Windows 2000 boot failure (“NTLDR is missing”): The server uses separate NTFS system and boot partitions. You need to restore NTLDR without losing configuration changes since installation. What is the correct procedure?

Introduction / Context:
“NTLDR is missing” indicates that the boot loader cannot be found or accessed on the system volume. On Windows 2000, repairing the boot loader via the Recovery Console allows you to restore NTLDR without overwriting applications or system configuration, preserving your post-install changes.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• System and boot partitions are NTFS and separate.
• Only NTLDR is missing or damaged; the OS files and configuration should remain intact.
• Admin wants to avoid a full reinstall.

Concept / Approach:
Use the Windows 2000 Server CD to access the Repair options and launch Recovery Console. From there, copy the NTLDR file (and if necessary, NTDETECT.COM) from the CD to the root of the active system partition. This surgical repair restores the boot loader while keeping registry, drivers, and installed apps untouched.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Boot from the Windows 2000 Server CD and select Repair → Recovery Console.Log on to the Windows installation with Administrator credentials.Copy NTLDR from the CD's i386 folder to the root of the system partition (often C:\).If needed, also copy NTDETECT.COM and verify BOOT.INI entries.

Verification / Alternative check:
After copying, remove the CD and reboot. The system should proceed to the Windows boot menu or load normally. Check the Event Log for disk or file system errors that may have caused the initial corruption.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Full reinstall: Overkill and risks overwriting configuration.

sfc /scanboot: System File Checker does not run at pre-boot to restore NTLDR in this scenario.

File Signature Verification: Diagnostics only, not a boot loader repair method.

None of the above: Incorrect because Recovery Console copy is the appropriate fix.

Common Pitfalls:
Copying to the wrong partition, ignoring BOOT.INI errors, or failing to verify disk health after restoring NTLDR.

Final Answer:
Boot from the Windows 2000 Server CD, choose Repair, open Recovery Console, and copy NTLDR from the CD to the root of the system volume