Linux fails to start Windows after removing the EFI drive.
Linux fails to start Windows after removing the EFI drive.
Hey there! You lost your way with Linux again. After removing the partition, you got a grub error and then deleted the EFI drive, making Windows disappear. You tried installing Ubuntu to bring back EFI but still can’t get it working. You’re not alone—this sounds frustrating, especially since you’ve set up all your dependencies. Let’s figure this out together.
Removed the EFI drive containing the bootloader and likely many crucial details needed to start Windows.
I regretfully concur with NunoLava1998. When I was less familiar with computers, I followed the same steps. I probably spent around four hours searching for a method to save the Windows install. I couldn't find a viable solution. The only option was to reinstall Windows. It might work if you boot from a USB running Linux, allowing you to access saved files and transfer them elsewhere. I've used this approach to recover important data before wiping the drive and restarting after partition errors (which have happened more than once).
I've worked with EFI for personal projects and I understand what it does—it holds the bootloader and gathers information like BIOS time before Windows starts. You can also experiment with it in creative ways, such as creating a CD-ROM image.
Sorry buddy, things are really tough. You can't even attempt a fix because Windows spots the bootloader you removed. You're having to start over no matter what.
System partition remains intact. The installer will generate any missing partitions during repair mode if they are absent. During a test switch from UEFI to legacy mode, I kept only one partition and converted the drive from GPT to MBR. The Windows installer booted it up successfully without needing a full reinstall. Windows provides strong tools for fixing or self-repairing itself; recovering it completely is quite challenging.