Fix 0xc0000005: Access Violation Error (0xc0000005) (Windows)

The 0xc0000005 error, also known as an Access Violation error, is a common Windows issue. It signifies that a program or process attempted to access a memory location that it was not authorized to access. This can lead to application crashes, system instability, and sometimes even a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD).

🧐 Causes

This error can stem from a variety of sources, making pinpointing the exact cause sometimes challenging. Some of the most frequent culprits include:

• Corrupted System Files: Essential Windows files may have become damaged, leading to memory access problems.
• Faulty RAM: Issues with your computer’s Random Access Memory (RAM) are a significant cause of access violations.
• Driver Problems: Outdated, corrupted, or incompatible device drivers can cause conflicts and lead to memory errors.
• Malware or Virus Infections: Malicious software can interfere with system processes and corrupt memory.
• Software Conflicts: Two or more applications may be trying to access the same memory location simultaneously, leading to a conflict.
• Registry Errors: A corrupted Windows Registry can also contribute to memory access issues.
• Hardware Malfunctions: While less common, other hardware issues beyond RAM can sometimes trigger this error.

🔧 Fixes

Here are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the 0xc0000005 error. It’s recommended to try these in order, as simpler solutions are often effective.

1. Run System File Checker (SFC)

The SFC tool scans for and repairs corrupted Windows system files.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator. Search for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click on “Command Prompt,” and select “Run as administrator.”
2. Type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
3. Let the scan complete. If it finds and fixes any issues, restart your computer.

2. Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft frequently releases updates that include bug fixes and stability improvements which might resolve this error.

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click “Check for updates” and install any available updates.

3. Update or Reinstall Device Drivers

Outdated or corrupt drivers are a common cause. Focus on graphics card, network adapter, and chipset drivers.

1. Press Windows Key + X and select “Device Manager.”
2. Expand the categories and right-click on devices you suspect might be problematic (e.g., Display adapters, Network adapters).
3. Select “Update driver” and choose “Search automatically for drivers.”
4. If that doesn’t work, visit the manufacturer’s website for your specific hardware and download the latest drivers. You may need to uninstall the current driver first (right-click > Uninstall device) before installing the new one.

4. Scan for Malware

Use your antivirus software to perform a full system scan.

1. Ensure your antivirus software is up-to-date.
2. Run a comprehensive scan of your entire system.
3. Remove any detected threats and restart your computer.

5. Test Your RAM

Faulty RAM is a frequent culprit. Windows has a built-in memory diagnostic tool.

1. Search for “Windows Memory Diagnostic” in the Start menu and open it.
2. Select “Restart now and check for problems (recommended).”
3. Your computer will restart and run the diagnostic. This may take some time.
4. Upon reboot, Windows will display the results. If errors are found, you may need to replace your RAM modules.

6. Check for Software Conflicts

If the error started occurring after installing new software, try uninstalling it. You can also perform a clean boot to isolate the problematic application.

1. Search for “msconfig” in the Start menu and open “System Configuration.”
2. Go to the “Services” tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services,” and then click “Disable all.”
3. Go to the “Startup” tab, click “Open Task Manager,” and disable all startup items.
4. Restart your computer. If the error disappears, re-enable services and startup items one by one until you find the one causing the conflict.