Windows 7 Does Not Boot After GParted Resize

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Do not attempt to use GParted to Shrink a Windows 7 Partition.

A bug in the GParted Live CD impacted how it updated the Windows boot sector if the start of the Windows partition is moved. This is one culprit but not the exclusive problem with resizing an active Windows 7 partition. In this case GParted may move the start point of the Windows boot sector at sector number 2048 instead of moving it to sector number 63.

Another source indicates that Windows 7 is designed to purposely store important boot data at the tail end of the partition. Even a very small change in the size of the partition by moving the end of the partition inward can destroy this boot data. Some recommend that you defrag your windows drive before shrinking. Even doing so the chances of a problem are significant.


Windows failed to start. A recent hardware or software change might be the cause.  To fix the problem:

1. Insert your Windows installation disc and restart your computer.
2. Choose your language settings, and then click "Next."
3. Click "Repair your computer."

If you do not have this disc, contact your system administrator or computer manufacturer for assistance.

Status: 0xc0000225

Info: The boot selection failed because a required device is inaccessible.

Correct the problem using the Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE) by booting from your Windows 7 installation media.

The repair option identified the boot sector issue and correct it by deleting the invalid location replacing it with a valid MBR.

After reboot Windows 7 automatically performs a chkdsk repair.

Problem Resolved: Use the Windows 7 Recovery Disc.

Shrink or Resize the Windows 7 Partition

The safest and simplest way to partition your drive is to use the Windows 7 "Disk Management" program, to shrink your existing windows partition. To access this program, click the Windows icon in the bottom left and in the text box which says "Search programs and files," type in "Disk Management" in this box, and press enter.

Windows 7 puts two partitions on your hard drive: one, about 100 MB in size, holding system restoration data and the primary windows installation partition.

How to Dual-boot Linux and Windows (on a PC with Windows 7 already installed)

Choose a Linux distribution. For example, Ubuntu. Boot the PC from the Linux installation media, such as a DVD or USB Flash Drive.

Be sure that when it asks you where you want to install Ubuntu, you select the option to install side-by-side with your other OS, using the free space available. When it's down, shutdown your computer and remove the installation media. When you boot back up, you should have a choice between Ubuntu Linux or Windows.

During installation of Linux we will not be creating a separate swap partition.


References