Error Code 0xc0000098: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Solutions

In this guide, we’ll break down what Error Code 0xc0000098 means, why it occurs, and most importantly, how you can fix it.

Fortunately, there are several methods available to fix this issue, such as:

• Run Startup Repair

• Repair Disk Errors

• Rebuild BCD (Boot Configuration Data)

• Run System File Checker (SFC)

• System Restore or Reset

• Clean Install Windows

Continue reading the blog further to know the detailed steps of these methods to fix the issue error code 0xc0000098.  

What is error code 0xc0000098 ?

Error code 0xc0000098 is a critical error that affects Windows users and prevents them from booting their system normally.

Moreover, it is associated with the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), which can be a stressful sight for anyone encountering it for the first time.

Here’s a breakdown of what this error code means:

What does it mean ?

This error indicates a problem with the boot configuration data (BCD) file. Additionally, the BCD file acts as a roadmap for the Windows startup process. Consequently, it tells your computer where to locate the essential files needed to start the operating system.

Why it happens ?

Various factors can corrupt or damage the BCD file, resulting in error code 0xc0000098. Here are some common culprits:

• Corrupted system files: First, malware, abrupt shutdowns, or even faulty hardware can lead to corrupted system files, including the BCD.

• Hard drive problems: In addition, physical damage to your hard drive or system partition errors can affect the BCD file.

• Boot sector problems: Moreover, viruses or accidental modifications to the boot sector can alter the way your computer finds the BCD.

• Recent system changes: Furthermore, major Windows updates, hardware changes, or disk cloning can sometimes cause unexpected conflicts with the BCD.

Symptoms

• Initially, the most prominent symptom is encountering the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) during startup.

• Additionally, the BSOD screen will typically display error code 0xc0000098 and a message stating that the boot configuration data file is corrupted or missing.

• Moreover, your computer may restart automatically after displaying the BSOD, but it will probably get stuck in a loop and cannot boot properly.

Also Check: How to fix error code 0x800705b4 ?

How to fix error code 0xc0000098 ?

Some users have encountered the Windows boot error 0xc0000098 after cloning their operating system or upgrading to Windows 10.

Consequently, this error prevents Windows from starting up properly. This error can occur in various situations.

To resolve it, you need to take action. When error 0xc0000098 appears, you might see this message: “Your PC/Device needs to be repaired.

Additionally, the Windows Boot Configuration Data file doesn’t contain a valid OS entry. File: BootBCD. Error code: 0xc0000098.”

Therefore, to resolve this issue, follow the below-mentioned methods to fix this error:  

Run Startup Repair

• Access WinRE: Firstly, the first step is to enter the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). Moreover, this process differs slightly depending on your Windows version. Search online for specific instructions on how to enter WinRE for your version.

• Navigate to Troubleshoot: Secondly, once in WinRE, locate the “Troubleshoot” option.

• Launch Startup Repair: Furthermore, click on “Advanced options” followed by “Startup Repair.” This built-in tool attempts to diagnose and fix startup issues automatically. Let it run its course and see if it resolves the error.

Repair Disk Errors

• Back to WinRE: If Startup Repair doesn’t work, moreover, head back to WinRE using the method mentioned earlier.

• Open Command Prompt: Then, in WinRE, navigate to “Advanced options” and then “Command Prompt.”

• Run CHKDSK: Furthermore, type the following command and press Enter: chkdsk c: /f /r (Replace “c” with your system drive letter if different). This command checks your hard drive for errors and attempts to fix them. Additionally, the /f flag allows fixing detected errors, and /r locates bad sectors and retrieves readable data.

Rebuild BCD

• Access WinRE Command Prompt: Firstly, as in Method 2, enter WinRE and open Command Prompt.

• Identify Boot Entries: Secondly, type the following command and press Enter: bcdedit /enum This will display a list of boot entries. Moreover, look for the entry corresponding to your Windows installation (usually identified by the description). Furthermore, note down the identifier {identifier}, which is a long string of characters enclosed in curly braces {}.

