How to Fix “No Boot Device Found Press Any Key to Reboot the Machine“ Error on Windows

When you turn on your Windows laptop or computer, do you see a black screen that says "No Boot Device Found Press Any Key to Reboot the Machine"? This issue primarily affects Dell PCs and laptops, but it can also occur on devices from other manufacturers. What causes the problem, and how can you fix it? We'll discuss that in this article.

1. Make sure the hard drive can be detected and plugged in properly

Since your device cannot access the storage drive containing the operating system, check to see if the Windows installation drive is properly inserted and available for access. Follow these steps to find out:

  1. Hold the power button for a few seconds to turn off the device.
  2. Restart your computer by pressing the power button and continuing to press F2 until your BIOS settings appear. (See our guide on how to enter the BIOS for the keys you need to press to access the BIOS on devices from manufacturers other than Dell.)
  3. Go to System Information on the left.
  4. Look for the Device Information section on the right and check if your primary hard drive is listed there.
How to Fix “No Boot Device Found Press Any Key to Reboot the Machine“ Error on Windows
Check device information in BIOS

If your computer has multiple drives installed, check that your system can access the drive containing the operating system, meaning the drive details will appear in the device information section.

If your device can access the storage drive where Windows is installed, you can proceed with the third fix. However, if the drive does not appear in the device information section, it is not detected. In that case, run the diagnostics process.

2. Run the diagnostic process

Diagnostics helps us identify the problem hardware on our device. Since the storage drive may be the problem in this situation, we recommend running diagnostics to confirm our suspicions. Follow these steps to run the diagnostics process:

1. Hold the power button for a few seconds to turn off the device.

2. Restart your computer by pressing the power button and keep pressing F12.

3. Select Diagnostics and press Enter.

How to Fix “No Boot Device Found Press Any Key to Reboot the Machine“ Error on Windows
Select the Diagnostics option in BIOS

4. Click Yes in the next window.

5. Once the diagnostic test is finished, it will tell you if there is a problem with your hard drive or any other component.

How to Fix “No Boot Device Found Press Any Key to Reboot the Machine“ Error on Windows
Run diagnostic tests in BIOS on Windows laptop

If the diagnostic test indicates that your storage drive is not plugged in properly, check to see if its cable is properly connected. If the drive is plugged in properly, disconnect and reconnect it as this may fix the problem.

If you can't find the problem or if the problem occurs on a laptop where you can't quickly check for hard drive connection issues, have a technician check your device.

3. Change the boot sequence

The boot order refers to the order in which your computer searches for bootable data. If your computer has multiple storage devices installed, placing the drive where your operating system is installed first will help your computer access bootable data faster. Doing so may fix the "No boot device found" error.

Follow these steps to change the boot sequence:

1. Hold the power button for a few seconds to turn off the device.

2. Restart your computer by pressing the power button and continuing to press F2 until your BIOS settings appear.

3. Go to Boot Sequence from the left menu.

4. Select Legacy in the Boot List Option if it is not already selected. Changing the boot options will display the Boot Sequence settings .

How to Fix “No Boot Device Found Press Any Key to Reboot the Machine“ Error on Windows
Change boot mode in BIOS

5. In Boot Sequence , make sure the box next to the storage device you are using to boot the operating system, most likely an HDD or SSD, is checked.

6. Then, locate the storage device containing the operating system in the chain. If it is not at the top, select it and click the up arrow to move it to the top.

How to Fix “No Boot Device Found Press Any Key to Reboot the Machine“ Error on Windows
Set the operating system drive to the top in the BIOS Boot Sequence

7. To save the changes, click Apply.

8. Then click Exit and your computer will restart.

Hopefully, changing the boot order will fix the problem. But what should you do if your BIOS is missing Legacy Boot or the boot option is grayed out? You can easily fix the grayed out Legacy Boot option in Windows. However, if it doesn’t work, try the next fix.

