Microsoft Windows Error Code 0xC0000123: How to Fix It

Easy 30-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
0xC0000123
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes
Error code 0xC0000123 (STATUS_FILE_DELETED) indicates that Windows tried to access a file that has been deleted or moved since the operation started. This often happens when a program's installation or a system update is interrupted, or when a file used by an application is manually deleted. The error can cause an app to crash or fail to start.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0xC0000123

  1. Restart Your PC

  2. Run System File Checker (SFC)

    Do not close the Command Prompt window during the scan.

  3. Run DISM Tool

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

  4. Reinstall the Affected Application

  5. Check for Windows Updates

  6. Perform a Clean Boot

    After troubleshooting, revert the changes by re-enabling services and startup items.

  7. Restore from Backup (If Recent)

    System Restore will undo recent system changes but may not affect personal files. Backup important data first.
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When to Call a Professional

If the error persists after all steps, or if you suspect malware or deeper system corruption, consider contacting Microsoft Support or a local PC technician. Data recovery services may be needed if critical files are missing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes error 0xC0000123?
This error occurs when Windows or an application tries to access a file that has been deleted, moved, or otherwise made unavailable. Common causes include interrupted installations, manual file deletion, or system file corruption.
Can I recover the deleted file that caused the error?
If you accidentally deleted a file, you can check the Recycle Bin. For permanently deleted files, use a file recovery tool like Recuva or Windows File Recovery (available from Microsoft Store). However, if the file was part of a system component, running SFC or DISM may restore it.
Does error 0xC0000123 mean my hard drive is failing?
Not necessarily. The error is typically software-related. However, run 'chkdsk /f' in Command Prompt to check for disk errors. If bad sectors are found, back up your data and consider replacing the drive.
How do I fix error 0xC0000123 in Windows 10/11?
Follow the steps in this guide: restart, run SFC and DISM, reinstall affected apps, check updates, and perform a clean boot. If these don't work, try System Restore or a repair installation of Windows.
Is error 0xC0000123 dangerous?
It's a medium-severity error that can prevent programs from running but is not typically a security threat. However, if the error occurs repeatedly, it may indicate underlying system issues that should be addressed.

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