What is a NTLDR Error?

NTLDR is short for NT Loader which is a program loaded from the hard drive boot sector that helps the program load and displays the startup menu. NTLDR errors apply only to the Windows XP operating systems. Windows 7 and Vista do not utilize NTLDR.

The error will generally appear reading either “NTLDR is missing. Press any key to restart” or “NTLDR is missing. Press Ctrl Alt Del to restart”, or “Boot: Couldn’t find NTLDR. Please insert another disk”. The error usually appears after the computer is started and begins to load. The error occurs for one of the following reasons:

• The computer is trying to book from a hard or flash drive that it is not supposed to be booting from.
• The boot files or hard drive files are corrupt or not configured properly.
• There was an issue with an upgrade of the operation system.
• The BIOS is outdated.
• The IDE cables are damaged or loose.

Take the following steps in order to attempt to repair the NTLDR error.

• The first thing to do if you get an NTLDR error message is to shut down and restart your system. Sometimes the error is a fluke and restarting could be the only fix you need.
• Check all of your power cables. Ensure that they are tightly plugged in and in good working order.
• Back up all of your data and uninstall and reinstall a new installation of Windows XP. Removing Windows XP from your PC and installing it again from the beginning will be a sure fix that any issues with NTLDR will go away unless you have a hard drive issues or an outdated BIOS.

If you are uncomfortable or unfamiliar performing any of these options you should seek the expertise of a trained computer repair technician who can assist you with this process. If you continue to receive NTLDR errors after taking the steps above it may mean that your hard drive is corrupt and will need to be replaced.