Quick Summary
The error code 0xC0000142 typically indicates a problem during application startup, specifically failing to properly initialize. This commonly arises from issues with application dependencies, corrupted files, or permission problems.
Common Causes
- Corrupted Application Files: Damaged or incomplete application files can prevent the application from starting correctly. This includes executable files (.exe), dynamic link libraries (.dll), and configuration files.
- Missing or Corrupted DLL Files: Applications rely on DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files to function, and if any of these are missing or corrupted, the application may fail to start. This is a very common cause.
- Conflicting Software: Incompatibilities with other software installed on the system, such as antivirus programs or firewalls, can interfere with an application's startup process.
- Insufficient Permissions: The application may not have the necessary permissions to access required files or system resources. A lack of administrative privileges can trigger this error.
- Outdated Drivers: Outdated or incompatible device drivers, especially for graphics cards, can create conflicts that lead to application startup failures.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Restart Your Computer
Before trying any advanced troubleshooting, perform a simple restart. This can resolve temporary glitches and close conflicting processes.
If the issue persists after restarting, proceed with the following steps.
Method 2: Run the Application as Administrator
Granting the application administrative privileges can resolve permission-related issues.
Step 1: Right-click on the application's executable (.exe) file.
Step 2: Select 'Run as administrator'.
Step 3: If prompted, confirm the action.
Method 3: Reinstall the Application
A clean reinstall can replace corrupted or missing application files.
Step 1: Uninstall the application through the 'Apps & features' (or 'Programs and Features' on older systems) in the Control Panel or Settings.
Step 2: Download the latest version of the application from the official website.
Step 3: Install the application.
Method 4: Run System File Checker (SFC)
The System File Checker can identify and repair corrupted system files.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as administrator (search for 'cmd', right-click, and select 'Run as administrator').
Step 2: Type 'sfc /scannow' and press Enter.
Step 3: Wait for the scan to complete. This may take some time.
Step 4: Restart your computer after the scan is finished.
Method 5: Update or Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables
Many applications rely on the Visual C++ Redistributable packages. Problems arise when versions are missing, outdated, or currupted.
Step 1: Go to the Microsoft website and search for the latest Visual C++ Redistributable packages.
Step 2: Download and install both the x86 and x64 versions, even if you have a 64-bit system.
Step 3: For older programs, you might need to find and install older versions of the Redistributable packages. You can usually find these, if necessary, on the application's website or in its installation directory.
Step 4: Restart your computer after installation.
Method 6: Check Application Dependencies
Use Dependency Walker (a free tool) to identify missing DLL files.
Step 1: Download Dependency Walker from a trusted source. It's crucial to be careful about the source, as older versions especially can be bundled with malware.
Step 2: Run Dependency Walker and open the application's .exe file.
Step 3: Dependency Walker will show a hierarchical tree of all the application's dependencies. Look for any missing DLLs (they will usually have an error symbol) and download the missing files from a reputable DLL download site. (DLL files should ideally be downloaded from the software vendor's website if available, rather than a 3rd party DLL download site.)
Step 4: Place the downloaded DLL file in the same directory as the application executable or in the 'System32' or 'SysWOW64' directory.