Navigation section

Fixing 'Could Not Locate efi\boot\bootx64.efi' Error in Windows Installations

  • Thread Author
Ah, the infamous "Could not locate efi\boot\bootx64.efi" error. If you've attempted to install Windows 10 or Windows 11 recently and been greeted with this error, you’re not alone. It can be one of the most frustrating obstacles between you and a fresh Windows installation. This problem is a stark reminder that, even in 2025, technology loves to keep us on our toes.
Let’s dive into why this error occurs, explore expert-recommended solutions, and provide extra clarity to help you troubleshoot this like an IT wizard.

What Does the Error Mean?​

This error message pops up when your system fails to locate the bootx64.efi file during the boot process. The file lives in the efi\boot directory of your bootable media and is critical for initializing the installation process.
Broadly speaking, here’s why this might happen:
  • Architecture Mismatch: You’re trying to install a 32-bit Windows OS onto a 64-bit system or vice-versa. However, this doesn’t apply to Windows 11 since it's exclusively 64-bit.
  • Corrupted Installation Media: The bootable USB or disk you're using might be missing, incomplete, or damaged.
  • BIOS/UEFI Misconfiguration: Your boot order or firmware settings don’t point to the correct location of your boot files.
  • Hardware Issues: Problems with your hard drive or storage system could also cause this error.
Now that we know the causes, let’s gear up for some troubleshooting.

How to Fix 'Could Not Locate efi\boot\bootx64.efi'​

Here’s a list of solutions to resolve this problem. You won’t need any crazy hardware setups or IT certifications—just some patience and careful execution.

1. Repair Windows With Installation Media​

If you're already stuck in this error loop, you can’t access your regular desktop environment to fix things. But all hope is not lost! Here's how to repair Windows using installation media:
  • Step 1: Grab another working computer and download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft's official website.
  • Step 2: Plug in a USB drive (at least 8GB) and use the tool to create bootable media for Windows 10 or 11.
  • Step 3: Plug the USB into your affected computer and boot from it.
  • Step 4: Choose the “Repair Your Computer” option when the Windows Setup screen appears.
  • Step 5: Follow the on-screen instructions to repair boot files and resolve the error.
Pro Tip: If this doesn't solve the error, consider reformatting the USB drive and re-downloading the ISO file before retrying.
Click to expand...

2. Verify Your Processor’s Architecture​

This is especially important if you're trying to install an older version of Windows. A mismatch between your system's CPU architecture and the Windows version you're installing will end in heartbreak.

How to Check Your Processor’s Architecture:​

  • Boot into your BIOS or use an alternative system if BIOS is too cryptic.
  • For functional systems, navigate to Settings > System > About.
  • Under Device Specifications, look for:
  • x64-based processor: Meaning it's 64-bit capable.
  • x86-based processor: Sorry folks, this means your hardware is limited to 32-bit.

What to Do:​

  • Download the correct version of Windows (x64 for 64-bit systems, x86 for 32-bit systems).
  • Prepare a new installation media accordingly using tools like Rufus or Media Creation Tool.

3. Check and Correct Boot Order​

Here’s where things get interesting. Your computer might be looking for the boot file in the wrong place—or not looking at all (how rude!). Fixing your boot order can work wonders:

Steps to Adjust Boot Order:​

  • Enter BIOS/UEFI:
  • Different manufacturers use different keys such as F2, Del, or Esc when you boot your PC. Check your computer's manual.
  • Find Boot Priority/Boot Order Settings:
  • Set the bootable USB drive as the first priority.
  • Save and Exit:
  • Press the appropriate key (usually F10) to save your changes.
Afterwards, reboot your PC and watch the magic unfold.

4. Reset BIOS Settings and Recreate Installation Media​

If you've tinkered with BIOS settings before and things are still broken, it's time to hit the good ol' reset button.

How to Reset BIOS:​

  • Enter BIOS (as detailed earlier).
  • Look for an option like "Restore Defaults" or "Reset" under advanced settings.
  • Save the changes and restart.
While you're in the cleanup spirit, recreate the installation media from scratch. Here's the kicker: Use a reliable tool like Rufus if Media Creation Tool didn’t work for you. Ensure you match the correct:
  • Partition Scheme: GPT for UEFI-based systems or MBR for BIOS-based systems.
  • File System: Use FAT32 for broader compatibility.

5. Rule Out Hardware Problems​

When all else fails, your hardware might be the culprit.

Hard Drive Diagnostic Steps:​

  • Use a hard disk case to connect your internal drive externally to another computer.
  • If the drive isn't detected or shows errors, you might need to replace it.
  • Alternatively, use tools like CrystalDiskInfo or CHKDSK on another system to scan for bad sectors or remaining life.

FAQs on EFI Boot Errors​

Here are answers to some common questions to round out your troubleshooting toolkit.

How Do I Fix an EFI Problem?​

The EFI bootloader can be repaired by entering Command Prompt via installation media:
  • Access repair options > Advanced Options > Command Prompt.
  • Run:
    Code: 
       ren BCD BCD.bak

   bootrec /rebuildbcd
  • Restart your PC.
This rebuilds the Boot Configuration Data file, often resolving the issue.

Can I Delete Boot EFI?​

The short answer? Don’t even think about it.
The EFI partition contains essential files for booting Windows. Deleting it will leave your system unbootable, and you’ll need to rebuild it from scratch—a painstaking process.

Final Thoughts​

The "Could not locate efi\boot\bootx64.efi" error prompts you to think critically about BIOS, installation media, and system architecture. It’s not the end of the world, but it does require some thoroughness to diagnose and correct. With digital life becoming increasingly reliant on smooth installations, mastering these fixes could save you from countless headaches in the future.
Next time Windows decides to challenge you with an error like this one, you’ll be ready—and dare I say it—excited to troubleshoot. After all, every solved issue brings us closer to a deeper understanding of our systems.
Feel free to share your experience or additional tips in the comments!
Source: The Windows Club https://www.thewindowsclub.com/could-not-locate-efibootbootx64-efi-fix
 


Click to expand...
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top