Invalid partition table.
Cause:
The MBR (Master Boot Record) has an invalid partition boot entry so the operating system can not be launched. This issue occurs prior to the start of any Windows code.
It can be caused by a power-failure while the disk is in the middle of writing, a virus damaged the entry or a serious software bug damaged the partition entry (although Windows typically protects against this). This issue cannot be easily caused by any action you performed, unless you turned off the power without going through Windows shutdown.
Although not stated in the message, press Ctrl-Alt-Del to reboot.
Workaround:
1. If you are booting from either a DVD, CD, diskette or a USB drive, remove the media and boot from the hard disk. The media is either damaged or is not intended to be bootable.
2. Check with the PC manufacturer if you're using the latest BIOS or not. If not, update to the current version.
3. If the BIOS is current, it's possible bad BIOS parameters are causing the problem, especially if the memory or CPU settings are overclocked. The BIOS parameters are stored in CMOS memory. The best way to reset the BIOS parameters is to remove the CMOS battery. To do this:
Some BIOSes have options to enable/disable caching and/or shadowing. If the options are available, disable caching and shadowing. Most newer (2005+) systems do not have these options. There are many BIOS makers and customized versions of the BIOS, so you may have to enter BIOS setup and look a bit to find these options. Typically you press a key like Esc, Del, F1, or F2 before Windows starts (almost right after you reboot) to enter BIOS setup. Refer your computer manual for details.
4. Replace MBR and Fix Partition Table
You can also replace the MBR from the command prompt. You will need to boot from the windows CD/DVD and goto the Recovery console.
Repair the Boot Process
Typically this is used if Windows doesn't start and you can't get to the safe mode menu. You might also replace the Master Boot Record (MBR) and boot sector if you suspect a virus infection. There are four options:
New MBR - Insert a new generic MBR without changing the partition table.
At the prompt, type: bootrec /FixMbr
New Boot Sector - Insert a new Windows 7/Vista compatible boot sector. It will automatically insert the right type of sector for the file system type (NTFS, FAT32, etc.)
At the prompt, type: bootrec /FixBoot
Rebuild BCD - Rebuild the Boot Configuration Data (BCD). The BCD controls which partition boots. This option will let you select which installations to include in the BCD.
At the prompt, type: bootrec /RebuildBcd
Find OSes - Scan the system for all OS installations that are compatible with Vista/2008 and will also show those that are currently included in the BCD.
At the prompt, type: bootrec /ScanOs
5.Once working, be sure to do an extensive scan for viruses and malware.
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Windows XP:
Typically this is used if Windows doesn't start at all and you can't get to the safe mode menu. You might also replace the Master Boot Record (MBR) and/or the boot sector if you suspect a virus infection.
New MBR - Insert a new generic MBR without changing the partition table.
- At the prompt, type: fixmbr
New Boot Sector - Insert a new Windows compatible boot sector.
- At the prompt, type: fixboot
- It will confirm the target partition is C (for at least 99.99% of installations). Type Y
Vista/ Windows 7
Description of the Windows XP Recovery Console.
How to use the Command Prompt from Windows Vista Recovery Environment?
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