Microsoft Windows Error Code 0xC0000226: How to Fix It

Medium 30-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
Summarize with ChatGPTSummarize with ClaudeSummarize with Perplexity Add as Preferred Source on Google
Error Code
0xC0000226
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes
Error code 0xC0000226, or STATUS_NOT_TINY_STREAM, indicates a corrupted system file that prevents Windows from booting. This typically happens when critical boot configuration data or the registry is damaged.
Ad

Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0xC0000226

  1. Boot from Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)

  2. Open Command Prompt

  3. Run SFC Scan

    Do not close the Command Prompt window until the scan completes.

  4. Run DISM Repair

  5. Check Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

    If you get an access denied error for fixboot, run 'bootsect /nt60 SYS' first.

  6. Restore Registry from Backup

    This will revert registry changes since last system backup. Proceed only if you have a recent restore point.
Ad

When to Call a Professional

If none of the steps resolve the error, your hard drive may be failing or the system partition is severely damaged. Consider professional data recovery and hardware diagnostics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Windows error 0xC0000226?
This error usually means a critical system file, such as the registry hive or a boot file, is corrupted. It can be caused by improper shutdowns, disk errors, or malware.
Can I fix error 0xC0000226 without losing data?
Yes, the steps above are designed to repair system files without affecting personal data. However, if the drive is failing, backup important data first.
What if I don't have a Windows installation USB?
You can create one from another working PC using Microsoft's Media Creation Tool. Alternatively, use a system repair disc if you have one.
Will a system restore fix this error?
A system restore may help if the error appeared after a recent change. Boot from recovery media and go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
Is this error related to boot configuration data (BCD)?
Yes, often the BCD is corrupted. Running bootrec commands as described in step 5 can rebuild it.

Related Error Codes