[yogi65]

Update installed the 2.2.8.0 (A29) BIOS update and when I rebooted it says it can't find the OS.  I've tried backing out of the update, which it won't do.  I've used that little system check, run long tests on processory, memory, and both drives.  I've tried rebooting it, it won't restore.

It asked for a Bitlocker number, which I went to and got and entered.  I had two, one per drive I suppose.  It rejected one but took the other--then came back with messages like "Install an OS."

I didn't interrupt the BIOS so I don't know what to do.  It's a really good computer running top-notch lately before this, and only 2 years and 3 months old.

[Raj_05]

Hi @yogi65, 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like you're facing issues with your HP laptop after a BIOS update. Here are some steps you can try to resolve the problem.

Check Boot Order and Boot Devices

• Ensure that the boot order in BIOS is correct. Sometimes after a BIOS update, the boot order might get reset. Make sure your primary drive (usually the main SSD or HDD) is selected as the first boot device.

Disable Secure Boot (if applicable)

• In some cases, Secure Boot settings can cause issues with booting after a BIOS update. Try disabling Secure Boot temporarily to see if it allows the laptop to boot properly.

Reset BIOS Settings to Default

• There should be an option in the BIOS settings to reset everything to default settings. This can sometimes resolve issues caused by incorrect BIOS configurations after an update.

Reinstall Windows Boot Loader

• If the above steps don't work, you might need to repair or reinstall the Windows boot loader:
  • Using Installation Media: Boot from a Windows installation USB or DVD and select "Repair your computer" > "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options" > "Startup Repair". This will attempt to fix any issues with the boot loader.
  • Command Prompt: From the same "Advanced options" menu, you can access Command Prompt and use commands like bootrec /fixmbr, bootrec /fixboot, and bootrec /rebuildbcd to repair the boot configuration.

Check for BitLocker Encryption Issues

• Since you mentioned BitLocker, ensure that you have the correct BitLocker recovery key if your drive is encrypted. Sometimes, entering the correct key can resolve boot issues related to BitLocker.

By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and hopefully resolve the boot issue caused by the BIOS update on your HP laptop.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Alden4

HP Support

[Raj_05]

Hi @yogi65, 

Thank you for your response, 

It sounds like you've made progress getting Windows reinstalled! As for your 1TB gumstick SSD drive not appearing in Disk Manager, there are a few steps we can try:

• Check Disk Management Again: Sometimes drives don't appear due to initialization issues. Go to Disk Management (you can search for "Disk Management" in the Start menu), and see if your SSD appears there. It might need to be initialized or have a drive letter assigned.
• Update Disk Drivers: Ensure your disk drivers are up to date. Sometimes outdated drivers can prevent disks from being recognized properly. You can update drivers through Device Manager.
• Check BIOS Settings: Ensure that your SSD is recognized in the BIOS. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS settings (usually by pressing F10, F2, Esc, or Del key during startup). Check if your SSD is listed there under storage devices.
• Check for Physical Connection Issues: If your SSD is an internal gumstick type, ensure it's securely connected to the motherboard. Sometimes loose connections can cause recognition issues.
• Use Disk Management Tools: If Disk Management doesn't recognize the drive, you can try using disk management tools provided by the SSD manufacturer. Some manufacturers offer utilities to manage and diagnose their drives.
• Data Recovery Tools: If all else fails and you suspect the drive might have encountered some issues during the update process, consider using data recovery tools to recover important files from the drive before attempting any further troubleshooting that might involve formatting or initializing the drive.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Alden4

HP Support