Bootmgr Compression Error? Here's How to Fix It!

Bootmgr is compressed error is one of the most common errors that Windows users encounter. This error usually occurs during the boot process and prevents the operating system from starting up properly. There are various reasons why this error occurs, but the most common one is when the boot manager file (bootmgr) gets compressed. In this article, we will discuss in detail what causes this error and how to fix it using different methods.

Part 1. Overview about Bootmgr is Compressed

1. What is the Bootmgr is Compressed Press Ctrl Alt Del to Restart Error?

The "Bootmgr is Compressed Press Ctrl Alt Del to Restart" error is a common issue encountered by Windows users when their computer is unable to boot due to the compression of the BOOTMGR file. The compressed file cannot be loaded by the computer's boot loader, resulting in the error message prompting the user to press CTRL+ALT+DEL to restart the system. This error can occur on any version of Windows, including Windows 7 and 10.

2. What Is BOOTMGR?

BOOTMGR (Boot Manager) is a small piece of software loaded from the volume boot record. It is essential for initiating the Windows boot process and loading the operating system.

3. What are the symptoms of a Bootmgr error?

A Bootmgr error typically presents itself as a black screen with an error message stating that "BOOTMGR is compressed. Press Ctrl+Alt+Del to restart." This error prevents the computer from starting up correctly.

In addition to the common "BOOTMGR is compressed" error message, this issue may also appear as a different filename due to a bug in Microsoft's filesystem compression code. Some known variants include "QXHDK is compressed," "PJBIH is compressed," "DFJEU is compressed," "VUFEI is compressed," and "DGKAR is compressed." In each case, the error message prompts the user to press CTRL+ALT+DEL to restart the computer, but the underlying issue remains the same.

4. Why is there a Bootmgr error on my Windows 7/10?

Some common causes of Bootmgr errors include accidental compression of the BOOTMGR file, hardware issues, incorrect BIOS settings, hard drive corruption, and malware infection.

Part 2. How to fix Bootmgr is compressed with USB?

The following methods requires using USB, they especially suit for people who are looking for solutions about bootmgr is compressed fix without cd.

1. Smart Repair with Use PassFab FixUWinHot

PassFab FixUWin is a comprehensive and user-friendly tool that offers a one-click automated system repair to fix issues caused by compressed BOOTMGR bootloader files.

It is designed to recreate the files from scratch on the active bootable partition, and this process is done automatically as part of the repair process. PassFab FixUWin is guaranteed to fix the "Bootmgr is compressed" error using its built-in Automated Repair option, making it a top choice for users who need a reliable and efficient solution to fix their PC problems.

2. Built-in Startup Repair

Startup Repair is a built-in Windows tool designed to automatically diagnose and repair various startup issues, including the "Bootmgr is compressed" error. It works by scanning your system and fixing any issues found during the boot process. This method is best suited for users who prefer not to use additional software or who have limited technical knowledge.

To use Startup Repair to fix the "Bootmgr is compressed" issue, follow these six steps:

Step 1. Restart your computer and press the appropriate key (F2, F12, or Del) to enter the BIOS/Boot menu.

Step 2. Change the boot order to boot from your Windows installation media (DVD or USB), save the changes, and exit.

Step 3. When "Windows Setup" option shows, click "Next" buttom and choose "Repair your computer" to go on.

Step 4. Click on "Troubleshoot" from the menu, and then you will see the interface with "Advanced options" option, choose "Advanced options"> "Startup repair"

The tool will automatically scan your system and attempt to fix any startup issues. You may be able to resolve the "Bootmgr is compressed" issue by restarting your computer and checking if the problem still persists.

Note: Startup Repair may not always fix the issue, especially if the root cause is more complex or deeply ingrained in the system.

Part 3. How to fix Bootmgr is compressed using Command Prompt?

1. Manual BOOTMGR Update

This method involves decompressing the BOOTMGR file manually by executing a command in the Command Prompt. It works by explicitly targeting the compressed BOOTMGR file, ensuring that only the required file is decompressed. This method is best suited for users with a certain level of technical knowledge, as it requires navigating the Command Prompt.

