GuidesError FixesSOLVED: Error 0xc00000e On Windows?

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

The Error 0xc00000e can be fixed using methods such as rebuilding boot data, trying automatic repair, updating BIOS/UEFI, and more.

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system files, misconfigured boot settings, hardware connection problems, incompatible or faulty drivers, and even outdated BIOS/UEFI versions.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 0x00000e
Error 0x00000e – (Image by Tech4Gamers)

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 Outdated BIOS/UEFI versions 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:

Error Message: Recovery.

Your PC needs to be repaired.

A required device isn’t connected or can’t be accessed.

Error code: 0x00000e. You’ll need to use the recovery tools on your installation media. If you don’t have any installation media (like a disc or USB device), contact your system administrator or PC manufacturer.

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.”
    Select Language
    Select Language – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  3. Click on “Repair your computer”

    Select Repair
    Repair your computer – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  4. Choose “Troubleshoot.”
    Troubleshoot
    Troubleshoot – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  5. Under Advanced options, choose “Command Prompt.” 

    Command Prompt
    Command Prompt – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  6. In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter. 

    Run SFC Scan
    SFC Scan – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  7. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions. 
 Important: It can take a while for the scan to complete, so make sure to be patient throughout the process.  

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.
    Command Prompt
    Command Prompt – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  2. Type the following commands and press Enter after each: 
    bootrec /fixmbr
    bootrec /fixboot
    bootrec /rebuildbcd 

    Run Bootrec rebuild bcd command
    Rebuilding Of The Boot Configuration Data (BCD) File – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  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.
    Command Prompt
    Command Prompt – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  2. Type chkdsk C: /f /r (replace “C” with your system drive letter) and press Enter.
    Run Disk Check command
    Disk Check – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  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.”
    Startup Settings
    Startup Settings – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  3. Click on “Restart.”

    Restart
    Restart – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  4. Select “Disable Driver Signature Enforcement” using the number keys or function keys.
    Disable driver signature enforcement
    Disable driver signature enforcement – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  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. 

    System Restore
    System Restore – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  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. 

    Startup Repair
    Startup Repair – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  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.
    Install Now
    Install Now – (Image by Tech4Gamers)
  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. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Error 0xc00000e mean? 

Error 0xc00000e is a boot error that indicates a problem with your computer’s ability to start up the operating system. 

Why does Error 0xc00000e occur? 

This error can occur due to issues like corrupted system files, misconfigured boot settings, or hardware problems, preventing your system from booting normally. 

Will reinstalling Windows delete my files?

Yes, reinstalling Windows will erase your files, so make sure to back up important data before proceeding. 

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Dayan Shahid
Dayan Shahid
Dayan Shahid is a skilled mechanical engineer passionate about technology. With certifications in various programming languages and subjects ranging from microcontrollers to aerial robotics, he can effortlessly present complex technical topics in an engaging way. His ability to bridge the gap between theory and practical applications sets him apart as he continues to inspire others through their insightful content.

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