Alternatively called a startup disk, system disk, master disk, or boot disk, a bootable disk contains special files required for the computer to boot into an operating system. If the bootable disk is removable media (e.g., floppy diskette or CD-ROM), it bypasses the hard drive, depending on the settings in the BIOS. This diskette is often used to troubleshoot the computer or allow the user to copy files when a computer is down.

What is a “no bootable disk” error?

If the computer has no bootable media, or is trying to boot from media which doesn’t contain a functioning boot record, the error No bootable disk or No bootable device is displayed. For information about non-booting computers or disks, see our bootable device guide.

A “bootable disk” refers to a floppy diskette. If you’re referring to a CD or DVD, it may be called a “boot disc” or “restore disc.”

Because “master” in this context is offensive, it’s better to refer to this disk as one of the alternative terms.

Boot device, Boot sequence, Floppy drive terms, Hardware terms, Rufus

  • How to make a bootable CD.
  • Creating a bootable diskette.
  • How to create a bootable Windows USB drive.
  • How to erase my hard drive and start over?
  • Floppy drive help and support.