Fix: The Application was unable to start correctly 0xc0000142 Error in Windows 10/ 11

Encountering the 0xc0000142 error while launching an application on Windows 10 or Windows 11 can be incredibly frustrating. This error typically points to a failure in initializing the application correctly, often due to corrupted system files or conflicts with installed software components. Thankfully, there are several reliable solutions to help resolve the issue and get your system and applications running smoothly again.

TL;DR

The 0xc0000142 error on Windows 10/11 usually indicates an application launch failure due to a corrupt dynamic link library (DLL) or incompatible software. Key fixes include running System File Checker (SFC), updating drivers and software, setting compatibility modes, or reinstalling the affected application. It’s also helpful to clean boot your system to identify any conflicting processes. Follow the steps below in sequence for the best results.

Understanding the 0xc0000142 Error

The error message typically reads: “The application was unable to start correctly (0xc0000142). Click OK to close the application.” It affects a wide range of programs, from Microsoft Office to casual games and professional software such as AutoCAD or Adobe products. This error is commonly triggered by:

• Corrupted or missing system files
• Compatibility issues with previous Windows versions
• Conflicts between programs or background services
• Outdated or faulty drivers

Understanding the root cause is the first step to fixing the problem effectively.

How to Fix Error 0xc0000142 in Windows 10 and 11

1. Run the Application as Administrator

Sometimes the application simply lacks the necessary permissions. To rectify this:

1. Right-click the application icon.
2. Click Properties, then navigate to the Compatibility tab.
3. Check the box that reads Run this program as an administrator.
4. Click Apply and OK, then try launching the app again.

2. Use Compatibility Mode

If the app was made for an earlier version of Windows, running it in compatibility mode might solve the issue:

1. Right-click the application shortcut and choose Properties.
2. Go to the Compatibility tab.
3. Check Run this program in compatibility mode for: and choose Windows 8 or Windows 7.
4. Click Apply and OK.

3. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot disables non-Windows services and startup programs, helping identify software conflicts:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
3. Check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all.
4. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
5. Disable all startup items.
6. Restart your PC and try launching the application again.

If the application now works, you can begin re-enabling services one by one to find the culprit.

4. Run the System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupt system files can interfere with application launch. To scan and repair them:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search cmd in Start, right-click and choose Run as administrator).
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait until the scan completes and follow the on-screen prompts if any issue is detected.

5. Run the DISM Tool

If SFC doesn’t resolve the problem, try using Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management (DISM):

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Enter the following commands one at a time:
   • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
   • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
3. Restart your PC when the scan completes.

6. Update or Reinstall the Application

Sometimes, specific applications become outdated or corrupted:

• First, check the application’s official site for updates.
• If updating fails, uninstall the app via Settings > Apps, restart the system, and reinstall the latest version.

7. Delete LoadAppInit_DLLs Registry Key

This registry key may be pointing Windows to load incompatible DLLs at startup. Make sure to back up your registry before making changes:

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows
3. Find the LoadAppInit_DLLs key. Double-click it and change its value to 0.
4. Restart your PC.

8. Update Graphics and Other Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can also lead to error 0xc0000142:

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Display adapters and right-click on your GPU.
3. Choose Update driver and follow the prompts.

Repeat this process for audio, network, and system drivers as necessary, especially if the application is graphics-intensive.

9. Check for Windows Updates

Windows updates often include patches for bugs that can cause system or application errors:

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates and install any that are available.

10. Perform a System Restore

If the error started recently, returning to a previous system state may fix it:

1. Search for Create a restore point in the Start menu and open it.
2. Click System Restore and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Select a restore point from a date when the application worked correctly.

Conclusion

The 0xc0000142 error is disruptive but not irreversible. Whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11, there are multiple strategies to fix it depending on the underlying cause, from registry tweaks and system scans to compatibility adjustments and clean installs. Executing the listed solutions one after another is your best bet to identify the fix that works on your specific system.

FAQs

Q: What causes the 0xc0000142 error?

A: This error is usually caused by corrupted system files, registry issues, outdated software or drivers, or compatibility problems between Windows and the application you’re trying to run.

Q: Can antivirus software trigger this error?

A: Yes, aggressive antivirus or third-party security software can sometimes interfere with application launch. Try disabling your antivirus temporarily to see if it resolves the issue.

Q: Is it safe to edit the registry?

A: Editing the registry is safe as long as you’re careful. Always backup your registry settings before making changes.

Q: Does this error affect only certain types of apps?

A: Not necessarily. It can affect any software, from small utilities to large applications like Microsoft Office or Adobe Photoshop.

Q: How do I avoid this error