Follow these steps to decompress BOOTMGR manually:

Step 1. Boot your computer from the Windows installation USB.

Step 2. Choose "Repair your computer"option, click "Command Prompt" when System Recovery Options window shows.

Step 3. Type "bcdboot C:\Windows /s D:" and press Enter. (Replace "C" with the drive letter where Windows is installed, and "D" with the active boot partition letter)

Step 4. Wait for the command to complete.

Step 5. Restart your PC and see if this problem is resolved.

2. BCD File Rebuilding

Rebuilding the BCD (Boot Configuration Data) file is a targeted approach that addresses any corruption or issues specifically with the BCD file. This method is effective in resolving the "Bootmgr is compressed" error if the root cause is a problematic BCD file.

Step 1. Open the Command Prompt by typing its name.

Step 2. Type "bootrec /rebuildbcd" and press Enter.

Step 3. Follow the instructions showing on screen and reboot your computer when prompted.

3. Drive Decompression

This method involves uncompressing the entire drive containing the BOOTMGR file, ensuring that any compressed system files on the drive are decompressed. While this method may resolve the "Bootmgr is compressed" error, it may also affect other compressed files on the drive, potentially leading to more free space being used on your Windows 7/10.

Follow these steps to uncompress the drive containing BOOTMGR:

Step 1. Reboot your Windows from the installation drive, then access the Command Prompt.

Step 2. Type in the command for the Safe Mode you want and press Enter.

• To enter Safe Mode with minimal drivers and services, use the command "bcdedit /set {default} safeboot minimal."
• To enter Safe Mode with networking support, use the command "bcdedit /set {default} safeboot network."
• To enter Safe Mode with a command prompt, use the command "bcdedit /set {default} safebootalternateshell yes."

Step 3. Go to Windows Explorer and right-click on the system drive, like C, and choose Properties.

Step 4. Then uncheck "Compress this drive to save disk space."option under General tab.

Step 5. Save the change by clicking on OK and Apply.

Note: In Windows 7, you can enter Safe Mode by pressing F8 during the startup process. In Windows 10/8, you can enter Safe Mode through WinRE and the Advanced options menu.

To help you better understand each solution, the following list a comparison table of each solutions.

Method	Pros	Cons	Rating
SMart epair with PassFab FixUWin	User-friendly, comprehensive, supports all OS	Requires a working computer for installation	4.8/5
Built-in Startup Repair	Built-in tool, no additional software needed	May not always fix the issue	4/5
Manual BOOTMGR Update	More control over the process, targets compressed BOOTMGR	Technical knowledge required	3/5
BCD File Rebuilding	Targets specific issue (corrupted BCD), resolves persistent errors	Technical knowledge required	3/5
Drive Decompression	Addresses multiple compressed system files	Technical knowledge required, increased disk space usage	3/5

Part 4. FAQs about Bootmgr is Compressed

1. How to install Bootmgr without a CD?

You can install Bootmgr without a CD by creating a bootable USB drive with Windows installation files. You'll need a working computer to download the installation files and a USB flash drive.

2. How do I restore Bootmgr files?

To restore Bootmgr files, you can use the built-in Startup Repair tool or the Command Prompt method. These methods will repair or replace the corrupted Bootmgr files, allowing your computer to boot properly.

3. Can a malware infection cause the Bootmgr is compressed error?

Yes, malware can potentially compress or corrupt system files, including Bootmgr. It is important to keep your antivirus software updated and perform regular scans to prevent malware infections.

4. Is it safe to compress system files to save space on my hard drive?

Compressing system files may save space, but it can lead to performance issues and errors like "Bootmgr is compressed." It's better to avoid compressing essential system files to ensure the smooth operation of your computer.

Conclusion

In summary, this article discusses various solutions to fix the "Bootmgr is compressed" issue in Windows systems. We covered PassFab FixUWin, Built-in Startup Repair, Manual BOOTMGR Update, BCD File Rebuilding, and Drive Decompression. We recommend PassFab FixUWin for its user-friendly interface, comprehensive features, and support for all Windows operating systems, making it an efficient and reliable choice for resolving this problem on your Windows 7/10.

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