How to Resolve the 0xc000007b Error on Windows
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Encountering the “The application was unable to start correctly (0xc000007b)” error message when trying to launch an application or game on your Windows system can be incredibly frustrating. Thankfully, you can fix this error code by following a few straightforward steps. In this guide, we will explore the causes of the 0xc000007b error and provide solutions to help you resolve it.
Understanding the 0xc000007b Error
The 0xc000007b error is often the result of corrupted application files or conflicts between 32-bit and 64-bit versions of software and the Windows operating system. This error typically presents a message that reads “The application was unable to start correctly,” and it prompts you to close the application. Regardless of how many times you attempt to launch the application or game, the error persists. Fortunately, there are several methods to address this issue.
How to Fix the 0xc000007b Error
Depending on the root cause of the problem, there are multiple ways to tackle the 0xc000007b error. We’ll start with the simplest solutions and progressively move towards more advanced troubleshooting methods.
Restart Your PC
Sometimes, the 0xc000007b error may occur due to minor system glitches. To resolve this, consider rebooting your PC:
- Open the “Start” menu.
- Select the Power icon.
- Choose “Restart.”
Once your PC restarts, attempt to launch the problematic application or game to see if the error has been resolved.
Update Windows
Outdated Windows versions can lead to various errors, including the 0xc000007b error. Ensure your operating system is up to date by following these steps:
For Windows 11:
- Open Settings (Windows+i).
- Select “Windows Update” on the left.
- Click “Check for Updates” on the right.
After installing any available updates, restart your PC to apply the changes. This should help resolve the issue.
For Windows 10:
- Press Windows+i to open Settings.
- Choose “Update & Security.”
- Click “Check for Updates.”
Once the updates are installed, restart your PC, and the error should be resolved.
Run Your App with Admin Rights
Some applications require administrative privileges to function correctly. If your application falls into this category, running it with admin rights may solve the 0xc000007b error:
- Locate the shortcut for your application.
- Right-click on the shortcut.
- Choose “Run as Administrator” from the menu.
- In the “User Account Control” prompt, select “Yes.”
If your application functions correctly in admin mode, consider making admin mode the default. To do this, right-click on the application shortcut, select “Properties,” go to the “Shortcut” tab, and click “Advanced.” Check the “Run as Administrator” option and apply the changes. Your application will now always launch with admin privileges.
Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages are essential for many applications to function. Corrupted packages can lead to errors. To address this issue:
- Open the Control Panel (you can find it in the Start menu).
- Navigate to “Programs” and select “Uninstall a Program.”
- Identify and note the names of all “Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable” packages.
- Select each package and choose “Uninstall.” Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation.
- Reboot your PC.
After your PC restarts, visit the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable website to download the latest packages and install them on your computer. Try running the application in question to check if the error is resolved.
Uninstall and Reinstall Your App
Faulty core files within your application can lead to launch issues. To address this, consider uninstalling and then reinstalling the application:
For Windows 11:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & Features.
- Locate the app you want to remove.
- Click the three dots next to the app and select “Uninstall.” Confirm your action in the prompt.
For Windows 10:
- Open Settings.
- Click “Apps.”
- Find the app you want to remove, then click “Uninstall.” Confirm your choice in the prompt.
After uninstalling the app, restart your PC, and then reinstall it by running the installer file. This process will replace any faulty files with working ones.
Fix Windows’ Corrupt Files
Corrupt system files can cause application launch problems. You can use the built-in System File Checker (SFC) tool to find and fix corrupt files:
- Launch an elevated Command Prompt by searching for “Command Prompt” in the Start menu and selecting “Run as Administrator” from the right-click menu.
- In the “User Account Control” prompt, choose “Yes.”
- Type the following command and press Enter:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth. This command requests Windows Update to provide your PC with the necessary files to fix your corrupt system. - Wait for the command to finish executing.
- Run the following command to scan for and fix corrupt files:
sfc /scannow. When the command completes, all corrupt files should be fixed.
Your 0xc000007b Windows error should now be resolved, allowing you to enjoy your favorite applications and games without any issues.
