Fixing Boot Issues in Windows Server 2008 / 2008 R2 Using the Installation CD Print

Fixing Boot Issues in Windows Server 2008 / 2008 R2 Using the Installation CD

If the system fails to boot and hangs without any error message, you can attempt to restore the boot files using built-in commands available on the Windows Server 2008 / 2008 R2 installation DVD.

This method helps resolve issues caused by a corrupted MBR, missing boot loader, or incorrect BCD configuration.

Steps to access recovery tools

1. Insert the Windows Server 2008 / R2 DVD and power on the server.
2. Press any key when prompted to boot from the CD.
3. Select language, time format, and keyboard layout, then click Next.
4. Click on Repair your computer.
5. Select the operating system to repair (if detected).
6. From the recovery options, choose Command Prompt.

Commands to repair the boot

In the Command Prompt window, execute the following commands in order:

bootrec /rebuildbcd
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
Drive:\boot\bootsect.exe /nt60 all

Replace Drive: with the actual drive letter of your DVD unit (e.g., D:\ or E:\).

Note

This procedure will rebuild the system’s boot structure, including the BCD and MBR files. Reboot the system afterwards to verify if the issue has been resolved.