Boot Configuratin Data (BCD): Backup and Recovery in Windows

Explore the essential guide to BCD backup and recovery in Windows in this comprehensive tutorial. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, understanding how to safeguard and recover your system’s boot configuration data is crucial. Join us as we demystify the process and equip you with the knowledge to protect your Windows system effectively.

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Step 1. Overview of the Problem

The boot manager executes the loading procedure in accordance with the existing configuration which is kept in a special storage of configuration data, BCD (Boot Configuratin Data). This storage is a special binary file named BCD, located in the BOOT directory of the active partition (it is the same “hidden” partition marked as a “System Reserved”).

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The boot manager bootmgr loads the core of Windows OS installed on the computer, in accordance with the loading into BCD storage. Besides that, based on the BCD configuration the loader can load other Windows OS which are installed on this computer, Linux-type OS, mount and load from a virtual drive file (if the system is installed on a vhd disk) or from .wim image.

Boot Configuratin Data (BCD): Backup and Recovery in Windows

BCD storage is somewhat similar to the boot.ini file that contains loading parameters which we know back from the days of Windows XP /2000. Yet you cannot modify the file with the help of a text editor. Modifying the BCD storage editor is possible with a special command prompt utility, Boot Configuration Data Editor — bcdedit.exe (it is located in the directory c:\Windows\System32).

It should be understood that correctness of loading Windows OS depends on accuracy and consistency of the information in BCD storage. If this file is damaged or deleted, Windows will not able to load correctly. That is why in any experiments with BCD storage (installation of an additional OS with dual-boot or multi-boot options, adjustment of additional loading parameters), it is recommended to backup the BCD storage configuration so that you can recover it if something goes wrong.

In this article, we will consider the methodology for BCD storage backup and recovery in Windows 10.

Step 2. BCD Storage Backup

Launch the command prompt with administrator privileges and execute the following command:

bcdedit /export e:/bcd_backup.bcd

In this example, BCD storage configuration will be exported to disk E:\ (it is ideal that this disk should be an external storage media or a USB drive) into the file bcd_backup.bcd.

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Step 3. Re-creating BCD Storage

In case there was an error in modifying BCD or a failure happened, and the system can no longer load properly (for example, there are errors like BOOTMGR is Missing or BOOTMGR is compressed) it is necessary to re-create BCD storage. For this purpose:

  • Boot from an installation / boot DVD disk or a USB disk containing Windows 10.
  • If you use an installation disk, select the option Repair your computer.
Windows 10 PC Repair
  • Launch command prompt by going to Troubleshoot -> Advanced Option ->Command Prompt.
  • In command prompt, execute the commands:
    • bootrec /FixMbr – overwriting master boot record in the system partition.

      • bootrec /FixMbr

    • bootrec /FixBoot – re-creating the boot sector in the boot partition.

      • bootrec /FixBoot

    • bootrec /ScanOS – scanning all disks to search for Windows-compatible systems installed in these disks.

      • bootrec /ScanOS

    • bootrec /RebuildBcd - this command should try to find a Windows OS installed on this computer and add a record on the discovered OS into BCD. Besides, there are the following launch parameters of bootrec.

      • bootrec /RebuildBcd

Step 4. Recovering BCD Storage From a Backup File

You can replace the current configuration of BCD storage by importing a previously saved configuration into it with the help of the command: bcdedit /import e:\bcd_backup.bcd

bcdedit /import e:/bcd_backup.bcd

After importing BCD, restart the computer and make sure that all previously existing boot variants are available and work correctly.

Vladimir Artiukh

Author: , Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: , Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • What is BCD and what is its role in Windows?

    BCD (Boot Configuration Data) is a store of data used by the Windows operating system to manage the boot process. It contains boot-time configuration data that defines how the operating system is started and which OS components are loaded at startup. BCD is used to configure boot settings such as the default operating system, the order of boot devices, and the location of system files. It also stores information about hardware devices such as hard drives, CD/DVD drives, and USB devices. BCD is an essential part of the Windows boot process, and it is necessary for a successful boot.

  • Why is it important to backup the BCD in Windows?

    Backing up the BCD in Windows is important because it contains critical information about the system's configuration, such as boot options, installed programs, and device drivers. If the BCD becomes corrupted or deleted, it can cause the system to fail to boot. Backing up the BCD ensures that you can recover the system's configuration in the event of a problem.

  • Can BCD corruption cause boot problems in Windows?

