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The operating system couldn't be loaded because a critical system driver is missing or contains errors.

A recently bought a SSD and windows 10 home OEM. I performed a custom install in this new SSD, the installation was successful but when the PC restarted a received the Recovery screen saying:

Recovery

Your PC/Device needs to be repaired

The operating system couldn't be loaded because a critical system driver is missing or contains errors.

File:\\Windows\System32\drivers\evbda.sys

Error code: 0xc0000221

You'll need to use recovery tools.If you don't have any installation media (like a disc or USB device), contact your PC administrator or PC/Device manufacturer.

If i try to repair from the CD it wont do anything, I have no Automatic Repair options as other post mention.

I built this PC about 1.5 years ago.

Mobo: Gygabyte GA-Z87X-D3H

Ram: 16 Corsair Vengance

GPU: GeForce GTX 660

SSD: Samsung EVO 850 250GB

CPU: Intel i5 3570K

Please help!

Thank you.

Hello,

Please refer following fix and see if it helps you:

http://www.kapilarya.com/fix-the-operating-system-couldnt-be-loaded-because-a-critical-system-driver-is-missing-or-contains-errors

Hope this helps, Good luck :)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Microsoft MVP (Windows IT Pro), since 2014 · Windows Insider MVP, since 2016 · Windows Help (www.kapilarya.com)

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I would start by making your system as barebones as possible.

Disconnect all internal storage devices except the target storage device where Windows 10 will be installed.

Reduce the amount of installed RAM to a single stick and try setup again.

How to: 10 Tips before installing Windows 10

How to: 10 things to do if Windows 10 Setup fails.

Best,
Andre
twitter/adacosta
groovypost.com

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Hello Andre,

I reduced the amount of RAM, (to a single stick of 8) and after that my system booted up, not sure if it was the amount of RAM i had or the stick was not working and it was causing the issue.

I'll install the stick again after I install updates in order to see the real problem.

Thank you very much for your help, i'll invite you a beer if you are in Ontario. :)

Ill update this post after my findings with the RAM.

EDIT:

I put my second stick back in (8 gb) and the PC started normally, I am guessing too much RAM affect the installation/setup of Windows10?

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um, thanks but i have never added any ram on my laptop

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Last updated April 7, 2025 Views 84,637 Applies to:
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