How to Fix Error Code 0xc0000034 on Windows 11

Encountering Error Code 0xc0000034 on your Windows 11 can be frustrating, especially if your laptop was running fine the day before. This error means that the Boot Configuration Data (BCD) file is missing or corrupted, preventing your system from booting. If you recently inserted an external device like an SD card or made system changes, they could be contributing factors.

Don’t worry! You can fix this issue yourself by following the troubleshooting steps below.

What Causes Error Code 0xc0000034?

This error typically occurs due to:

• Corrupted or missing Boot Configuration Data (BCD).
• Recent software or system updates.
• Booting with an external device (e.g., SD card, USB drive) inserted.
• Accidental deletion or corruption of system files.

If you were modding a Nintendo 3DS or using an SD card with modified files, it’s possible that the laptop attempted to boot from the external device, causing boot conflicts.

How to Fix Error Code 0xc0000034

Step 1: Remove All External Devices

1. Power off your laptop.
2. Remove any external storage devices, including your 3DS SD card, USB drives, and external hard drives.
3. Restart your laptop and check if it boots normally.

If the issue persists, proceed to the next steps.

Step 2: Use Windows Automatic Repair

Windows has a built-in repair tool that may fix this issue automatically.

1. Power on your laptop and force shut it down (hold the power button for 5-10 seconds) when the Windows logo appears.
2. Repeat this 2-3 times until you see “Preparing Automatic Repair”.
3. Once the recovery screen appears, select:
   • Advanced Options → Troubleshoot → Startup Repair.
4. Allow Windows to diagnose and attempt to fix the issue.

If Windows Startup Repair fails, move to Step 3.

Step 3: Manually Rebuild the Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

If the boot files are damaged, you’ll need to rebuild them manually.

Create a Bootable Windows 11 USB

If you don’t already have one, you’ll need another computer to create a bootable USB:

1. Download the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft:
   • Download Windows 11
2. Insert a USB drive (8GB or larger) and create a bootable installation media.

Boot from the USB Drive

1. Insert the bootable USB drive into your Dell laptop.
2. Turn on your laptop and repeatedly press F12 to access the Boot Menu.
3. Select the USB drive from the list and press Enter.
4. When the Windows Setup screen appears, click Next, then select Repair your computer.

Run Boot Repair Commands

1. Select Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Command Prompt.
2. Type the following commands and press Enter after each: bootrec /fixmbr bootrec /fixboot bootrec /scanos bootrec /rebuildbcd
3. If prompted with “Add installation to boot list?”, type Y and press Enter.
4. Close the Command Prompt and restart your laptop.

If your system still doesn’t boot, proceed to Step 4.

Step 4: Perform System Restore

If your system was working fine earlier, you can restore it to a previous state.

1. Boot from the Windows USB as described in Step 3.
2. Select Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → System Restore.
3. Choose a restore point (before the error occurred) and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 5: Reset Windows (Last Resort)

If none of the above methods work, you may need to reset Windows.

1. Boot into Advanced Options (refer to Step 3).
2. Select Troubleshoot → Reset this PC.
3. Choose “Keep my files” (this will reinstall Windows while keeping personal files intact).
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

Additional Considerations

How Much Does It Cost to Fix This Issue?

Many users worry about tech support costs. Here’s what to expect:

• DIY Fix: Free (if following this guide).
• Local Tech Support: ~$50–$100 (depends on the issue and location).
• Official Repair: Could be higher, depending on warranty coverage.

If you’re not confident in fixing it yourself, getting help from a technician is a good option, but it shouldn’t be an expensive fix.

Is This a Serious Issue?

• No! This is a common Windows boot issue and not a sign of hardware failure.
• It is completely fixable using the steps outlined above.
• If you follow the instructions carefully, you do not need professional help in most cases.

Alternative Fix: Use a Linux Live USB

• If none of the above methods work, you can use Rufus to create a Linux Live USB.
• Boot from the Linux USB and check if your drive is accessible.
• If you can access your files, back them up before reinstalling Windows.

Final Thoughts

The 0xc0000034 error is usually caused by missing or corrupted boot files, but it can be fixed without professional help using the methods above.

• Try removing external devices first.
• Use Automatic Repair to fix common boot errors.
• If needed, rebuild the BCD manually using a bootable USB.
• System Restore or Reset Windows can be used as a last resort.

If the problem persists, you may need to contact Tech Support or seek professional assistance. Let us know if you need more help!