SOLVED: Error 0xc00000e On Windows? [All Methods]

Are you encountering the dreaded Error 0xc00000e on your computer screen? In that case, these simple steps will guide you through the process of resolving this error from your PC. 

Key Takeaways 

• Error 0xc00000e is a boot error that prevents your computer from starting the operating system. It’s a distress signal indicating issues with the system’s ability to initiate the boot process. 
• This error can stem from various sources, including corrupted system files, misconfigured boot settings, hardware connection problems, incompatible or faulty drivers, and even outdated BIOS/UEFI versions. 
• To fix Error 0xc00000e, follow methods such as checking hardware connections, repairing system files, rebuilding boot data, trying automatic repair, updating BIOS/UEFI, and reinstalling Windows.  

What Causes Error 0xc00000e?

Error 0xc00000e is a boot error that occurs when your computer encounters difficulties in initiating the operating system, indicating potential issues with the system’s startup process. It can be caused due to a number of reasons such as: 

1. Corrupted system files 
2. Misconfigured boot settings 
3. Hardware connection issues 
4. Incompatible or faulty drivers 
5. Outdated BIOS/UEFI versions 

If you face the error, you will see the following message displayed on your screen:

How To Fix Error 0xc00000e?

Before going over more advanced methods, we recommend trying out these short solutions:  

• Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor boot-related issues.
• Disconnect External Devices: Unplug any external devices like USB drives, printers, or external hard drives, as they might be causing conflicts during boot.
• Remove Recently Added Hardware or Software: If you recently added new hardware or software, remove it temporarily to see if the error persists.

Check Hardware Connections 

Before diving into software fixes, we’ll ensure that all hardware components, such as hard drives and RAM, are properly connected. 

Follow these steps: 

1. Power off your computer. 
2. Open the computer case of your PC or access the bottom panel of your laptop. 
3. Gently reseat RAM modules, hard drives, and any other removable components. 
4. Close the case or panel and power on the computer. 

Also Read: The Computer Has Rebooted From A Bugcheck

Repair System Files 

Corrupted system files can be a common trigger for Error 0xc00000e. We should try running a system file scan which can help identify and fix these issues. 

Here’s how to repair system files: 

1. Insert your Windows installation media (DVD/USB) and boot from it. 
2. Select your language and click “Next.”

   

3. Click on “Repair your computer”. 
   

   

4. Choose “Troubleshoot.”

   

5. Under Advanced options, choose “Command Prompt.” 
   

   

6. In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter. 
   

   

7. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions. 

Rebuild BCD (Boot Configuration Data) 

Error 0xc00000e can also result from a corrupt or misconfigured BCD. We will try rebuilding it which may resolve the issue. 

Follow these steps: 

1. Access the Command Prompt using the previous method.

   

2. Type the following commands and press Enter after each: 
   bootrec /fixmbr
   bootrec /fixboot
   bootrec /rebuildbcd 
   

   

3. Follow on-screen prompts, and when asked, confirm the action. 

Also Read: Automatic Repair Couldn’t Repair Your PC

Check Disk For Errors 

A faulty hard drive can cause boot errors. We’ll be checking and repairing any disk errors that can help resolve the error. This will be done via disk check. 

To check the disk for errors, follow these steps: 

1. Access the Command Prompt from the installation media.

   

2. Type chkdsk C: /f /r (replace “C” with your system drive letter) and press Enter.

   

3. Allow the scan to complete and follow any repair prompts. 

Disable Driver Signature Enforcement 

Incompatible or corrupted drivers may trigger Error 0xc00000e. We recommend you temporarily disable driver signature enforcement which can help diagnose the issue and help you uninstall any problematic drivers. 

Here’s how to disable driver signature enforcement: 

1. Access the Advanced Options menu using previous methods. 
2. Select “Startup Settings.”

   

3. Click on “Restart.”
   

   

4. Select “Disable Driver Signature Enforcement” using the number keys or function keys.

   

5. Boot into Windows and update or uninstall problematic drivers. 

Perform System Restore 

If you recently installed software or malware that may be causing the error, a system restore to a previous point can undo potential conflicts. 

Follow these steps:  

1. Boot from your installation media. 
2. Choose “System Restore” in the Advanced Options menu. 
   

   

3. Follow the prompts to select a restore point and begin the process. 

Use Automatic Repair 

Windows has a built-in Automatic Repair feature that can fix common boot issues, including Error 0xc00000e. We’ll run it to see if it can resolve the error. 

To use the Automatic Repair feature, follow these steps: 

1. Boot from your installation media. 
2. Select “Startup Repair” in the Advanced Options menu. 
   

   

3. Follow the on-screen instructions and allow Windows to attempt repairs. 

Update BIOS/UEFI 

An outdated BIOS/UEFI version might lead to compatibility problems. That’s why updating it can potentially fix Error 0xc00000e. 

Follow these steps: 

1. Identify your computer’s motherboard model. 
2. Visit the manufacturer’s website for BIOS/UEFI updates. 
3. Follow their instructions to download and install the latest version. 

Reinstall Windows 

If all else fails, a clean Windows installation can resolve persistent issues. 

Here’s how to reinstall Windows: 

1. Back up your important data to an external drive. 
2. Boot from your Windows installation media. 
3. Choose “Install Now” and follow the prompts.

   

4. Select “Custom Install” and follow the instructions to format and install Windows. 

Seek Professional Help 

If none of the methods work, it might be time to seek assistance from a professional technician. Contact a certified computer technician or Microsoft support. Provide details about the steps you’ve taken and the error you’re facing and follow their guidance to diagnose and fix the issue.