0x0000007B_
Inaccessible Boot Device
Windows 10/11 just hit error 0x0000007B, which corresponds to a fault called "Inaccessible Boot Device". This is one of the most searched error codes for this OS — you're not alone, and there's a clear fix.
What Actually Happened
Windows kernel halted due to: Windows lost access to the system partition during startup.
Symptoms
Blue screen appears with stop code INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE
Common Causes
- Kernel condition: Windows lost access to the system partition during startup
- Outdated or conflicting third-party driver
- Overheating or failing hardware (RAM/SSD)
How to Fix It
-
01
Boot into Safe Mode and roll back recently installed drivers
-
02
Run memory diagnostic:
mdsched.exe -
03
Run system scan:
sfc /scannow && DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
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Root Cause Breakdown
Stop code INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE (0x0000007B) triggered a bugcheck to protect memory integrity.
Should You Worry?
Urgent. Save work frequently to avoid data loss.
Power-User Tip
Check minidump logs in C:\Windows\Minidump to identify the failing .sys file.
Software fix: $0; Hardware replacement: $50�$250