4. Reset settings to default

If the Legacy Boot option is not available in your BIOS, you can restore the default settings by following these steps:

1. Hold the power button for a few seconds to turn off the device.

2. Restart your computer by pressing the power button and continuing to press F2 until your BIOS settings appear.

3. Select General on the left.

4. Then click Load Defaults .

How to Fix “No Boot Device Found Press Any Key to Reboot the Machine“ Error on Windows
Click Load Defaults to reset BIOS settings

5. Click OK in the warning pop-up window.

6. Click Exit .

Warning : Performing this step will restore BIOS settings to default, so you may lose any customizations you've made.

Leave a Comment

How to fix “Well Need Your Current Windows Password” error on Windows 10/11

How to fix “Well Need Your Current Windows Password” error on Windows 10/11

Are you getting the “We'll need your current Windows password one last time” error? This annoying pop-up can prevent you from getting things done.

How to fix Input Signal Out of Range error on Windows

How to fix Input Signal Out of Range error on Windows

When connecting an external monitor to your Windows PC, you may encounter an Input Signal Out of Range error. This error usually occurs if you have a high refresh rate monitor connected to a lower-end graphics device.

How to fix You dont have permission to save in this location error on Wiindows

How to fix You dont have permission to save in this location error on Wiindows

When Windows displays the error “You don't have permission to save in this location”, this will prevent you from saving files to the desired folders.

How to Fix Windows Error Code 0xc000000f

How to Fix Windows Error Code 0xc000000f

Error code 0xc000000f is a common error on Windows PCs. Often accompanied by messages like “Windows failed to start” or “Your PC needs to be repaired”, it is the dreaded blue screen of death (BSOD) error that no user wants to see.

How to Fix No Audio Output Device Is Installed Error on Windows

How to Fix No Audio Output Device Is Installed Error on Windows

Sometimes you may get the error message “No Audio Output Device Is Installed” when hovering over the sound icon. This error occurs when Windows does not detect your connected audio devices.

How to Fix Run as Administrator Not Working in Windows

How to Fix Run as Administrator Not Working in Windows

Windows provides a Run as Administrator option that allows users to run applications and programs with administrative privileges. You can also use it to troubleshoot your computer. But what if this feature malfunctions and strips you of your admin rights?

Restore Missing Sleep Option on Windows 11/10/8/7

Restore Missing Sleep Option on Windows 11/10/8/7

How to restore the Sleep option on the Power Menu, please refer to the article below of WebTech360.

8 Ways to Fix Windows PIN Not Working in Windows 10/11

8 Ways to Fix Windows PIN Not Working in Windows 10/11

You may encounter an issue where Windows tells you your PIN is incorrect even though you entered it correctly.

How to Fix No Speaker or Headphones are Plugged In Error on Windows

How to Fix No Speaker or Headphones are Plugged In Error on Windows

Here are some steps to help you fix the No Speaker or Headphones are Plugged In error on Windows.

How to fix black screen error when pressing Alt + Tab on Windows

How to fix black screen error when pressing Alt + Tab on Windows

Alt + Tab is a great shortcut for quickly switching between applications. While it works fine most of the time, it can sometimes result in a black screen.

How to fix the error of not being able to drag and drop in Windows

How to fix the error of not being able to drag and drop in Windows

You can always move files around by pressing Ctrl + X and Ctrl + V or browsing through folders when you want to attach a file to an email, but simple drag and drop is still more convenient.

Microsoft finally fixes the most annoying Windows bug of 2025

Microsoft finally fixes the most annoying Windows bug of 2025

While Microsoft usually fixes major issues fairly quickly, there's one particular bug that's been around since early 2025. Fortunately, it won't be around much longer.

How to Fix Continuous Enter Network Credentials Message on Windows

How to Fix Continuous Enter Network Credentials Message on Windows

A common issue is when Network Credential Manager continues to display the Enter Network Credentials dialog box, even when you enter the correct credentials.

7 Ways to Fix “No Battery Is Detected” Error on Windows

7 Ways to Fix “No Battery Is Detected” Error on Windows

One day, you are happily using your Windows device when suddenly you get the dreaded “No battery is detected” error. Usually, this error message is caused by a faulty battery or other system issues.

How to Use Windows 11 Quick Assist for Help

How to Use Windows 11 Quick Assist for Help

Discover how to use Windows 11 Quick Assist for seamless remote support. Learn step-by-step setup, troubleshooting, and tips to help friends or family with tech issues instantly.

