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Windows - Application Was Unable to Start Correctly (0xc000007b) Error


Flat-style digital illustration of a PC screen showing a software startup error with a warning sign and the message “The application was unable to start.”
Windows Application Error

Let’s Dive In


Getting the dreaded “The application was unable to start correctly (0xc000007b)” error can be frustrating—especially when you’re trying to launch a favorite game or important software. The good news? You’re not alone, and this error can be fixed.



In this blog, we’ll walk you through what causes this issue, how to fix it using several working methods, and how to prevent it in the future.


🔍 What Causes the 0xc000007b Error?

This error usually appears when there's a mix-up between 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows and application files.


It can happen due to:


  • Corrupt or incompatible DLL files


  • Missing or outdated Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables


  • Damaged .NET Framework


  • Incomplete or corrupted app/game installations


  • Missing DirectX components


🛠️ How to Fix “0xc000007b” Error in Windows

Here are the most effective methods to resolve the issue:


  1. Restart Your PC


  • Simple but effective. Sometimes a fresh reboot resolves temporary file corruption or background conflicts.



  1. Run the App as Administrator


  • Right-click the application → Run as Administrator.This gives the program necessary permissions it might be lacking.


  1. Reinstall the Application


  • Uninstall the program completely, then reinstall it. Ensure you're using the correct version (32-bit or 64-bit) based on your system.


  1. Install or Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables


Corrupted or missing redistributables are one of the top causes of this error.


  • Download and install all Visual C++ Redistributables (2005 to 2022) from the official Microsoft website.


  • Make sure you install both x86 and x64 versions.


  1. Update or Repair .NET Framework


  • Go to Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off


  • Check if .NET Framework 3.5 and 4.8 are enabled


  • If not, enable them and restart


You can also download the latest .NET Framework installer from Microsoft’s site.


  1. Install/Repair DirectX


DirectX issues can cause this error, especially with games.


  • Download and run the DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer from Microsoft’s site


  • It updates missing DirectX DLL files (Check out Here: How to fix dll files)



  1. Use Dependency Walker (Advanced)


Dependency Walker is a free tool that can help diagnose DLL errors.


  • Download and run it on the app’s .exe file

  • It shows which DLLs are failing to load

  • Replace corrupt DLLs from trusted sources if needed


Note: Use with caution—replacing system DLLs improperly can cause new issues.


  1. Use System File Checker (SFC)


Open Command Prompt as Administrator, then run:

sfc /scannow
Windows Command Prompt

This checks and repairs corrupted system files.


  1. Update Windows


Ensure your Windows is fully updated:


  • Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates


Windows Update Tab

  1. Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)


  • If none of the above methods work, and you’re constantly facing software crashes or system instability, a clean reinstall of Windows may fix deeper OS-level corruption.


🧠 Quick Recap – Fixing 0xc000007b

Method

Recommended For

Restart PC

First-time users

Run as Admin

Permission-related issues

Reinstall App

Version mismatch or corruption

Install VC++ Redistributables

Missing or outdated DLLs

Repair .NET Framework

Apps requiring .NET support

Fix DirectX

Gaming-related crashes

Use SFC

General system file repair


🛡️ How to Prevent This Error in the Future


  • Always download software from trusted sources

  • Keep Windows and drivers up to date

  • Regularly update Visual C++, .NET, and DirectX

  • Avoid force-closing installations or updates



Flat-style digital illustration of a PC screen showing a software startup error with a warning sign and the message “The application was unable to start.”

Conclusion


The 0xc000007b error is annoying but definitely fixable. Start with simple solutions like reinstalling the app or running it as administrator. If that doesn’t work, updating key system components like Visual C++ and DirectX usually resolves the issue.


Still facing problems? Drop your issue in the comments !


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