He exported a backup just in case: bcdedit /export C:\BCD_Backup
If all repairs fail, restore from a recent :
: This usually happens on UEFI systems with Secure Boot enabled. Boot into the BIOS/UEFI settings, disable Secure Boot , try the command again, and then re-enable Secure Boot later.
To bypass this on MBR setups, use the boot sector restoration tool instead: bootsect /nt60 sys /mbr Use code with caution. windows server 2012 r2 boot repair
diskpart select disk 0 list partition select partition X (X = EFI system partition, typically ~100 MB, type "System") assign letter=S exit
Before diving into advanced commands, a few initial checks can resolve simple problems:
Remember that Windows Server 2012 R2 ended on October 9, 2018, and extended support ended on October 10, 2023. While you can still repair it, Microsoft no longer provides free security updates. If your hardware supports it, consider planning a migration to Windows Server 2019 or 2022 to ensure long-term stability and security. He exported a backup just in case: bcdedit
He tapped the keys to boot from the USB, bypassing the broken OS. Instead of the login screen, he was met with the blue "Choose an option" menu. He navigated through and into the Advanced options . 2. The Command Line Battlefield
If you are seeing specific error codes or want to try further troubleshooting steps, let me know: What or code is on the screen?
Note: If bootrec /rebuildbcd finds a Windows installation, type (Yes) to add it to the boot configuration list. Option B: Repair Instructions for UEFI / GPT Systems diskpart select disk 0 list partition select partition
bootrec /fixmbr bootrec /fixboot bootrec /scanos bootrec /rebuildbcd Use code with caution.
The system will diagnose the PC and attempt to fix boot files automatically. Allow the process to complete, then remove the installation media and restart the server to test.
(Ensure C: matches the actual drive letter where your Windows folder resides as viewed from WinRE). 2. Run System File Checker (SFC) Offline