Microsoft Windows Error Code 0xC0000033: How to Fix It

Medium 30-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
0xC0000033
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes
Error code 0xC0000033, also known as STATUS_OBJECT_NAME_INVALID, appears when Windows encounters a file, folder, or path with invalid characters in its name. This often happens due to special characters, corrupted system files, or malware. This guide walks you through simple fixes to resolve the error and get your system working normally.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0xC0000033

  1. Run a Full Malware Scan

    Ensure your antivirus definitions are up to date before scanning.

  2. Check File and Path Names for Invalid Characters

    Do not rename system files or folders unless you are certain they are safe to modify.

  3. Run System File Checker (SFC)

  4. Run DISM to Repair System Image

    Ensure you have a stable internet connection as DISM may download files from Windows Update.

  5. Check Disk for Errors

    Do not interrupt the chkdsk process as it may cause data loss.

  6. Restore System to a Previous Point

    System Restore will not affect your personal files, but installed programs and drivers after the restore point may be removed.
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When to Call a Professional

If none of the above steps resolve the error, the issue may be caused by severe disk corruption or hardware failure. Contact a professional technician or consider a clean installation of Windows.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error 0xC0000033 mean?
It means 'STATUS_OBJECT_NAME_INVALID', indicating that a file or path name contains invalid characters like < > : " / \ | ? * or has leading/trailing spaces.
Can I fix error 0xC0000033 without losing data?
Yes, all the steps above are non-destructive. System Restore and chkdsk are safe, but always back up important data before major repairs.
Does error 0xC0000033 appear while booting?
It can appear during boot if a critical system file or driver has an invalid name. Follow the SFC and DISM steps to repair system files.
Is this error caused by a virus?
It can be. Some malware renames files with invalid characters. Running a full antivirus scan is recommended as the first step.
What if I can't find which file has the invalid name?
Use tools like 'Process Monitor' from Microsoft Sysinternals to identify the file causing the error. Alternatively, run SFC and DISM to repair system files that may be affected.

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