Boot Configuration Data Store Editor (BCDEDIT)
In Windows Vista and Longhorn Server, the Bcdedit.exe command-line utility modifies a systems boot configuration data store. This data store controls how the operating system is booted and contains other boot configuration parameters. These parameters were previously controlled by editing the Boot.ini file. You may use Bcdedit.exe to add, delete, edit, and append entries in this boot configuration data store.
For detailed command and option information, type bcdedit.exe /? or for help with a specific command such as the createstore command, enter bcdedit.exe /? command
The /set and /deletevalue commands require that you provide a datatype as a parameter. datatype identifies the data format and meaning of the value. When addressing a type, you may use either a name or a custom type (names and descriptions follow)…
- DESCRIPTION - Defines the description of the entry.
- PATH - Defines the path to the application.
- DEVICE - Defines the device that the application resides on.
- INHERIT - Defines the list of entries to be inherited.
As you are used to being warned, it is a good idea to create a backup of things such as this before making changes. To create a backup:
bcdedit /export "c:\temp\myBCDbackup"
To restore a saved backup:
bcdedit /import "c:\temp\myBCDbackup”
The help file will get you through what is available, but here is a quick sample to get you started…
To change the description of your previous operating system as it is displayed in the startup menu:
bcdedit /set {legacy} Description "Windows XP Professional SP2"
To change the description of the current operating system you are booted into in the same startup menu:
bcdedit /set {current} description "Windows Vista Ultimate"
More information:
Boot Configuration Data Editor Frequently Asked Questions
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