How to Fix Blue Screen Error Code 0xC000021A in Windows 10/11?

When the Blue Screen Error Code 0xC000021A occurs in Windows, it typically results in the system failing to boot properly, often cycling through automatic repair attempts without success. This error code signifies a fatal system error caused by the Windows subsystem process, such as WinLogon or Client Server Runtime Subsystem (CSRSS), failing to operate correctly.

0xC000021A Blue Screen Error in Windows
0xC000021A Blue Screen Error in Windows Fix

A primary cause of this error is the corruption of system files, leading to the failure of important processes. Malware infections, improper software installations, or system crashes can all contribute to such corruption.

Furthermore, incorrect system configurations, often originating from improper installations or removals of software or hardware, or changes made by malware can make the OS unbootable. Among such issues, changes to the registry or boot configurations are also common reasons.

We have outlined several methods to solve this problem. Follow these steps one by one to permanently resolve the issue.

Important Step: Boot into WinRE

As our Windows cannot boot normally, we have to access the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) to perform troubleshooting.

WinRE is filled with tools capable of diagnosing and repairing numerous operating system issues. Boot from the Windows installation media to access WinRE, then proceed with the methods detailed below.

1. Reverse the Pending Actions

Initiating the reversal of pending actions essentially rolls back any incomplete operations, such as updates or installations, that may not have been fully integrated into the system. These unfinished processes can leave system files in a disrupted state, leading to instability and errors.

By using the DISM command to revert these actions, the system discards the uncompleted changes, potentially restoring stability and allowing a successful boot.

  1. Once in the recovery environment, navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options.
  2. Select Command Prompt from the Advanced Startup Options screen.
    Access the Command Prompt
    Access the Command Prompt
  3. Type the following command into the Command Prompt and press Enter. Replace “C:” with the appropriate drive letter if your operating system is installed elsewhere.
    dism /image:C:\ /cleanup-image /revertpendingactions
    Execute the entered command
    Execute the entered command

After executing the command, attempt to boot into Windows normally and check if the error has been resolved.

2. Run System Scans

These scans involve tools like the System File Checker (SFC) and the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) which can detect malicious software and restore any corrupted system files back to their original state.

This process is important as it helps in restoring the integrity of system files, thus enabling the OS to boot properly without encountering the error.

  1. Open the Command Prompt through the Advanced Options screen.
  2. Type the command below in Command Prompt and hit Enter:
    SFC /scannow
    Type sfc/scannow command
    Type sfc/scannow command
  3. Upon completion, execute the following command:
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    Restoring Damaged Windows Files
    Restoring Damaged Windows Files

The process may take some time; after completion, shut down the Command Prompt and reboot your computer normally to see if the issue has been fixed.

3. Revert the System to a Previous State

If you’ve encountered the error after a system change, such as new software or a driver update, you might resolve the error by reverting to a previous state without these changes, achieved through System Restore.

System Restore takes snapshots known as restore points of the system’s files and configurations, allowing you to roll back the system to an older, more stable state.

  1. From the Advanced Options screen, choose “System Restore“.
    Click on the System Restore option
    Click on the System Restore option
  2. Select a restore point created before the appearance of the stop code error, following the on-screen prompts.
    Deploy a system restore
    Deploy a system restore
  3. Allow the system restore process to complete, restart your computer, and check for resolution of the issue.

4. Check the Health of Your HDD

Hard drive problems, including bad sectors, a corrupted file system, disk firmware issues, or a faulty disk controller, can all cause this error.

CHKDSK is a built-in Windows utility that can scan for and fix disk errors or damage which could slow down the operating system’s boot process.

  1. Go to Command Prompt through the Advanced Options screen.
  2. Enter and run the following command:
    chkdsk /f /r
    Run the CHKDSK scan
    Run the CHKDSK scan
  3. If prompted to schedule the scan for the next boot because the disk is in use, type ‘Y’ for ‘Yes’ and hit Enter.
    Schedule a CHKDSK scan
    Schedule a CHKDSK scan
  4. Reboot your computer and let CHKDSK finish its scan. This could take time, depending on the size and content of your hard drive.

5. Perform a Clean Installation of Windows

If other troubleshooting methods fail, a clean installation of Windows may be necessary. It replaces all system files and configurations, fixing problems preventing normal OS booting, including software or driver conflicts, malware, or file corruption.