    Yes, BCD corruption can cause boot problems in Windows. BCD, or Boot Configuration Data, is a critical component of the Windows boot process and is responsible for loading the operating system. If the BCD is corrupted, the system will not be able to boot properly.

  • How can you access the BCD store in Windows?

    The BCD store can be accessed in Windows by opening the Command Prompt and typing in the command "bcdedit". This will open the Boot Configuration Data (BCD) store, which contains boot-time configuration data.

  • What is the difference between BCDedit and Bootrec commands in Windows?

    BCDedit is a command-line tool used to view and modify the boot configuration data store. It is used to configure boot entries, such as the location of the boot loader, the operating system, and other settings. Bootrec is a command-line tool used to repair the Windows boot process. It can be used to fix problems such as missing or corrupt boot files, incorrect boot order, and other issues that can prevent Windows from booting. Bootrec can also be used to create new boot entries and repair the Master Boot Record (MBR).

Comments (13)

  • blackweta
    blackweta 4.01.2017 09:24 #
    Great post extremely helpful! Saved to Evernote!
    Reply
  • Lock
    Lock 21.10.2016 16:17 #
    I wonder why, when I insert the disc into the drive, then on a black background blinking cursor, and then the screen goes blank? Nothing else happens, restart does not help, it all starts again.
    Reply
  • Neil Jex-Blake
    Neil Jex-Blake 4.05.2016 23:24 #
    What are some best practices for BCD backup and recovery in Windows?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 4.05.2016 23:58 #
      1. Create a backup plan: Before attempting any backup and recovery, create a plan that outlines the data you need to back up, how often you should back up, and where you should store the backups.
      2. Use reliable software: Use reliable backup software that is compatible with your Windows operating system.
      3. Choose an appropriate backup type: Choose the appropriate backup type for your data, such as full, incremental, or differential backups.
      4. Schedule regular backups: Schedule regular backups to ensure that your data is backed up regularly and kept up to date.
      5. Test your backups: Test your backups to make sure they are working properly and that you can recover your data in case of an emergency.
      6. Store backups in multiple locations: Store your backups in multiple locations to ensure that your data is safe and secure in case of a disaster.
      7. Keep your backup software up to date: Make sure that you keep your backup software up to date with the latest patches and updates.
      Reply
  • Wesley Mitchell
    Wesley Mitchell 4.05.2016 20:40 #
    Can third-party software be used to backup and restore the BCD in Windows?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 4.05.2016 20:58 #
      Yes, third-party software can be used to backup and restore the BCD in Windows. There are several programs available that allow users to backup, restore, and edit the BCD. These programs include EasyBCD, bcdedit, Bootice, and Boot Configuration Data Editor.
      Reply
  • Chance Freeland
    Chance Freeland 4.05.2016 18:46 #
    What are some common causes of BCD corruption in Windows?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 4.05.2016 19:10 #
      1. Improper shutdown: Shutting down your computer without properly exiting all applications or programs can cause BCD corruption.
      2. Malware: Malware can corrupt the BCD, leading to system instability.
      3. Hard drive failure: A failing hard drive can cause BCD corruption.
      4. Corrupted drivers: Corrupted or outdated drivers can lead to BCD corruption.
      5. System updates: System updates can cause BCD corruption if they are not properly installed.
      Reply
  • Hannibal Jenner
    Hannibal Jenner 4.05.2016 15:27 #
    How can you restore the BCD in Windows using Bootrec?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 4.05.2016 16:00 #
      1. Boot from your Windows installation media.
      2. When prompted, press any key to boot from the installation media.
      3. On the Install Windows screen, select your language, time and currency format, and keyboard or input method, and then click Next.
      4. Click Repair your computer.
      5. Select Troubleshoot.
      6. Select Command Prompt.
      7. Type the following command and press Enter: bootrec /rebuildbcd
      8. Follow the instructions on the screen to add any Windows installations to the BCD.
      9. Once the process is complete, type exit and press Enter to close the Command Prompt window.
      10. Restart your computer to finish restoring the BCD.
      Reply
  • Jerome Hill
    Jerome Hill 4.05.2016 12:17 #
    What is the command to backup the BCD in Windows using BCDedit?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 4.05.2016 12:47 #
      The command to backup the BCD in Windows using BCDedit is: bcdedit /export <filename>.bcd
      Reply
  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 27.04.2018 13:13 #
    Read about BCD backup and recovery in Windows. If you do have any questions, don't hesitate to contact our technical support service - we will be happy to help you.
    Reply
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