How to Fix Error Code 0xc0000005 in Windows

What Is Error Code 0xc0000005?

Error code 0xc0000005 from Windows represents a fault that either the operating system or the hardware has generated. It is a pretty frequent occurrence in events of failures to install Windows, Access Violation errors, and inability of the programs to start. Such kind of issue may be caused by everything ranging from faulty hardware to corrupted system files.

Causes of Error Code 0xc0000005

It can be produced through several causes that are listed below:

  • Corruption in the system file or registry entry
  • Malware infection.
  • Failure of Hardware: RAM Faulty.
  • Outdated drivers or corrupted drivers.
error code 0xc0000005

Read about other common Windows errors:

Error Code 0x800701b1

Backup Error Code 0x800700E1

Zip File Extraction Error 0x80010135


9 Ways to Fix Windows Error Code 0xc0000005

Following are the methods to troubleshoot error 0xc0000005 on your Windows computer system.

1. Checking RAM

The most usual reason for this error has a problem with the RAM. This, if so, please turn off the computer, replace the RAM with a new one, or try changing its slot. If it’s still in warranty, we recommend taking the help of a professional.

2. Repairing the Windows Registry

A corrupted registry could bring in serious system errors like error 0xc0000005. Restore it if you have a backup of the registry. For manual repairs, open the following path in regedit through Windows + R typing  regedit:

  • Run HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows\AppInit_DLLs.
  • Change the value of LoadAppInit_DLLs from 1 to 0 by Double-clicking on it.
  • Save and reboot your system.

3. Running an SFC Scan

System File Checker will replace corrupted system files that may be causing the issue.

  1. Run Command Prompt from Start menu and click on “Run as administrator”.
  2. In the command prompt window, type in sfc /scannow and press Enter. Let the scan run without any interference.
  3. Once it completes the scan, restart your PC and check if the error is still showing up.

4. Running the CHKDSK Utility

Bad sectors on your hard drive can also cause error 0xc0000005. Run the utility CHKDSK to repair them by following these steps: Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Insert chkdsk X: /f /r, where you replace X with the drive letter. Press Enter and let it complete the scan.

5. Disabling DEP

DEP or Data Execution Prevention can interfere with some programs, which would bring about this error. Turn DEP off for a particular program by following these steps:

  1. Open Run and type sysdm.cpl.
  2. In the Advanced tab, click on Settings then click on Data Execution Protection, then check the box at the top that says “Turn on DEP for all programs and services option, except those I select.”
  3. Click on the Add button and look for all the EXE files that are causing the problem.
  4. Restart your device, then try launching other apps to see if this clears up the error.

6. Using the Hardware Troubleshooter

Windows includes an in-built troubleshooter that will automatically detect which hardware is causing the error:

  1. In the Start menu, search for troubleshooting.
  2. Hardware and Devices will appear; click on Run the troubleshooter.
  3. Let the tool take its course of time and find any issue and fix it automatically.
  4. If it identifies any problem, click on Apply Fixes.
  5. After doing so, reboot your system.

7. Updating Device Drivers

Outdated drivers can be one of the causes of an error. To update drivers, go to Device Manager:

  • Search for Device Manager on the Start menu.
  • Under Disk Drives, right-click on the drive where Windows and other applications are installed.
  • Under Update Driver, click the Search automatically for updated driver software option.
  • Wait for Windows to find a compatible driver. If it won’t be able to find a newer one, go to your device manufacturer’s official site and download the driver manually.

If you find the manual update of drivers too tiresome, you may always resort to Outbyte Driver Updater.

In our Driver library you can find the most suitable Chipsets and System drivers for your OS and a short guide on how to install it.

8. Running a Virus Scan

Malware can corrupt system files, leading to error 0xc0000005. Use Windows Defender or another antivirus tool to perform a full system scan.

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security.
  2. Select Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection.
  3. Run a full scan and remove any detected threats.
  4. Once the scan is complete, restart your computer and check if the error is already resolved.

Besides, you can use Outbyte AVarmor to perform a full malware scan, remove any threats, and attempt the upgrade once the system is clean.

9. Performing a System Restore

This might become the solution to the error as a last resort:

  1. From the search in the Start menu, find Create a restore point.
  2. Click on System Restore and choose any previous restore point before the error occurred.
  3. Click on Scan for affected programs. This will enumerate programs and applications that will be deleted upon choosing the said restore.
  4. If you don’t mind removing the below-mentioned applications then click Close and hit Next.
  5. At last click on Finish and check whether the error code appears

If no restore point found then, you can use data recovery tool. Using this you can recover any of the file that you have lost due to a corrupted hard drive.


FAQs

What is error code 0xc0000005?

A common error in Windows that occurs when certain system files get corrupted, or the hardware becomes faulty, or there is malware.

How to fix error 0xc0000005?

Check your RAM, repair the registry, run the SFC utility tool, update drivers, and so on.

Can an error of this type be caused by a faulty hard drive?

Yes, poor sectors on a hard drive may cause an error like this. Running CHKDSK may help you resolve it.

Is malware one of the causes of an error code 0xc0000005?

Yes, malware can indeed corrupt system files and thereby cause such an error to occur. Perform a full virus scan to remove the infection.

About The Autor
Position: Author

Riley Reed is a tech writer specializing in troubleshooting Windows errors and system performance optimization. Riley enjoys helping users solve common PC problems and improve their overall computing experience. With a focus on practical tips and performance improvements, Riley ensures readers can keep their systems running smoothly and securely.

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