No Bootable Device on Surface Go? How to Fix it in Minutes

The dreaded “No bootable device” error on your Surface Go can be incredibly frustrating. It leaves you stranded, unable to access your files or use your device. But don’t despair! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the troubleshooting steps to fix this error and get your Surface Go back up and running.

Understanding the “No Bootable Device” Error

This error message signifies that your Surface Go can’t find a valid operating system to boot from. This could be due to various reasons, including:

• Corrupted Boot Files: The files responsible for loading the operating system might be damaged.
• Hard Drive Failure: Your Surface Go’s internal storage might be faulty or failing.
• Incorrect Boot Order: The BIOS settings might be configured to prioritize booting from a different device instead of your hard drive.
• External Device Interference: A connected USB drive or other external device might be interfering with the boot process.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide: How to Fix No Bootable Device on Surface Go

Let’s dive into the practical steps to resolve the “No Bootable Device” error on your Surface Go.

1. Check for External Devices

The first step is to eliminate any potential interference from external devices. Disconnect all USB drives, external hard drives, SD cards, and any other peripherals connected to your Surface Go. This ensures that the boot process isn’t being interrupted by an external device.

2. Restart Your Surface Go

A simple restart can sometimes resolve temporary glitches that might be causing the error. Press and hold the power button until the shutdown options appear, then select “Shut down.” Once shut down, press the power button again to restart your Surface Go.

3. Access the BIOS Settings

If restarting doesn‘t solve the problem, you need to access the BIOS settings to check the boot order and troubleshoot further. To access the BIOS:
1. Power off your Surface Go.
2. Press and hold the volume up button while simultaneously pressing the power button.
3. Continue holding both buttons until the Surface logo appears.
4. Release the buttons, and you should be in the BIOS setup menu.

4. Check the Boot Order

In the BIOS settings, navigate to the “Boot” or “Boot Order” section. Ensure that your Surface Go’s internal hard drive is listed as the first boot device. If it isn’t, use the arrow keys to change the order and prioritize the hard drive. Save the changes and exit the BIOS.

5. Run the Surface Diagnostic Tool

Microsoft provides a built-in diagnostic tool that can help identify and fix various hardware issues, including potential problems with your hard drive. To run the tool:
1. Go to the “Start” menu and search for “Surface Diagnostic Toolkit.”
2. Run the tool and follow the on-screen instructions.

6. Perform a System Restore

If the previous steps haven‘t resolved the issue, a system restore might help. System restore allows you to revert your Surface Go to a previous working state, potentially fixing the problem.
1. Go to the “Start” menu and search for “System Restore.”
2. Select “Create a restore point.”
3. Choose a restore point from before the issue began and follow the prompts.

7. Reinstall Windows

If all else fails, reinstalling Windows might be necessary. This will erase all data on your Surface Go, so ensure you have a backup of your important files before proceeding. To reinstall Windows:
1. Download the latest Windows 10 ISO file from Microsoft’s website.
2. Create a bootable USB drive using the ISO file.
3. Boot your Surface Go from the USB drive.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows.

Preventing Future “No Bootable Device” Errors

Here are some tips to prevent the “No Bootable Device” error from recurring:

• Keep Your Surface Go Updated: Regularly update your Surface Go with the latest Windows updates to address potential bugs and vulnerabilities.
• Avoid Unnecessary External Devices: Limit the use of external devices connected to your Surface Go, especially during the boot process.
• Back Up Your Data: Regularly back up your important files to an external drive or cloud storage to prevent data loss.

Time to Get Your Surface Go Back in Action!

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the “No Bootable Device” error on your Surface Go and get back to using your device. Remember to be patient and methodical, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure about any of the steps.

What People Want to Know

1. What if I don’t have a USB drive to create a bootable drive?

You can create a bootable USB drive using another computer. If you don’t have access to another computer, you can contact Microsoft support for assistance.

2. Will reinstalling Windows erase all my data?

Yes, reinstalling Windows will erase all data on your Surface Go. Ensure you have a backup of your important files before proceeding with a reinstall.

3. How can I make sure my Surface Go’s hard drive is healthy?

You can use the Surface Diagnostic Tool to check the health of your hard drive. If you suspect a hardware failure, contact Microsoft support for further assistance.

4. What if I’m still getting the “No Bootable Device” error after trying all these steps?

If you’ve tried all the steps and are still encountering the error, it’s likely a hardware issue. Contact Microsoft support for further assistance or consider taking your Surface Go to a certified repair center.