• Set the Boot Entry as Active: Furthermore, type the following command and press Enter, replacing {identifier} with the actual identifier you noted down: bcdedit /set {identifier} active This sets the identified boot entry as the active one, hopefully allowing your system to boot properly.

Important Note: This method involves using Command Prompt. Therefore if you’re uncomfortable, consider seeking help from a tech-savvy friend or professional.

Run System File Checker

• WinRE Command Prompt Again: To begin with, just like in the previous methods, access Command Prompt within WinRE.

• Run SFC Scan: then, type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow This command scans for and repairs corrupt system files, potentially including the BCD file.

System Restore or Reset

• WinRE Time: Once again, enter WinRE using the appropriate method for your Windows version.

• System Restore (Optional): Additionally, if you suspect the error is recent, consider a system restore. Consequently, this can revert your system to a point before the error occurred. In WinRE, navigate to “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “System Restore.” Choose a restore point and follow the on-screen instructions.

• System Reset: Moreover, if a restore point isn’t available or doesn’t work, you can attempt a system reset. This reinstalls Windows while keeping your personal files (though backing up crucial data is highly recommended). In WinRE, go to “Troubleshoot” > “Reset this PC” and choose “Keep my files” during the process.

Also Check: How to fix Windows 0x8007000d error ?

Clean Install Windows

If none of the above methods work, a clean install of Windows will erase everything and provide a fresh start. This is a more complex solution, so be sure to back up all your important data before proceeding.

Preparation

• Back Up Your Data: Firstly, this is the most crucial step. Use an external hard drive or cloud storage to back up all your important files, photos, documents, applications (with license keys if needed), and bookmarks.

• Gather Installation Media: Additionally, you’ll need a bootable USB flash drive (at least 8GB) or DVD with the Windows installation media. Consequently, you can create this using the Microsoft Media Creation Tool:

• Find Your Product Key (Optional): Furthermore, while Windows 10 and 11 can often activate automatically if previously activated on that device, having your product key handy can be helpful. Therefore, you can usually find it on a sticker on your device or in your purchase confirmation email.

Booting from Installation Media

• Change Boot Order: Firstly, you need your computer to boot from the installation media first. Restart your PC and enter the BIOS or UEFI settings menu. Furthermore, this key varies depending on your manufacturer (often Esc, Delete, F2, F10, or F12). Consequently, consult your motherboard manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions.

• Set USB/DVD as Boot Priority: Additionally, once in BIOS/UEFI settings, find the boot order menu. Moreover, set your USB flash drive or DVD drive as the first boot priority. Therefore, save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings.

Clean Install Process

• Windows Setup: Firstly, your computer should now boot from the installation media. Additionally, follow the on-screen instructions through the Windows Setup process.

• License Agreement: Moreover, agree to the license terms.

• Choose “Custom Install”: Furthermore, during the installation type selection, choose “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).” Consequently, this ensures a clean install.

• Drive Selection: Additionally, you’ll be presented with available storage drives. Moreover, if you have multiple drives and want to keep data on another drive, be very careful when selecting the drive for Windows installation. Therefore, select the drive where you want Windows installed and choose “Delete” to format it.

• Start Installation: Furthermore, Windows will begin the installation process, which can take some time. Let it complete without interruption.

• Personalization and Settings: Finally, once the installation finishes, you’ll go through the initial setup process, including creating a user account, setting up internet connection, and configuring privacy settings.

Also Check: How to fix Windows Error Code 80180014 ?

Conclusion

In conclusion, encountering error code 0xc0000098 can be alarming, especially when it prevents your system from starting up properly.

However, this guide has outlined the causes behind this Windows boot error, its symptoms like the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), and most importantly, effective methods to fix it.

From running Startup Repair to performing a clean install of Windows, there are solutions tailored to different scenarios.

Therefore, by following these steps, you can resolve the error and regain access to your system without losing your valuable data.

Reference:

Frequently Asked Question’s (FAQ’s)