Firmware · critical

How to fixUEFI-SHELL-FALLBACK

Drop into the built-in EFI Shell

What this error means

Drop into the built-in EFI Shell is a critical-severity firmware issue. It started the EFI command interface instead of the operating system. It's most often caused by deleted EFI partition and disk not found by BIOS. Work through the steps below in order.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Type 'exit' to return to BIOS

Type 'exit' to return to BIOS.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Check the connection of the disk

Check the connection of the disk.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Recreate the EFI partition in Windows PE

Recreate the EFI partition in Windows PE.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • Deleted EFI partition
  • Disk not found by BIOS