Microsoft Windows Error Code 0xC0000096: How to Fix It

Easy 30-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
0xC0000096
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes
Error 0xC0000096 means a program tried to run an instruction that requires a higher privilege level than it has. This often happens after a system update, corrupted system files, or a driver conflict. Don't worry—we'll walk through simple fixes to get your PC running normally.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0xC0000096

  1. Run System File Checker (SFC)

  2. Run DISM Tool

  3. Check for Windows Updates

  4. Update or Roll Back Drivers

  5. Perform a Clean Boot

  6. Run a Virus Scan

    Make sure your antivirus definitions are up to date before scanning.
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When to Call a Professional

If the error persists after all steps, it may indicate deeper system corruption or hardware issues (e.g., failing RAM or CPU). Consider contacting a professional technician or using Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) to reset or reinstall Windows.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error 0xC0000096 mean?
It means a program tried to execute a privileged instruction that requires higher system access, often due to corrupted system files, outdated drivers, or a bad update.
Can error 0xC0000096 be caused by a virus?
Yes, malware can interfere with system processes and trigger this error. Running a full antivirus scan is recommended.
Do I need to reinstall Windows to fix error 0xC0000096?
Not usually. Most cases are resolved with SFC, DISM, driver updates, or clean boot. Reinstalling Windows is a last resort.
Will a system restore fix error 0xC0000096?
If you have a restore point from before the error started, yes. Go to Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore and choose an earlier point.
Is error 0xC0000096 hardware related?
Rarely, but if software fixes don't help, faulty RAM or CPU issues can cause similar errors. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic (mdsched.exe) to check RAM.

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