Resolving Bootrec Fixboot Access Denied Errors on Reddit

BootRec.exe is a powerful tool included in Windows that allows users to troubleshoot and repair various issues related to the master boot record (MBR) and the partition table of hard drives, solid state drives (SSDs), and other storage devices. When you encounter an error message stating 'access denied' while attempting to run BootRec's fixboot command, it typically indicates a permissions or access rights issue.

In this article, we'll walk through step-by-step instructions on how to resolve the 'Bootrec Fixboot Access Denied' error when trying to boot into Windows 10/11 using UEFI firmware. The procedures outlined below are applicable for both MBR and UEFI-based systems but focus primarily on resolving issues with UEFI systems.

Understanding BootRec.exe Command-Line Parameters

Before diving into fixing the problem, it's essential to understand what command-line parameters do in relation to BootRec.exe:

- BootRec /fixboot: This parameter fixes any errors that may be present within a specified partition or volume. It is typically used when you encounter booting issues after performing an operating system installation.

Fix 1: Run bcdedit Command and Re-run Fixboot

If running the following command before attempting to run BootRec's fixboot doesn't resolve your issue:

bcdedit /set {default} safebootalign legacy

try these steps instead:

### Step 13

Open an elevated Command Prompt as administrator.

### Type `bcdedit` followed by Enter.

The output will display information about the current boot settings on your system. Look for a line that says 'Default' or something similar, depending on what version of Windows you're using (e.g., Windows 10/11).

### Note down the GUID associated with this entry.

### Type `bcdedit /set {GUID} safebootalign legacy` and press Enter.

Replace `{GUID}` with the actual GUID value noted in Step 3. This command forces UEFI firmware to boot from Legacy mode instead of its default Secure Boot settings.

Now, try running the following commands again:

- bootrec /fixboot

If you're still encountering an 'access denied' error after completing these steps and rebooting your system, proceed with Fix 2 below.

Fix 2: Run bcdedit Command from Safe Mode

Sometimes, boot-related issues can only be resolved by booting into a safe mode environment. Here's how to do it:

### Step 1

Restart your PC while holding down the Shift key on your keyboard as you press the power button simultaneously.

Your system should now enter Advanced Options.

### Step 4

Select 'Troubleshoot' from the list of options and then click/tap on 'Advanced Troubleshooting.'

### Step 5

Under 'Additional Repair Tools,' select 'Command Prompt (Admin)' or 'Windows PowerShell (Admin) depending upon your preference. If you see only one option, it's okay to proceed with that.

Once inside Command Prompt as administrator:

- Type `bcdedit /set {default} safebootalign legacy` and press Enter.

This command forces UEFI firmware to boot from Legacy mode instead of its default Secure Boot settings.

### Step 7

Now try running the following commands again:

```bash

bootrec fixm

bcdboot C:Windows /s N: /f UEFI

```

If you're still experiencing issues after completing these steps, there might be a deeper problem with your system's boot configuration or even hardware failure. In this case, consider performing an entirely fresh installation of Windows to start from scratch.

### Step 8

Finally, restart your PC and see if the BootRec /fixboot access denied error has been resolved now.

If you're still encountering issues after completing these steps, it may indicate a more serious problem with your system's boot configuration or hardware failure. In this case, consider performing an entirely fresh installation of Windows to start from scratch.

### Step 9

To prevent similar errors in the future:

- Always ensure that your UEFI firmware is up-to-date.

- Keep all drivers and software components current, including BootRec.exe itself.

If none of these solutions work for you, feel free to post more details about your situation on Reddit's respective forums or communities dedicated to troubleshooting Windows boot-related issues.

Bootrec fixboot access denied reddit