Microsoft Windows Error Code 0xC000005C: How to Fix It
Medium 30-60 minutes Medium Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- 0xC000005C
- Brand
- Microsoft Windows
- Product Type
- operating_system
- Severity
- Medium
- DIY Difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated Fix Time
- 30-60 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- Administrator access to Windows
How to Fix Error Code 0xC000005C
-
Run System File Checker (SFC)
-
Run DISM to Repair System Image
-
Check User Profile Integrity
Editing the registry can cause serious problems. Backup the registry before making changes. -
Create a New User Profile
-
Perform a Clean Boot
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When to Call a Professional
If none of the above steps resolve the error, consider contacting Microsoft Support or a professional IT technician, as the issue may involve deeper system corruption or hardware problems.Frequently Asked Questions
What causes error 0xC000005C in Windows?
This error is typically caused by corrupted system files, damaged user profiles, or invalid security group attributes in the registry.
Can I fix error 0xC000005C without reinstalling Windows?
Yes, most cases can be resolved using System File Checker, DISM, and profile repairs without a full reinstall.
Is error 0xC000005C a blue screen error?
It can appear as a blue screen or as an application crash. The steps above address both scenarios.
Do I need to backup my data before fixing this error?
It's recommended to backup important data before performing registry edits or profile deletions to prevent data loss.
How do I create a new user profile in Windows?
Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users, click 'Add someone else to this PC', and follow the prompts. A local account is sufficient for testing.