Unlock Easy Solutions: How to Fix No Bootable Device on Surface Go

Key points

The “No Bootable Device” error usually indicates that your Surface Go can’t locate a bootable drive, such as a hard drive or SSD, containing a valid operating system.
If your Surface Go is configured to boot from a device other than your hard drive (like a USB drive), you’ll encounter this error.

Open the back panel of your Surface Go (refer to your device’s manual for instructions) and check if the hard drive is securely connected to the motherboard.

Facing the dreaded “No bootable device” error on your Surface Go can be frustrating. This error message often means your computer can’t find a valid operating system to load, leaving you unable to access your files or use your device. But don’t panic! This guide will walk you through the most common causes and effective solutions to fix this issue and get your Surface Go back up and running.

Understanding the “No Bootable Device” Error

The “No Bootable Device” error usually indicates that your Surface Go can’t locate a bootable drive, such as a hard drive or SSD, containing a valid operating system. This could be due to several factors:

Damaged or corrupted boot sector: The boot sector is a crucial part of your operating system that tells the computer how to load the OS. Damage to this sector can prevent the system from booting.
Loose or disconnected hard drive: A loose connection between your hard drive and the motherboard can disrupt the boot process.
Failed hard drive: A faulty hard drive can also lead to the “No Bootable Device” error.

Incorrect boot order: If your Surface Go is configured to boot from a device other than your hard drive (like a USB drive), you’ll encounter this error.
Corrupted operating system: A corrupted operating system can also prevent your Surface Go from booting.
BIOS settings: Incorrect BIOS settings can sometimes prevent your Surface Go from recognizing your hard drive.

Troubleshooting Steps: How to Fix “No Bootable Device” on Surface Go

Now that you understand the potential causes, let’s delve into the troubleshooting steps:

1. Check for Loose Connections

Power off your Surface Go and unplug it from the power source.
Carefully detach the keyboard cover if you’re using one.

Inspect the hard drive connection: Open the back panel of your Surface Go (refer to your device’s manual for instructions) and check if the hard drive is securely connected to the motherboard. If it’s loose, gently re-seat the connection.
Check other connections: Inspect the connections of other components, such as the RAM modules, to ensure they are firmly in place.

2. Reset the BIOS Settings

Power on your Surface Go and repeatedly press the **F2 key** during the startup process to enter the BIOS setup.

Navigate to the “Boot” tab in the BIOS menu.
Check the boot order: Ensure that your hard drive is listed as the first boot device. If not, use the arrow keys to move it to the top of the list.
Save and exit: Press the **F10 key** to save the changes and exit the BIOS setup.

3. Run Startup Repair

Boot from a Windows installation media: Insert a USB drive or DVD containing a Windows installation disc into your Surface Go.
Start the installation process: Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the installation.
Choose “Repair your computer” from the installation menu.

Select “Troubleshoot” and then click on **”Advanced options.”**
Choose “Startup Repair” and follow the on-screen instructions.

4. Perform a System Restore

Boot from a Windows installation media (refer to the previous step).

Choose “Repair your computer” from the installation menu.
Select “Troubleshoot” and then click on **”Advanced options.”**
Choose “System Restore” and follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system to a previous point in time.

5. Reinstall Windows

If the above steps don‘t resolve the issue, you may need to reinstall Windows on your Surface Go. This will erase all data from your hard drive, so make sure to back up any important files before proceeding.

Boot from a Windows installation media.
Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows on your Surface Go.

Wrapping Up: Getting Your Surface Go Back on Track

The “No Bootable Device” error can be a daunting issue, but by following these troubleshooting steps, you can often restore your Surface Go to working order. Remember to carefully check connections, reset BIOS settings, and consider running diagnostics or reinstalling Windows if necessary. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to Microsoft Support for expert help.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if my Surface Go is still not booting after trying these steps?

If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting steps and your Surface Go still won’t boot, it’s possible that your hard drive is faulty. You may need to replace the hard drive with a new one.

2. Can I recover my data if I reinstall Windows?

Reinstalling Windows will erase all data from your hard drive, so it’s crucial to back up important files before proceeding. You can use an external hard drive, cloud storage, or a USB drive to back up your data.

3. How do I know if my hard drive is damaged?

You can use a hard drive diagnostics tool to check for errors on your hard drive. If the tool detects errors, it’s likely that your hard drive is damaged.

4. How can I prevent the “No Bootable Device” error from happening again?

To prevent this error, it’s important to keep your Surface Go’s operating system and firmware updated. Also, avoid physically jarring your Surface Go, as this could damage the hard drive.

5. Is there a way to access my files if my Surface Go won’t boot?

If your Surface Go won’t boot, you can try using a data recovery tool to access your files. However, this may not always be successful, and it’s best to consult a professional data recovery service if you’re unable to access your files.