Microsoft Windows Error Code 0xC0000137: How to Fix It
Easy 30-60 minutes Medium Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- 0xC0000137
- Brand
- Microsoft Windows
- Product Type
- operating_system
- Severity
- Medium
- DIY Difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated Fix Time
- 30-60 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- Windows PC with administrator access
How to Fix Error Code 0xC0000137
-
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Ensure your PC is connected to the internet. -
Perform a System File Check (SFC)
-
Run the DISM Tool
Do not close the Command Prompt window during the process. -
Uninstall Recent Windows Updates
Uninstalling updates may temporarily expose your system to known vulnerabilities. -
Perform a Clean Boot
-
Run a Virus Scan
Ensure your antivirus definitions are up to date.
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When to Call a Professional
If none of the above steps resolve the error, the issue may be due to deeper system corruption or hardware failure. Consider contacting a professional technician or using Windows System Restore to revert your PC to an earlier state. If the error occurs during boot, you may need to use Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) to perform advanced repairs.Frequently Asked Questions
What causes Windows error 0xC0000137?
This error is caused by a failed IO privilege operation, often due to corrupted system files, problematic Windows updates, driver conflicts, or malware.
Can error 0xC0000137 be fixed without reinstalling Windows?
Yes, in many cases running SFC, DISM, uninstalling recent updates, or performing a clean boot can fix it without reinstalling.
Is error 0xC0000137 a virus?
Not necessarily, but malware can cause this error. Running a full virus scan is recommended.