How to Fix Windows Error Code 0x00000090 A Comprehensive Guide

When faced with the Windows error code 0x00000090, also known as the "INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE" error, it's essential to address it promptly to restore your system’s functionality. This error indicates that Windows is unable to access the system partition during startup, which can be caused by various issues ranging from hardware malfunctions to corrupted system files. In this guide, we will delve into detailed troubleshooting steps and solutions to help you resolve this issue effectively.

Understanding Windows Error Code 0x00000090

Windows Error Code 0x00000090, often referred to as INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE, occurs when the operating system cannot access the system partition during the boot process. This issue can prevent Windows from starting up and may result in a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). Understanding the root cause of this error is crucial for applying the correct solution.

Common Causes of Error Code 0x00000090

Several factors can trigger the INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE error, including:

Corrupted or Missing System Files: Essential files required for booting Windows may be damaged or missing.
Faulty Hardware: Issues with hard drives, SSDs, or connections can lead to this error.
Driver Conflicts: Incompatible or outdated drivers can prevent Windows from accessing necessary hardware.
Recent Software or Hardware Changes: New installations or updates may cause conflicts leading to this error.
File System Corruption: Corruption within the file system can impede access to the boot device.

Preliminary Checks Before Advanced Troubleshooting

Before diving into more advanced solutions, we should perform a few preliminary checks:

Disconnect External Devices: Remove all external devices such as USB drives, printers, and external hard drives. Sometimes, these can interfere with the boot process.
Check Hardware Connections: Ensure that all internal components, like the hard drive and RAM, are properly connected and seated.
Verify Power Supply: Make sure your computer’s power supply is stable and delivering adequate power.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Error Code 0x00000090

Solution 1: Check and Repair Hardware Connections

Turn off Your Computer: Power down your system and unplug it from the power source.
Open the Case: Carefully open your computer’s case to access internal components.
Inspect Connections: Check all cables connected to your hard drive and other internal components. Ensure they are securely plugged in.
Re-seat Hardware: Remove and reinsert components like RAM and hard drives to ensure they are properly seated.
Close the Case: After checking and re-seating components, close the case and power on your computer to see if the issue is resolved.

Solution 2: Boot into Safe Mode

Restart Your Computer: If your system can boot, restart it.
Access Advanced Boot Options: During startup, press F8 or Shift + F8 to access the Advanced Boot Options menu.
Select Safe Mode: Choose "Safe Mode" or "Safe Mode with Networking" from the list. Safe Mode loads only essential drivers and can help you troubleshoot the issue.
Check for Issues: Once in Safe Mode, check for hardware issues, remove recently installed software, or update drivers.

Solution 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Open Command Prompt: In Safe Mode or from the Advanced Startup Options, open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
Run SFC: Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This command scans and repairs corrupted system files.
Run DISM: If SFC doesn’t resolve the issue, type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter. This tool fixes issues with the Windows image.

Solution 4: Update or Roll Back Drivers

Open Device Manager: Right-click on the Start button and select "Device Manager."
Update Drivers: Expand the categories and right-click on hardware devices. Choose "Update driver" and follow the prompts to check for updates.
Roll Back Drivers: If updating doesn’t help, right-click on the device, choose "Properties," go to the "Driver" tab, and select "Roll Back Driver" if available.

Solution 5: Perform a System Restore

Access System Restore: From Safe Mode or Advanced Startup Options, select "System Restore."
Choose a Restore Point: Follow the prompts to select a restore point from before the issue began.
Complete the Restoration: Allow the system to restore to the selected point and restart your computer.

Solution 6: Check Disk for Errors

Open Command Prompt: As described earlier, open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
Run CHKDSK: Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter. This command checks the disk for errors and repairs them.
Restart: Follow the prompts to schedule a disk check on the next reboot and restart your computer.

Solution 7: Reinstall Windows

Backup Data: Ensure all important data is backed up before proceeding.
Create Installation Media: Use the Windows Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB or DVD.
Reinstall Windows: Boot from the installation media and follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows.

When to Seek Professional Help

If none of the above solutions resolve the error, or if you are uncomfortable performing these steps, it may be time to consult a professional technician. Persistent hardware issues or severe system corruption may require expert intervention.

FAQs

What does Windows error code 0x00000090 mean?

Error code 0x00000090, or INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE, means Windows cannot access the system partition during boot. This often leads to a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD).

How can I fix error code 0x00000090?

You can fix this error by checking hardware connections, booting into Safe Mode, running SFC and DISM, updating or rolling back drivers, performing a System Restore, checking the disk for errors, or reinstalling Windows.

Can faulty hardware cause error code 0x00000090?

Yes, faulty hardware such as a damaged hard drive or loose connections can trigger this error.

How do I boot into Safe Mode?

Restart your computer and press F8 or Shift + F8 during startup to access Safe Mode. Choose "Safe Mode" or "Safe Mode with Networking."

What is System File Checker (SFC)?

SFC is a Windows tool that scans and repairs corrupted system files. You can run it from Command Prompt with the command sfc /scannow.

What does DISM do?

DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool) repairs issues with the Windows image. It can be run from Command Prompt with DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.

How do I check the disk for errors?

Use the CHKDSK tool by running chkdsk /f /r from Command Prompt to scan and fix disk errors.

When should I consider reinstalling Windows?

Consider reinstalling Windows if other troubleshooting steps fail or if the system is severely corrupted.

Conclusion

Resolving Windows Error Code 0x00000090 involves a systematic approach to troubleshooting. By following the outlined solutions, we can address the root causes of the INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE error, ranging from hardware issues to system file corruption. Each step, from checking hardware connections to reinstalling Windows, helps restore your system’s functionality. Should these steps prove insufficient, professional assistance may be necessary to ensure a complete resolution. With these comprehensive solutions, we can overcome the error and get our Windows systems back to optimal performance.

how to fix windows error code 0x00000090