Note that a clean installation will erase your personal data and applications; hence, make sure you back up your data first through Safe Mode, before proceeding.

For a guide on performing a clean installation, visit Clean Install Windows 11 and Install Windows 10.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Zainab Falak


Zainab Falak is a highly educated professional with a background in actuarial science and a strong passion for technology. Her expertise lies in the field of data analytics and she is a proficient programmer in languages such as Python and R. At Appuals, Zainab shares her extensive knowledge of Windows 8, 10, and 11, covering a broad range of topics related to these operating systems. Zainab's ability to effectively communicate technical concepts in a clear and concise manner has earned her recognition and respect in the tech community. She is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the field and providing readers with insightful and informative content.

Comments

263
    BF
    Brad Friedlein Oct 14, 2015

    Hi,
    I have the same problem. Tried the steps above but when I pushed F7 it brought be back to the BSOD. I even tried restarting in safe mode but that didn’t work. Any other ideas?

    KL
    Kevin Lomas Nov 5, 2015

    Hi, I can’t even get step 1 to work, i’m on win 10 and did a system restore when my machine tried to restart I got this error code and now it just keeps trying to restart as if it’s on a loop, any help gratefully accepted

    PA
    pannna Nov 16, 2015

    Came across this problem after upgrading to win 10 from 8. And after a few more installations (office, printer, etc).
    It first asked for Bit locker key and after entering the key it went into 0xc000021a loops.
    Am trying different things mentioned online (sfc scan, command prompt> DISM move, reset, image recovery, manual booting).

    However no luck so far 🙁

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Nov 16, 2015

      Looks like you will need to do a clean re-install.

    PI
    pierre Dec 2, 2015

    Neither of the two proposed solutions work. I’ve tried everything I can think of and remain in the BSOD loop.

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Dec 2, 2015

      Are you able to boot into safe mode if you start with the installation media? If this is a desktop, i’d suggest removing the cd/dvd drive, and the wi-fi card/adapter it it’s external. Once you boot into the computer, there will be dmp file in C:windowsminidump which will have more details about the BSOD which we can diagnose. You’ll need to upload it to eQuestions.net

      Reply
    RG
    Ron G Dec 11, 2015

    This worked for me. It occurred after I have had Win10 running fine since it was released five months ago. Then, AVG did an update, and that’s what screwed it up. By following the F7 technique above, I got mine working find again. Also, WIn10 was attempting to update at the same time as AVG, so that may have caused it. It is fine now. System Restore did nothing.

    SC
    Samuel W. Coleman Dec 11, 2015

    Hello, neither of the proposed solutions worked, I have even looked up on all other possible solutions but none of them seemed to work, even with command prompt, any better ideas anyone?

    MF
    Meisha Flemmins Dec 13, 2015

    this helped me and was much more thorough.

    MS
    Mohd Salleh Dec 17, 2015

    Hello, I have tried the first method. Unfortunately, it does not seem to work at all. Once I pressed f7 my pc restarted but the problem still remains.

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Dec 17, 2015

      Can you ask this as a new question on eQuestions.net/ask so i can assist you directly.

      RA
      Rasmus Dec 17, 2015

      It’s the same I have, did you find out what it was?

        KA
        K. Arrows Author Dec 17, 2015

        If you guys can provide detailed description – i’ll be able to assist.

    MJ
    Mike James Dec 17, 2015

    Hello Kevin.. Running Windows 10. I have this error problem. I am thinking of loading Windows 7 from disc and then, try and load 10 again… Is this doable? Will the “problem Windows 10” allow this? Thanks for your help

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Dec 17, 2015

      I am sure that a clean installation will fix it. However, since it has already been upgraded, you can try a clean install of Windows 10. If you can boot to advanced mode, then use the features listed to this other create a bootable windows 10 disc using rufus, and then boot from it to re-install. When you do this, you will not have to re-enter license keys since it is already updated. http://appuals.com/create-windows-10-bootable-usb-with-rufus/ – Do let me know the results as i am keeping track of this issue to help others by noting down solutions that worked.

        MJ
        Mike James Dec 17, 2015

        Thank-you

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Dec 17, 2015

          Make sure you take a full backup of your important data before performing a clean install.

