Question 115 of 144
SK0-005 troubleshooting Practice Question
A server fails to boot with an 'Operating System Not Found' error. The BIOS detects the hard drive. What is the MOST likely cause?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Corrupted Master Boot Record
Option B is correct because a corrupted Master Boot Record (MBR) can prevent the system from locating the OS loader even when the drive is detected by BIOS. Option A (incorrect memory timings) would typically cause POST failures, not a missing OS message. Option C (failed CPU) would prevent POST entirely. Option D (overheating) would likely cause shutdowns before OS load.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Failed CPU
Why it's wrong here
A failed CPU would prevent the system from completing POST, so the error would not appear.
- ✗
Incorrect memory timings
Why it's wrong here
Memory timing issues usually cause POST beep codes or instability, not an 'OS not found' error.
- ✗
Overheating
Why it's wrong here
Thermal issues typically cause shutdowns during POST or early boot stages, not a clean 'OS not found' message.
- ✓
Corrupted Master Boot Record
Why this is correct
If the MBR is damaged or missing, the BIOS can detect the drive but cannot hand off to the OS bootloader.
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Last reviewed: Jul 26, 2026
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