NTLDR IS MISSING | Legacy boot loader missing

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Systems & Devices

Canonical

/systems/bios-uefi/error-codes/ntldr-is-missing/

Last Updated

Feb 27, 2026

Summary

The system is attempting a legacy boot but cannot find the required loader on the boot device.

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What This Code Means

“NTLDR is missing” is a legacy boot error indicating the system is trying to boot using older BIOS/MBR boot logic, but the expected loader file is missing or unreadable. It is often associated with boot order issues, incorrect boot mode, or boot file corruption.

Where Users Usually See This Code

Older systems or legacy boot configurations
After changing boot mode (UEFI/Legacy) or moving drives

Why This Code Appears

Boot order points to the wrong device
Legacy boot mode is enabled for a UEFI-installed OS
Boot sector/loader files are corrupted or missing

What Typically Happens Next

The machine stops booting and prompts for action

What This Code Is Not

It is not a Windows Update error
It is not a password issue

Troubleshooting Checklist

□ Verify boot mode (UEFI vs Legacy) matches how the OS was installed
□ Adjust boot order to the correct system disk
□ Use official recovery media to repair boot configuration when needed

Notes And Edge Cases

On modern UEFI systems, legacy boot errors may indicate the firmware is trying the wrong boot path.

Related Codes

8 links

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