This tutorial will teach the reader how to restore the original Windows boot loader in the Master Boot Record (MBR). This is typically desired after a successful dual boot of a Linux distribution and Windows on a single hard drive has replaced the Windows boot loader with GRUB. For some running cheap dedicated servers, this can save a lot of time and hassle, and offers some much needed utility to the machine.
GRUB is perfectly fine, except Windows boot loader will always be recommended. GRUB can be prone to errors with some anti-virus programs that insist on including small and otherwise harmless files into the Master Boot Record. These files ultimately alter and harm the GRUB loader.
Another note of precaution before we go through the process of restoring the Windows boot loader in MBR. At times, the Linux boot loader is more optimal for this situation, but not installed in the Master Boot Record, but instead in the Linux installation boot partition. In the event that the /boot is not a separate partition, the Linux boot loader can be installed in the main partition. This process allows the Windows boot manager the main responsibility of booting applications during a restart. Additionally, reinstalling Windows will not cause a loss of access to the Linux side of the dual boot.
Now that we understand the benefits of restoring the Windows boot loader, let's get this started! The first step is to download the essential tool that will make this nice and easy: EasyBCD. Go to their main website and click on the "Download free for limited, non-commercial use" link. Following the basic installation instructions and load it up.
The first step is to go to the BCD Deployment tab on the left of the main menu. At the bottom of that tab is a button that says "Write MBR" with a STOP SIGN next to it. Click on that button. Do note: If your intent was to sever ties with the Linux installation, this will have done the trick. You can no longer boot the Linux portion of the dual boot until we remedy this issue in the next step.
In order to continue booting Linux after restoring the Windows boot manager to the Master Boot Record, we will add an entry for the Linux distribution in the boot manager menu. On the left side of the menu, find and click the "Add New Entry" button. Under this menu, go under the Linux/BSD tab and select "GRUB 2" under the Type dropdown menu. Fill in the Title of your Linux for identification purposes. Once finished, click the "Add Entry" button to finish your work.
To check your work, click on "Edit Boot Menu" found on the left menu tabs. There should be two entries, Windows and your Linux distribution. You can also change the boot order to fit your needs. Restart your computer after choosing the boot order and voila! You now have a Windows boot loader to choose between Windows and Linux.
Learn more about dual-booted cheap dedicated servers by clicking on the link.
