How to Fix Windows 10 Error Code 0xc00000e (2024)

The dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error code 0xc00000e, which typically appears during startup in Windows 10, can be confusing. Below, you'll learn what this startup error means and how to fix it for a smooth recovery.

What Is the Error Code 0xc00000e in Windows 10?

The error code 0xc00000e is one of the common BSOD errors that appear during startup, indicating that an important hardware device wasn't detected by Windows 10. This could be due to issues with an SSD or hard drive where system files are stored. The error can also be triggered by a corrupt system file, preventing Windows from starting up properly.

In short, any hardware or system file failure that stops Windows 10 from locating or booting up winload.exe (one of the files in the Windows Boot Manager) can cause this error. You can follow any of the troubleshooting steps below when you encounter it.

The Automatic Repair Tool from Microsoft can help fix various common Windows booting errors. You can access and run it by following these steps:

1. Turn off your PC, and then boot it up again.
2. As soon as the manufacturer's logo appears on the screen, press the F2 key to access the boot menu. This key might be different depending on the make and model of your PC.
3. Once you've entered the boot menu, change the boot options to boot from USB.
4. Insert your Windows 10 USB drive. Then, restart your computer and wait for it to boot.
5. You'll see a message that says, "Press any key to boot from USB." Press any key on your keyboard to continue. Then, select your time zone, language, and keyboard input method.
6. Click the Repair your computer button. Then, go to Troubleshooting > Advanced options > Automatic repair.

   

Repairing your corrupt Windows files will only take a few minutes. After that, check if your PC boots and runs normally as expected.

2. Rebuild the Boot Configuration Data File in Windows 10

The Boot Configuration Data (BCD) is a system file that tells Windows how to boot your operating system. If the BCD file is corrupt, it can result in a BSOD error.

To rebuild the BCD file, follow these steps:

1. Boot your computer with the Windows installation CD or a bootable USB drive as before.
2. Select the language, time zone, and input method on the Windows Setup page. Then, click the Next button.
3. Click Repair your computer and then go to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Command Prompt.
4. Type the following commands one by one. After each command, press the Enter key:

   bootrec /scanos
   bootrec /fixmbr
   bootrect /fixboot
   bootrec /rebuildbcd
   exit 

   

After running the above commands, restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

3. Perform a BIOS/UEFI Configuration Reset

The 0xc00000e error could also occur due to misconfigured BIOS settings. If that's the case, resetting the BIOS configuration should help. Here's how to do it:

1. Restart your computer and wait for the manufacturer's logo to appear. Then, press F2, F12, Esc, Del, or whatever key your manufacturer has set to enter the BIOS menu. If you're unsure, learn how to enter the BIOS on any Windows PC first.
2. Use the arrow keys on the keyboard to navigate the options in the BIOS menu.
3. Go to the Load Setup Defaults option and press the Enter button to reset the BIOS configuration.
4. Press F10 to save and exit BIOS and wait for your computer to restart.

4. Replace the CMOS Battery

The CMOS battery is a chip on your motherboard that stores the BIOS configuration, date, time, and other information. It powers your device's BIOS firmware, ensuring it remains powered even when your computer is not plugged into a power source.

If the CMOS battery is discharged, you may have trouble booting your computer and encounter the 0xc00000e error code. To fix this, you'll need to remove and replace the CMOS battery. You can refer to our guide on why your motherboard has a battery to learn how to do this.

Once you've replaced the CMOS battery, you'll need to reconfigure the BIOS settings. After that, you shouldn't encounter any errors.

5. Factory Reset Your PC

If you've tried all the methods above but still encounter the 0xc00000e error, consider performing a factory reset. Unlike other troubleshooting methods, a factory reset will format everything on your PC. Once the reset is complete, Windows will be reinstalled, and your computer will be restored to its original state.

Before you proceed, make sure you back up everything on your Windows PC. Once done, you can proceed with the factory reset using these steps:

1. Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
2. Go to Update & Security > Recovery.
3. Under the Reset This PC section, click on Get Started.
4. Choose Remove everything if you'd like to delete all your old apps, files, and settings.
5. Choose either Cloud download or Local reinstall depending on how you'd like your reinstallation to proceed.

Then, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset. If everything goes smoothly, your Windows will be back in business in no time.

BSOD errors like 0xc00000e can be a pain to deal with. However, it's not something you can't fix yourself with the solutions listed above. That said, if none of these methods work, you can try some common tips for fixing Windows 10 blue screen errors.