- The 0xc00007b error usually appears when launching apps or games due to 32-bit vs. 64-bit conflicts, especially in programs like GTA V or Adobe tools.
- Fix the issue by restarting your PC, running the app as administrator, and updating or reinstalling Visual C++, .NET Framework, and DirectX.
- Ensure Windows is fully updated, all system components are installed correctly, and reinstall the app if the error persists.
If you’re trying to open an app or game and you see a pop-up saying “The application was unable to start correctly 0xc00007b”, it can be frustrating. This error often appears when launching popular software like GTA V, Photoshop, Adobe Premiere Pro, or even smaller Windows-based programs. The good news is — this problem is fixable with the right steps.
In this guide, we’ll break down what causes this error and show you simple, clear solutions that work for both Windows 11 and Windows 10 users.
What Does “The Application Was Unable to Start Correctly (0xc00007b)” Mean?
This error code 0xc00007b typically means that there’s a conflict between 32-bit and 64-bit software components. For example, you might be trying to run a 64-bit app using 32-bit system files, or the required runtime libraries might be missing or corrupted.
It’s one of the most common issues faced when launching games or software on Windows. The message usually reads:
The application was unable to start correctly (0xc00007b). Click OK to close the application.
Step-by-Step Fixes for “The Application Was Unable to Start Correctly (0xc00007b)”
1. Reboot Your PC
Sometimes, a simple restart can help clear temporary system glitches. Before diving into advanced fixes, restart your computer and try launching the app again.
2. Run the Application as Administrator
Some apps need admin access to run properly.
- Right-click on the app shortcut or .exe file
- Select “Run as administrator“
- See if the application still shows the error “The application was unable to start correctly 0xc00007b”
If it works, you can set it to always run as admin:
- Right-click → Properties → Compatibility tab → Check “Run this program as administrator” → Apply.
3. Install or Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables
A missing or corrupted C++ runtime is one of the most common causes of this error.
- Download from official Microsoft site: Visual C++ Redistributable Packages
- Install both x64 and x86 versions for your version of Windows
- Restart your PC after installation
This often resolves the application was unable to start correctly errors for games and heavy software.
4. Repair or Reinstall Microsoft .NET Framework
Corrupted or outdated .NET Framework files can trigger the 0xc00007b error.
- Open Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off
- Make sure .NET Framework 3.5 and .NET Framework 4.8 (or latest) are checked
- If already enabled, disable, restart, and enable again
- Or download the offline installer from Microsoft: Download .NET Framework
After install or repair, restart your PC and try opening the app again.
5. Reinstall the Problematic Application
If the application itself is corrupted or installed incorrectly:
- Uninstall it from Control Panel > Programs and Features
- Delete leftover folders in C:\Program Files or C:\Program Files (x86)
- Reinstall the app using the latest installer
This is especially helpful if you’re seeing “the application was unable to start correctly (0xc00007b)” only with one particular app or game.
6. Update DirectX
Many modern apps and games depend on DirectX to run. Missing or corrupted DirectX files often cause this error.
- Download the DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer from: Download DirectX
- Run the setup and follow on-screen instructions
- Restart your PC
This is very effective for gaming-related errors like with GTA V or Fortnite.
7. Run CHKDSK and SFC Scans to Fix System Files
Corrupted system files may also be behind the 0xc00007b issue. Use these built-in tools to repair them.
Run SFC (System File Checker):
- Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt → Run as Administrator
- sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan to complete and restart your PC
Run CHKDSK (Check Disk):
- Open Command Prompt as Admin again
- chkdsk C: /f /r /x
- Press Enter. If prompted to schedule on next restart, type Y and restart your computer.
This can fix any disk or file structure errors that cause the application was unable to start correctly 0xc00007b.
8. Use Dependency Walker (Advanced Check)
This is a more technical step, but helpful if you want to see exactly which .DLL file is causing the error.
- Download Dependency Walker: http://www.dependencywalker.com
- Load the problematic .exe file
- It will show missing or corrupted DLLs (often msvcp140.dll, etc.)
Based on the result, you can reinstall the specific C++ runtime or fix the DLL manually.
9. Install Latest Windows Updates
An outdated Windows build may lack required components.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
- Click Check for updates
- Install everything available
- Restart your system
Keeping Windows 10 or 11 fully updated ensures fewer compatibility issues and fewer chances of seeing “the application was unable to start correctly” errors.
FAQs
What causes the application was unable to start correctly 0xc00007b error?
This usually happens due to a mix of 32-bit and 64-bit software conflicts, missing Visual C++ redistributables, corrupt system files, or outdated DirectX/.NET components.
Can this error happen in games like GTA V?
Yes, the application was unable to start correctly (0xc00007b) is common with games like GTA V, Fortnite, or Call of Duty, especially if Visual C++ or DirectX is missing or mismatched.
Does reinstalling the app fix this issue?
In many cases, yes. But you should also reinstall Visual C++ Redistributables and update .NET to fix the root cause.
Is this a virus?
No, it’s not caused by malware. It’s a compatibility or system file issue. However, always keep your system secure and updated.
Do I need both x86 and x64 versions of Visual C++?
Yes. Even on 64-bit systems, many apps still use 32-bit runtime libraries. So install both versions.
Conclusion
The “the application was unable to start correctly 0xc00007b” error is annoying, but it’s not the end of the world. Most of the time, it boils down to mismatched DLL files or missing system runtimes like Visual C++ and .NET. By carefully applying the steps above, you should be able to fix this problem on Windows 10 or 11.
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