For EFI-based computer systems, the boot loader is IA64ldr and performs the same functions as NTLDR does in x86 or x64 systems. Each operating system on such systems maintains its individual copy of boot loader on EFI partition. Windows component- Ia64ldr.efi loads Hal.dll, system boot drivers, Ntoskrn.exe files to successfully start the boot the process. But, if the file gets corrupted or goes missing somehow, a Windows-based computer loses the ability to boot, while rendering your stored files and folders inaccessible. You can deduce such issues from error messages that display when you try to start the computer. However, to solve these problems, you should try replacing the damaged or missing boot loader file using boot disc. If this fails, use your backup to restore data or opt for a powerful hard drive recovery utility.

For example, you might receive the below error message when trying to start a EFI-based computer systems installed with Windows operating system:

“Couldn’t find loader.

Please insert another disk.”

Such errors imply that your stored files and folders are inaccessible and you cannot boot into the computer.

Cause

Ia64ldr.efi file is either missing or damaged. This file is typically located at \Device\HarddiskVolume1
\EFI\Microsoft\WINNT50\ .

The error might also occur if computer is trying to boot from a non-bootable media.

Solution

Make sure that no external media is inserted when you are trying to start the system. To boot the computer and resolve the issue, you should follow these steps:

  • Insert the Windows installation or boot disc and boot your computer from it. To accomplish it, you need to edit the BIOS settings to boot from CD-ROM and restart the computer.
  • Press any key when prompted for
  • Replace the corrupted or missing boot loader and NTDETECT.COM file

    • If this works, you will be enable to access data. But if it fails, you are suggested to restore data from backup or employ a hard drive recovery software that could access and recover those lost files.

    Hard drive recovery utilities are high-end applications, specially designed to scan and recover data while maintaining its integrity. They can be easily implemented because of graphically rich user interface.

    Stellar Phoenix Windows Data Recovery is a professional and completely reliable data recovery tool with advanced options and features. It is a safe hard drive recovery softwarethat supports Windows 7 RC1, Vista, XP, 2003 and 2000 based systems. The tool provides you features like Append Header, RAW File Recovery, Save Scan and more.