Troubleshooting Windows 11 Dual Monitor Lag Fixes

Troubleshooting Windows 11 Dual Monitor Lag Fixes

Struggling with dual monitor lag on Windows 11? Discover proven troubleshooting fixes to eliminate stuttering, delays, and performance issues for seamless multi-monitor setups. Step-by-step guide inside.

How to Fix Windows 11 Startup Settings Blank Error

How to Fix Windows 11 Startup Settings Blank Error

Struggling with the frustrating Windows 11 "Startup Settings" blank error? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to restore your boot options quickly and get your PC running smoothly again. No tech expertise needed!

How to Activate Windows 11 Enterprise with KMS

How to Activate Windows 11 Enterprise with KMS

Discover how to activate Windows 11 Enterprise using KMS effortlessly. This comprehensive guide covers everything from requirements to troubleshooting, ensuring seamless activation for your business needs.

How to Fix Windows 11 Kmode Exception Not Handled

How to Fix Windows 11 Kmode Exception Not Handled

Struggling with the dreaded KMODE EXCEPTION NOT HANDLED error on Windows 11? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to resolve this blue screen nightmare quickly and get your PC running smoothly again. No tech expertise needed!

Troubleshooting Windows 11 Motherboard Driver Error Fix

Troubleshooting Windows 11 Motherboard Driver Error Fix

Struggling with Windows 11 "Motherboard" Driver Error? Discover proven troubleshooting steps to fix it fast and get your PC running smoothly again. Easy, step-by-step guide for beginners.

How to Fix Windows 11 Ping Spikes Over Wi-Fi Fixes

How to Fix Windows 11 Ping Spikes Over Wi-Fi Fixes

Struggling with ping spikes on Windows 11 over Wi-Fi? Discover proven fixes to stabilize your connection, reduce lag, and enjoy smooth gaming or streaming. Step-by-step solutions for instant results.

How to Recover Deleted Photos in Windows 11

How to Recover Deleted Photos in Windows 11

Accidentally deleted precious photos? Discover proven methods to recover deleted photos in Windows 11 effortlessly. Step-by-step guides, tools, and tips to restore your images safely.

How to Use Windows 11 Terminal Instead of CMD

How to Use Windows 11 Terminal Instead of CMD

Discover how to use Windows 11 Terminal instead of CMD for a modern, efficient command-line interface. Learn installation, setup, and tips to boost your productivity with tabs, themes, and more.

How to Activate Windows 11 Pro Without a Product Key

How to Activate Windows 11 Pro Without a Product Key

Discover safe, legitimate ways to activate Windows 11 Pro without a product key. Learn step-by-step methods using built-in tools and official Microsoft options to get your OS up and running smoothly. No risks, no hassle – just pure productivity.

Fixing Battery Drain During Hibernate in Windows 11

Fixing Battery Drain During Hibernate in Windows 11

Struggling with battery drain during hibernate in Windows 11? Discover expert fixes to preserve your laptop

How to Fix Windows 11 Input Lag for Valorant and CS2

How to Fix Windows 11 Input Lag for Valorant and CS2

Struggling with input lag in Windows 11 while playing Valorant or CS2? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to restore smooth gameplay and boost your performance. Say goodbye to delays and hello to precision shots.

How to Fix Out of Memory Error in Microsoft Edge

How to Fix Out of Memory Error in Microsoft Edge

Struggling with the frustrating "Out of Memory" error in Microsoft Edge? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to reclaim your browsing speed and stability. Updated with the latest tips for optimal performance.

How to Fix Windows 11 Google Drive Not Launching Fix

How to Fix Windows 11 Google Drive Not Launching Fix

Struggling with Google Drive not launching on Windows 11? Discover proven fixes to resolve the issue fast, from restarts to advanced troubleshooting. Get your cloud storage working seamlessly today!

How to Disable Gamebar Presence Writer for Performance

How to Disable Gamebar Presence Writer for Performance

Discover how to disable Game Bar Presence Writer on Windows to optimize gaming performance. Step-by-step guide to reduce lag, boost FPS, and enhance your setup for smoother gameplay. Essential tips for gamers in 2026.