How to fix Windows 11/10 0xc000000e error code after clone?

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Cloning a hard drive or SSD is a common practice when upgrading storage or migrating an operating system. However, one frustrating issue that users often encounter after cloning is the Windows Boot Manager error 0xc000000e, which prevents the system from starting properly. This error typically appears with the message:

"Your PC needs to be repaired. The Boot Configuration Data for your PC is missing or contains errors."

Understanding why this error occurs and how to fix it is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition after cloning. This comprehensive guide will explore the root causes of error 0xc000000e, provide step-by-step solutions for Windows 11 and Windows 10, and offer additional troubleshooting methods to prevent future boot failures.

Why Does Error 0xc000000e Occur After Cloning?

The 0xc000000e error is related to the Boot Configuration Data (BCD) in Windows. When cloning a drive, several factors can lead to this issue:

Corrupted or Missing BCD File – The cloning process may fail to properly copy the boot configuration, leading to an incomplete or damaged BCD store.
Incorrect Boot Order in BIOS/UEFI – If the system tries to boot from the wrong drive (e.g., the old disk instead of the cloned one), Windows cannot locate the necessary boot files.
Partition Alignment Issues – If the cloned drive has a different partition structure (e.g., GPT vs. MBR mismatch), Windows may fail to recognize the bootloader.
Faulty Cloning Software – Some disk cloning tools may not handle system-reserved partitions correctly, leading to boot errors.

Understanding these causes helps in applying the right fixes, whether you're using Windows 11 or Windows 10.

How to Fix Error 0xc000000e in Windows 11

Method 1: Rebuild BCD Using Command Prompt (Boot Repair)

Boot from Windows 11 Installation Media (USB/DVD).
Select Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Command Prompt.

Run the following commands in order:

bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd

Restart your PC and check if the error is resolved.

Method 2: Ensure Correct Boot Drive in BIOS/UEFI

Restart your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F2, F12, DEL, or ESC).
Navigate to the Boot tab and ensure the cloned drive is set as the first boot device.
Save changes and exit.

Method 3: Use Startup Repair Tool

Boot from Windows 11 installation media.
Go to Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Startup Repair.
Follow the on-screen instructions and restart.

How to Fix Error 0xc000000e in Windows 10

Method 1: Rebuild BCD Manually

Boot from a Windows 10 installation USB/DVD.
Open Command Prompt from Advanced Startup Options.

Run these commands:

diskpart
list disk
select disk X (replace X with your Windows disk number)
list partition
select partition Y (select the EFI or System Reserved partition)
assign letter=S: (temporarily assigns a drive letter)
exit
bcdboot C:\Windows /s S: /f UEFI (or /f ALL for MBR)

Restart and check if the issue is resolved.

Method 2: Check Disk for Errors

In Command Prompt, run:
```
chkdsk /f /r C:
```
Wait for the scan to complete and restart.

Method 3: Reinstall Windows 10 (Last Resort)

If all else fails, a clean reinstall may be necessary. Backup your data before proceeding.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips

1. Verify Disk Cloning Process

Use reliable cloning software like Macrium Reflect, Clonezilla, or EaseUS Todo Backup.
Ensure the entire disk (including EFI and recovery partitions) is cloned.

2. Convert MBR to GPT (or Vice Versa) if Needed

If the original disk was MBR but the new system requires GPT (or vice versa), use:
```
mbr2gpt /convert /disk:X (in Command Prompt)
```

3. Update Firmware and Drivers

Check for BIOS/UEFI updates from your motherboard manufacturer.
Ensure storage drivers are up to date.

Final Thoughts

Encountering the 0xc000000e error after cloning can be frustrating, but with the right steps, it’s entirely fixable. Whether you're on Windows 11 or Windows 10, rebuilding the BCD, adjusting BIOS settings, or running disk checks can restore normal boot functionality.

Preventing Future Boot Errors

To avoid similar issues in the future:

Always verify the cloning process before removing the old drive.
Keep a Windows recovery USB handy for emergencies.
Regularly back up important data to prevent loss during system repairs.

By following this guide, you should be able to resolve error 0xc000000e and ensure a smooth boot after cloning your Windows drive.