How to Fix the BSoD 0xc0000420 Error: 5 Quick Ways

To get rid of this BSoD error, uninstall incompatible software

4 min. read

Updated on April 12, 2024

updated on April 12, 2024

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The error code 0xc0000420 on Windows is a type of BSoD that indicates an unknown software exception. This error occurs when you try to run an application but instead of opening, your system crashes.

The exact cause of the BSoD error can vary but aside from corrupt or incompatible software, it can also be related to issues such as memory corruption, or driver problems.

How do I fix the 0xc0000420 error?

1. Uninstall the problematic application

Hit the Start Menu icon on the Taskbar and click on Settings.
Click on Apps on the left pane, then select Apps & features on the right pane.
Search for the app in question, click on the three ellipses, and select Uninstall.

After uninstallation, do a clean-up of software leftovers to get rid of all software components completely. While you’re still here, ensure that your computer’s hardware components, such as the RAM and hard drive, are functioning properly.

Faulty hardware can also cause system crashes. Use built-in diagnostic tools or third-party software to perform hardware tests like the memory test. If the problem persists, check for OS and driver updates to ensure your system is compatible with the new software.

2. Run DISM and SFC scans

Hit the Start Menu icon, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following commands and press Enter after each one:DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth sfc /scannow

3. Scan for viruses

Press the Windows key, search Windows Security, and click Open.
Select Virus & threat protection.
Next, press Quick scan under Current threats.
If you don’t find any threats, proceed to perform a full scan by clicking on Scan options just below Quick scan.
Click on Full scan, then Scan now to perform a deep scan of your PC.
Wait for the process to finish and restart your system.

Since the 0xc0000420 error is brought about by a corrupt installation, you can never be too sure whether malware snuck into your PC. Just to be sure, perform a comprehensive scan.

You can also run a reliable antivirus program to catch those that camouflage themselves and bypass Windows’ built-in security tool. For example, ESET HOME Security Essential allows you to perform a deep scan of your system and identify the malware that may have caused your issue, you can easily remove it and then keep your computer safe with its real-time scanning and shielding features.

⇒ Get ESET HOME Security Essential

4. Perform clean boot

Hit the Windows key, type msconfig, and open System Configuration.
Switch to the Services tab and select Hide all Microsoft services.
Click on the Disable all button, then hit the Apply button to save the changes.
Go back and click on the Startup tab, select Open Task Manager then click OK.
In the Startup tab of the Task Manager, Disable all the Enabled startup items.
Close Task Manager and restart your PC.

5. Perform a System Restore

Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open.
Select Large icons as View by and click Recovery.
Click Open System Restore.
Select Choose a different restore point and click Next.
Now select the restore point and click Next.
Click Finish to restore the previous settings, and Windows will restart.

Since most users reported that the issue started after installing new software or drivers, a System Restore can undo recent changes and help restore system stability.

While all the solutions we’ve provided are great starting points to resolve the 0xc0000420 error, they don’t guarantee a sure-bet resolution. An automatic BSoD fixer on the other hand can guarantee you a fix for this and others like 0x00000023 error effortlessly.

Since you can never forecast when a BSoD error will occur, we encourage you to trigger a BSoD error from time to time. Eventhough unorthodox, it’s better to catch problems before they render your system unusable.

That’s a wrap from us but do let us know if you’ve been able to fix this error in the comment section below.