Windows Error 0xC0000005: Access Violation
This error typically occurs when corrupted or incompatible software installation. Below you'll find 5 proven fixes to resolve it.
What Causes Windows Error 0xC0000005?
Windows error 0xC0000005 (Access Violation) can be triggered by several issues:
- Corrupted or incompatible software installation
- Malware modifying memory access
- Faulty RAM causing memory errors
- Outdated device drivers conflicting with the app
- Data Execution Prevention (DEP) blocking the application
How to Fix Windows Error 0xC0000005 — Step by Step
Reinstall the affected software
Uninstall the program via Settings > Apps, then download a fresh installer from the official website. This replaces any corrupted application files causing the access violation.
Run a malware scan
Open Windows Security > Virus and threat protection > Quick scan. Also download Malwarebytes (free) and run a full scan. Malware that hooks into processes causes access violations.
Run MemTest86
Boot from a MemTest86 USB and run 2+ passes. Faulty RAM causes memory access errors. If errors appear, replace the failing stick.
Update device drivers
Open Device Manager > right-click each entry > Update driver. Focus on GPU, chipset, and audio drivers. An outdated driver can write to protected memory regions.
Add a DEP exception for the app
Right-click This PC > Properties > Advanced system settings > Performance Settings > Data Execution Prevention > Turn on DEP for all programs except those I select > Add the affected .exe file.
Still Getting Error 0xC0000005?
IT Cares can diagnose and fix this error remotely — usually in under 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Access Violation 0xC0000005 mean?
A program tried to read from or write to a memory address it is not allowed to access. Windows terminates the program to protect system stability.
Is this a virus?
Not necessarily, but malware is one cause. Run a malware scan alongside other fixes. If the error only affects one app, corrupted installation is more likely.
Why does this error appear in older games?
Older games were not designed with DEP or modern memory protections in mind. Adding a DEP exception for the game executable usually fixes it.
Can I ignore this error?
Only if it is in a non-critical app. In system processes, access violations indicate serious problems. Do not ignore crashes in antivirus, drivers, or Windows components.
Does reinstalling Windows fix access violations?
It can, but it is a last resort. Reinstalling the specific app, updating drivers, and scanning for malware resolve the vast majority of cases without touching Windows itself.
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