Error window: "The application failed to initialize properly (0xc0000142)"

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Error window: "The application failed to initialize properly (0xc0000142)"

Anonymous

cmd and all programs that attempt to use the same protocol result in an error window, "The application failed to initialize properly (0xc0000142)". There is a hotfix for XP for this issue. Is there a similar hotfix for Vista/Win7 users? Yes, I have thoroughly scanned for malware using several different software packages. No, running in safemode and various other ideas to restore the system, similar to suggestions to XP users with this problem have not worked. No, I cannot pinpoint when this started so a restore far enough back does not appear to exist. My only other resort at this point is to wipe the system and reload - productivity death. So, is there a hotfix?

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

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Answer 1

Hi hrmayer,

a. Do you remember making any recent changes to your computer?

This error is usually a failure to initialize a DLL correctly. This could be because the file is corrupted, missing, or possible has been added to with malicious code.

Try opening the command prompt as an administrator by following this step and run a System File Checker Scan(SFC) on your computer.

SFC tool scans system files and replaces incorrect versions of the system files by using the correct versions.

To run the System File Checker tool, follow these steps:

1. Click Start, and then type cmd in the Start Search box.

2. Right-click cmd in the Programs list, and then click Run as administrator. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type your password or click Continue.

3. At the command prompt, the following line, and then press ENTER:

sfc /scannow

Check the below link for details:

How to use the System File Checker tool to troubleshoot missing or corrupted system files on Windows Vista or on Windows 7

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929833

Note: If you are not able to perform this step in Normal mode, boot into the Safe Mode and perform this step.

Safe mode starts Windows with a limited set of files and drivers. Startup programs don't run in safe mode, and only the basic drivers needed to start Windows are installed.

Refer this link to boot into Safe Mode:

Start your computer in safe mode**http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/Start-your-computer-in-safe-mode**

Regards,

Divya R – Microsoft Support.

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Error window: "The application failed to initialize properly (0xc0000142)"

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