Microsoft Windows Error Code 0xC00000AB: How to Fix It

Medium 30-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
0xC00000AB
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes
Error code 0xC00000AB, also known as STATUS_INSTANCE_NOT_AVAILABLE, indicates that a pipe instance is unavailable in Windows. This typically occurs when an application tries to communicate with another process via a named pipe that has reached its maximum number of instances or is not available. The error is usually triggered by software conflicts, corrupted system files, or issues with services like Windows Update or Print Spooler. Follow the steps below to resolve it.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0xC00000AB

  1. Restart Your Computer

  2. Run the System File Checker (SFC) Tool

    Do not close Command Prompt during the scan.

  3. Run the DISM Tool

    Ensure you have a stable internet connection.

  4. Check for Windows Updates

  5. Restart Windows Services Involved with Pipes

  6. Perform a Clean Boot

    This disables non-Microsoft services temporarily.

  7. Run a Malware Scan

  8. Reinstall the Problematic Application

    Back up any necessary data before uninstalling.
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When to Call a Professional

If none of the above steps work, the issue may be due to deeper system corruption or hardware problems. Consider contacting a professional technician or Microsoft Support for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error 0xC00000AB mean?
Error 0xC00000AB stands for STATUS_INSTANCE_NOT_AVAILABLE, meaning a named pipe instance is unavailable. This usually happens when an application tries to use a pipe that has reached its maximum number of instances or is not properly set up.
Can error 0xC00000AB be caused by malware?
Yes, malware can interfere with system processes and named pipes, leading to this error. Running a full antivirus scan is recommended.
Does error 0xC00000AB require reinstalling Windows?
No, in most cases the error can be fixed with the steps above. Reinstalling Windows should be a last resort if all other fixes fail.
Is error 0xC00000AB related to Windows Update?
It can be. If the Windows Update service is malfunctioning, it may trigger this error. Restarting the service or installing updates often resolves it.
Can a clean boot permanently fix error 0xC00000AB?
A clean boot only helps identify the cause. Once you find the problematic software, uninstalling or updating it should provide a permanent fix.

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