The good news is that your data isn’t lost, and you can get it all back (we’ll show you how). The bad news is that you’ll have to do a little work to restore that missing file. Here’s how to fix a ‘configuration data file’ boot error in Windows 1o: First, you’ll need a DVD or USB stick containing Windows installation media. You can download a utility from Microsoft here (opens in new tab) that will create that for you. Next, follow these steps:

  1. Insert your installation media into the computer.
  2. Boot to the media. We had to press F12 during bootup on the Dell we fixed up to reach this menu, though these keys can differ depending on your laptop’s make and model.
  3. Click Next on the Windows Setup menu.
  4. Click “Repair your computer.”
  5. Choose Troubleshoot.
  6. Select “Advanced options.”
  7. Pick “Command Prompt.”
  8. Type Bootrec /fixmbr and press the enter key. 9. Type Bootrec /fixboot and press the enter key. 10. Type Bootrec /scanos and press the enter key. 11. Type Bootrec /rebuildbcd and press the enter key.
  9. Type “A” to add the installation to the boot list and hit enter. 13. Exit the command prompt with the X button on the top of the window.
  10. Click “Continue” to go to your desktop.

Windows 10 Annoyances and Problems

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Repair Windows 10Remove the Lock ScreenDisable or Enable Grayscale ModeSet Compatibility Mode for AppsAccess the BIOS on a Windows 10 PCStop Windows Update from Automatically Restarting Your PCTurn Off App NotificationsFix a Slow-Opening Windows Downloads FolderDisable Personalized Ads on Microsoft Sites and AppsStop Skype’s Annoying Auto UpdatesFix a ‘Boot Configuration Data File is Missing’ ErrorClear the Run Command’s HistoryDisable CortanaUninstall and Restore Built-in AppsRestore a Missing Battery IconFix a Boot Configuration File ErrorGet to the Advanced Startup Options MenuDelete a Locked FileRestart without RebootingRoll Back Windows 10 to an Earlier VersionDisable Automatic Driver DownloadsDisable Internet ExplorerPause Windows Updates for Up to 35 DaysUse Battery SaverDowngrade to Windows 10 SSave Netflix Videos for Offline ViewingAll Windows 10 TipsWorst Windows 10 AnnoyancesDisable Password Prompt on Wake