Error: File: \Windows\System32\winload.efi Error Code: 0xc0000098

My mini‑PC shut down unexpectedly due to a power outage at home. Since then, the device fails to boot, showing the error: File: \Windows\System32\winload.efi Error Code: 0xc0000098

The error indicates the operating system cannot load, as a required file is missing or corrupted.

This is likely caused by corrupted EFI boot files, which prevents the system from booting. You may attempt to repair the system boot using the built‑in Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). Detailed steps:

1. Enter the WinRE interface: Power on the unit, then cut power abruptly. Repeat this around three times. Power on again, and the system will automatically boot into WinRE.
2. Try the following options in sequence: Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Repair

If automatic Startup Repair does not resolve the issue, go to: Advanced options → Command Prompt

Verify that both the Windows system partition and EFI partition are detected properly, then rebuild boot files. Enter the commands below:

diskpart
list vol

Identify the drive letters for your Windows partition and EFI partition.

Next run:

chkdsk C: /f

After confirming there are no major file‑system errors on the Windows partition, execute the boot‑rebuild command using your actual drive letters:

bcdboot C:\Windows /s S: /f UEFI

Note: C: and S: must be replaced with the real drive letters obtained from diskpart → list vol. Do not copy these letters directly.

If none of the above works, it is recommended to boot into Safe Mode desktop via WinRE, back‑up your personal data, and then reinstall Windows.