Windows 11 - Changed RST to AHCI

[Ratel]

Greetings Friends,
My objective was:
Install Linux Zorin OS on a USB stick for live use. Cannot install Linux Zorin with Windows 11 with RST active.
Changes made in Systems:
1. BIOS - Optane to AHCI
2. Device Manager/Storage Contoller - Intel RST to Microsoft
On Systems restart received error message on Blue Screen:
"STOP Code: Inaccessible Boot Drive"
Corrections made in Systems:
BIOS - AHCI to Optane
Corrections not made (due to lack of skills):
Device Manager/Storage Contoller - Intel Microsoft to Intel RST
On Systems restart received error message on Blue Screen:
"STOP Code: Inaccessible Boot Drive"

Please advise fix solution.

[LeonWaksman · Accepted solution]

In order to change SATA mode from RST to AHCI (or vice versa), without corrupting the Windows boot, you need first set Windows to SAFE boot mode. Since the boot partition of your Windows is already corrupted, you need to fix it buy using third party (for example Macrium Reflect) recovery USB or restore your drive from backup if you have one.

Once the SATA mode is changed, set your Windows boot mode to NORMAL.

Leon

[Ratel]

Thank you Leon for your response.
I have followed your instruction. An IT specialist is doing the recovery for me. Sometimes learning the hard way is the only way. Regards

[Ratel]

Hope you have a Great 2024!
My Acer Aspire 5 Notebook (RST with RAID) is working again with the following new status:
1. Optane memory card replaced with SSD. C: Drive Windows 11 installed (working).
2. Original TB drive partitioned. Drive (Linux) not installed. F: Drive (Back-ups) used.
My objective is to install Linux on the Drive. Dual boot into Windows or Linux when required.

I tried to install Linux with a Bootable USB. System message "Cannot do this with RST active".
In the BIOS there are two SATA mode options:
1. RST with RAID
2. AHCI

What setting changes are required in BIOS and Device Manager etc. to achieve my said objective.

Regards

[LeonWaksman]

1. The answer was given already in my first post. Before changing the SATA Mode to AHCI, perform full backup of your System Drive (in case that something will go wrong).

2.  In order to change SATA Mode without destroying Windows boot, Windows must be set to SAFE Boot Mode. While in Windows, press Windows key + r. In windows write msconfig and click Enter .  Chose Boot tab and enable Safe boot. Reboot your system in SAFE mode.

3. Reboot again and enter Bios settings. 

4. Now you can change the SATA mode to "AHCI". Save the setting and boot into windows in SAFE mode. Disregard the warning you will see. 

5. While in Windows, press Windows key + r. Run msconfig. Chose Boot tab and uncheck Safe boot.  

6. Reboot your computer in Windows NORMAL mode and AHCI SATA mode.

Leon

[n_scott_pearson]

Leon has laid it out exactly right considering that you've done the Windows reinstall. For completeness, your other choice is (or at least would have been) to set the SATA Mode to AHCI and then install Windows (and later Linux).

Hope this helps,

...S