Windows Error 0xc0000142: Application Unable to Start 0xc0000142
This error typically occurs when corrupted windows system files that the application depends on. Below you'll find 5 proven fixes to resolve it.
What Causes Windows Error 0xc0000142?
Windows error 0xc0000142 (Application Unable to Start 0xc0000142) can be triggered by several issues:
- Corrupted Windows system files that the application depends on
- Application incompatible with current Windows version
- DLL initialization failure during application startup
- Windows registry corruption affecting application loading
- Multiple conflicting application versions or installations
How to Fix Windows Error 0xc0000142 — Step by Step
Run the application as Administrator
Right-click the application > Run as administrator. Initialization failures often stem from permission issues when loading system DLLs.
Set compatibility mode
Right-click the application shortcut > Properties > Compatibility tab > Run this program in compatibility mode for > select an older Windows version (e.g., Windows 8 or Windows 7). Click Apply.
Run SFC and DISM
CMD as Admin:sfc /scannowDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
These tools repair corrupted system files that application DLLs depend on.
Perform a clean boot
Win + R > msconfig > Services > Hide Microsoft services > Disable all > Startup > Open Task Manager > Disable all > Restart. Run the application in clean boot. If it works, a background program is interfering.
Reinstall the application
Uninstall completely via Settings > Apps. Restart. Download a fresh installer from the official website and reinstall. This replaces all application files and re-registers its DLLs.
Still Getting Error 0xc0000142?
IT Cares can diagnose and fix this error remotely — usually in under 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is error 0xc0000142?
During startup, the application tried to initialize a DLL but the initialization failed. This is different from a missing DLL — the DLL is present but its setup routine returned an error.
How is 0xc0000142 different from 0xc000007b?
0xc000007b means the DLL cannot be loaded (missing or wrong architecture). 0xc0000142 means the DLL loaded but its DllMain initialization function returned failure.
Does this happen with all applications?
No. It typically affects a specific application. If multiple applications show this error, the issue is in a shared system component (corrupted Windows DLL or registry).
Can antivirus cause this error?
Yes. Some antivirus products inject code into application DLLs for monitoring. If the injection fails or conflicts with the application, 0xc0000142 can occur. Test with antivirus disabled.
Should I try reinstalling Windows?
Only as a last resort. SFC and DISM repair corrupted system components without reinstalling. A clean boot eliminates software conflicts. Try all these before considering a Windows reinstall.
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