How to Fix a Partition Table for Free

Your partition table is a vital part of the hard drive logical structure. The partition table segments the hard drive into sections, and it creates the format so the Windows operating system can use the storage device. If the partition table information corrupts, the computer does not boot and sends an error when you start your computer. The Windows operating system installation CD has a recovery console to help repair the boot files and repair the table.

Instructions

1

Insert the Windows installation CD into your drive and reboot the machine. The computer detects the bootable disk and brings you to the Windows installation start screen. However, you don't need to install Windows. An option is displayed for recovery and repair.

2

Select a time zone, language and currency using the arrow keys on your keyboard. In the next screen, select "Repair your computer" and press "Enter."

3

Select the operating system you want to repair. For most users, only one operating system is shown. Select your Windows version and press "Enter."

4

Select "Command Prompt" on the list of recovery console options. This brings you to a command prompt where you enter the statements to repair your disk.

5

Type "bootrec.exe /fixboot" and press "Enter." This repairs the partition and boot records. Remove the installation CD and reboot the machine.