How to Fix "The Application Was Unable to Start Correctly 0xc0000018" Error

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The "0xc0000018" error, often accompanied by the message "The application was unable to start correctly," is a Windows error that typically appears when launching a program or after system startup. This error can occur due to a variety of reasons, including corrupted files, incompatible software, or issues with the Windows Registry. Here’s a guide to help you troubleshoot and resolve this issue.


1. Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary issues causing the error.

  • Action:
    • Save any work and restart your computer. Check if the error persists after the restart.

2. Update Windows and Drivers

Keeping your Windows operating system and drivers up-to-date can resolve compatibility issues that might be causing the error.

  • Update Windows:

    1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
    2. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

  • Update Drivers:

    1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
    2. Expand categories like Display adapters, Network adapters, and Sound, video and game controllers.
    3. Right-click each device and select Update driver.
    4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

3. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can cause various errors. Use the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) to repair these files.

  • Action:
    1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
    2. Run the System File Checker:
      sfc /scannow
    3. After the scan completes, run the DISM tool:
      DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    4. Restart your computer after both scans are complete.

4. Check for Application Compatibility Issues

The error might occur if the application is not compatible with your version of Windows or if it's running in an environment that it doesn’t support.

  • Action:
    1. Right-click the application’s shortcut or executable file and select Properties.
    2. Go to the Compatibility tab.
    3. Check the box for Run this program in compatibility mode for: and select an earlier version of Windows from the drop-down menu.
    4. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

5. Reinstall the Application

If the error is specific to a particular application, reinstalling it may resolve the issue.

  • Action:
    1. Go to Settings > Apps.
    2. Locate the application in the list and select Uninstall.
    3. Follow the prompts to remove the application.
    4. Download the latest version of the application from the official website and reinstall it.

6. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot helps identify if background programs or services are causing the issue.

  • Action:
    1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
    2. Go to the Services tab and check Hide all Microsoft services.
    3. Click Disable all to disable non-Microsoft services.
    4. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
    5. Disable all startup items.
    6. Restart your computer and check if the error persists.

7. Check for Disk Errors

Issues with the hard drive can sometimes lead to application errors.

  • Action:
    1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
    2. Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
    3. Follow the prompts to schedule a disk check on the next restart.
    4. Restart your computer and let the disk check complete.

8. Restore System to a Previous State

If the error started occurring recently, you might be able to resolve it by restoring your system to a previous state.

  • Action:
    1. Press Windows + S and type System Restore.
    2. Select Create a restore point.
    3. In the System Properties window, click System Restore.
    4. Follow the prompts to restore your system to a point before the error started occurring.

9. Check for Malware

Malware infections can cause various system issues, including application errors.

  • Action:
    1. Open Windows Security by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
    2. Click Virus & threat protection and select Quick scan or Full scan.
    3. Alternatively, use a reputable third-party antivirus program to perform a comprehensive scan.

The "0xc0000018" error can disrupt your workflow, but following these troubleshooting steps can help resolve the issue. Start with simple solutions like restarting your computer and updating software, then move on to more advanced steps such as running system scans and checking for hardware issues. If the problem persists despite these efforts, seeking professional technical support might be necessary.

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