Windows 8.1: Can't boot using either HDD or bootable media (BOOTVID.dll missing)

Mahm00d

Reputable
May 21, 2014
1
0
4,510
I have a Windows 8.1 64bit on my PC. The problem started with getting this message at boot:

Preparing automatic repair...

After that, nothing but a blank screen.

I decided to boot using a bootable DVD. So, I made one (using Microsoft Windows 7 USB DVD Tool) and boot with it.

Now, here's the problem, when booting from DVD (the same with flash) it goes to the recovery screen with this message:

Recovery
Your PC needs to be repaired
The operating system couldn't be loaded because a required file is missing or contains errors.

File: BOOTVID.dll
Error Code: 0xc0000098


At this point, the only option I have is to click F8 for startup options. But no matter what option I choose (safe mode, ...), I goes back again to the recovery screen and the same story!

As a side note, the above scenario is when the boot option is set UEFI in BIOS. When Legacy mode is selected, after the loading screen of bootable DVD/flash, only a blank screen is shown. So, I can't use that either.

Anyone has any ideas what's going on and how can I fix this?



 
Solution
if safe mode is doing the same thing, then something has either removed or damaged the file.
*registry issues
*malware/virus
*HDD failure

To my knowledge, if safe mode has the same boot issue, then it probably means your looking at a system restore.

Failing that, your only options are windows refresh/repair, or worst case a complete re-install

blockhead78

Distinguished
if safe mode is doing the same thing, then something has either removed or damaged the file.
*registry issues
*malware/virus
*HDD failure

To my knowledge, if safe mode has the same boot issue, then it probably means your looking at a system restore.

Failing that, your only options are windows refresh/repair, or worst case a complete re-install
 
Solution
Life would be a lot easier if you created a Recovery Drive on another W8 machine, then you could access the proper Recovery Environment, i.e. Troubleshoot/Advanced Options... Perhaps get a friend to create one for you? Long as Architecture the same, 32 or 64 bit...