Microsoft Windows Error Code 0xC0000405: How to Fix It

Medium 30 minutes to 2 hours Critical Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
0xC0000405
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Critical
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30 minutes to 2 hours
Error code 0xC0000405 indicates heap corruption, meaning Windows detected damage in its memory management area. This can crash programs or even the entire system and is often caused by faulty software, drivers, or hardware issues like bad RAM.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0xC0000405

  1. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

    Do not close the Command Prompt during the scan.

  2. Check for Corrupted System Files with CHKDSK

    Back up important data before running chkdsk, as it can cause data loss in rare cases.

  3. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

  4. Update Drivers and Windows

    Avoid using third-party driver updaters; get drivers from official sources.

  5. Perform a Clean Boot

    After troubleshooting, reverse the changes to restore normal boot.

  6. Repair or Reinstall the Problematic Application

    Save any data from the app before uninstalling.

  7. Use System Restore

    Some installed programs may be removed after restore.

Parts You May Need

RAM stick
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RAM stick
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RAM stick
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RAM stick
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When to Call a Professional

If all software steps fail and Windows Memory Diagnostic shows hardware errors, consider professional help to replace RAM or other hardware components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes error 0xC0000405 in Windows?
This error is caused by heap corruption due to faulty software, corrupted system files, bad drivers, or failing hardware (especially RAM).
Can I fix error 0xC0000405 without reinstalling Windows?
Yes, most cases can be fixed with SFC/DISM, memory diagnostic, driver updates, or uninstalling problematic software. Reinstall is a last resort.
Is error 0xC0000405 a hardware or software issue?
It can be either. Software corruption is more common, but faulty RAM or storage drives can also trigger it. Run memory diagnostic and check disk to determine.
How to fix 0xC0000405 on Windows 10?
Follow the steps in this guide: run SFC, CHKDSK, memory diagnostic, update drivers, clean boot, and repair the affected app. These steps work for Windows 10 and 11.
Will a factory reset fix error 0xC0000405?
Yes, but only if the issue is software-related. Use 'Reset this PC' from Settings>Update & Security>Recovery. Choose 'Keep my files' or 'Remove everything'. This should resolve the error if hardware is fine.

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