How to Fix Application Error 0xc0000142 (Various Windows Applications)
Quick Answer
Application Error 0xc0000142 indicates that a program failed to initialize correctly, often due to corrupted system files, outdated drivers, or incompatible software components. The fastest initial fix is to restart the computer, which can resolve temporary system glitches.
What Causes This Error
- Corrupted or missing system files (e.g., DLL files)
- Outdated or incompatible display drivers
- Conflicts with third-party software or antivirus programs
- Incorrect Windows updates or system configuration
- Malware or virus infection
- Issues with the .NET Framework or Visual C++ Redistributable packages
- Damaged application installation files
Step-by-Step Fixes
1Restart Your Computer
- Save any open work and close all applications.
- Click the 'Start' button.
- Select the 'Power' icon.
- Choose 'Restart' from the options.
- After the computer restarts, attempt to launch the application again.
2Run the Application in Compatibility Mode
- Locate the executable file (.exe) of the application causing the error.
- Right-click on the executable file and select 'Properties'.
- Navigate to the 'Compatibility' tab.
- Check the box labeled 'Run this program in compatibility mode for:'.
- Select an earlier version of Windows from the dropdown menu (e.g., Windows 7 or Windows 8).
- Check the box labeled 'Run this program as an administrator'.
- Click 'Apply' and then 'OK'.
- Attempt to launch the application.
3Update Display Drivers
- Press the 'Windows key + X' and select 'Device Manager'.
- Expand the 'Display adapters' section.
- Right-click on your graphics card.
- Select 'Update driver'.
- Choose 'Search automatically for updated driver software'.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the update.
- Restart your computer after the update is complete.
4Reinstall the Problematic Application
- Press the 'Windows key + R', type 'appwiz.cpl', and press 'Enter'.
- Locate the application that is displaying the 0xc0000142 error.
- Right-click on the application and select 'Uninstall'.
- Follow any on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation.
- Restart your computer.
- Download the latest version of the application from its official source.
- Install the application and attempt to launch it.
Advanced Fixes
Perform a System File Checker (SFC) Scan
- Press the 'Windows key + S', type 'cmd', right-click on 'Command Prompt', and select 'Run as administrator'.
- In the Command Prompt window, type 'sfc /scannow' and press 'Enter'.
- Allow the scan to complete. This process may take some time.
- If corrupted files are found and repaired, restart your computer.
- Attempt to launch the application.
Run a Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Scan
- Press the 'Windows key + S', type 'cmd', right-click on 'Command Prompt', and select 'Run as administrator'.
- In the Command Prompt window, type 'DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth' and press 'Enter'.
- Allow the scan to complete. This process may take several minutes.
- Once the operation is complete, restart your computer.
- Attempt to launch the application. If the error persists, run the SFC scan again after DISM.
Update or Reinstall .NET Framework and Visual C++ Redistributable
- Check for available Windows updates, as these often include .NET Framework updates.
- To reinstall Visual C++ Redistributable, go to 'Add or remove programs' (appwiz.cpl).
- Uninstall all Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages listed.
- Restart your computer.
- Download and install the latest supported Visual C++ Redistributable packages directly from the Microsoft website for your system architecture (x86, x64).
- Attempt to launch the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Application Error 0xc0000142 mean?
Application Error 0xc0000142 indicates that an application failed to initialize or start correctly. This is often due to issues with system files, drivers, or conflicts with other software components that the application relies on.
Can malware cause error 0xc0000142?
Yes, malware or viruses can corrupt system files or interfere with application processes, leading to errors like 0xc0000142. Running a full system scan with reputable antivirus software is recommended if other fixes do not resolve the issue.
Is it safe to delete and reinstall Visual C++ Redistributable packages?
Yes, it is generally safe to uninstall and reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages. These are common components required by many applications. Ensure you download the correct and latest versions directly from Microsoft's official website after uninstalling.
Will a Windows update fix Application Error 0xc0000142?
A Windows update can potentially fix Application Error 0xc0000142 if the error is caused by outdated system components, drivers, or .NET Framework versions. Keeping your operating system updated is a good practice for system stability.