    FD
    frank discussion Dec 21, 2015

    #1 did not work 4 me. #2 resulted in “Windows Resource Protection could not perform the requested operation.”
    Previously, I reset the PC. Then, I found where restoration is off by default(!), so turned it on. The next restart, it happened again, and the fourth (the oldest) restore worked. But, here we are again! As I’ve just moved, finding install discs is a PITA. Thanks a bunch, Microsoft…NOT!!!
    Even worse: now there are no System Restore points, either. Not just about this “not ready for prime time” case, but Microsoft should spin off it’s OS division into a separate company, maybe their overall reliability as well as simplicity would both improve.

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Dec 21, 2015

      Have you tried booting into safe mode?

        FD
        frank discussion Dec 26, 2015

        KEven worse now. Not only can I not boot into safe mode, but I don’t get the advanced options screen, either. I’m in a quandary.

    YO
    Yommss Dec 23, 2015

    Windows is just a crap now.. It just turn bad alone..

    DU
    Dustin Dec 26, 2015

    How are we supposed to follow a link to run a scan on a PC that won’t boot

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Dec 26, 2015

      You will need to create installation media for your Operating System to boot from it. BUT what exactly is the issue you’re having?

    DL
    David L Jan 3, 2016

    Hello, I am getting this same error code, the only thing that the computer will do is restart over and over, it will not allow me to get into anything else, restore mode will not come on either, it shows on the screen for a brief second, then the blue screen shows up again, and restarts. it will not even let me do anything with boot cd, its like its not even there.
    please help

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Jan 3, 2016

      Are you able to get into advanced options?

    LG
    Lynn Pinti-Gomez Jan 4, 2016

    I am having this problem as well, and I own a Cyber Cafe. The problem is with my master computer and the only way of fixing it was to refresh/reboot. I have done this 4 times over the past month (very frustrating). On the last time, I used Method #1, which worked. My question is this….if my computer shuts off unexpectedly or I do a restart, this is when I get the error code. If I shut down, the computer is fine when I turn it back on. If I did Method #1, has the problem been permanently fixed? or will this error come up again upon a restart? (I’m afraid to try) Thank you.

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Jan 4, 2016

      I suggest you try to find out and turn off windows updates.

        LG
        Lynn Marie Pinti-Gomez Jan 25, 2016

        I just had this problem come up again, even after I believed I turned off updates….how can I permanently turn off updates or Permanently repair this issue. I can’t keep reinstalling Windows every couple of weeks! Help me please!

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Jan 25, 2016

          Go to services.msc, locate Windows Update service, right click on it and choose properties, and set it to disabled.

          LG
          Lynn Marie Pinti-Gomez Jan 25, 2016

          ok, now that I’ve done that…how can I find the actual update that was causing the error? (btw, I had to reinstall Windows yet again) I know that disabling updates will be a problem in the future, as some things need to be updated, so what do I do about that?

    JE
    Jessica Jan 5, 2016

    I had this error come up about a month ago after accidentally hitting keys on my computer, but I was able to fix it with a system restore. All of a sudden, it happened again after what appears to have been a Windows update last night while in sleep mode. System restore won’t work, and neither will hitting F7 in the advanced options. I’m not sure what I need to do since I don’t have Windows 10 on backup. If I download it and re-install 10, will all of my files get deleted or will everything be okay?

    MW
    Mark Whitbread Jan 6, 2016

    So on trying this I just get the blue screen again saying it needs to restart after gathering error data. I’m being told now I will probably have to uninstall and reinstall losing files. Any other successes, I’ll be watching.

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Jan 6, 2016

      If you can boot to safe mode, then you copy the files over to the USB. You can also attempt a system restore to a point when the system was actually working without the error through advanced mode.

    AB
    Alen Brandizzi Jan 13, 2016

    o have stucked 5 days with this problem of winload.efi error or error 0xc000021a and tried rapidly this solution without sucess, but today i did it step by step
    1) re-start pressing shit button. (and Os selection show up)
    2) using tab in second screen to select other options of boot
    3) disabling driver signature.
    4) my windows 10 start again.
    5 ) im doing now an sfc/ scannow to check erros in admin mode.

    thanks . i have a Sony vaio without recovery working

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Jan 13, 2016

      In the Bios settings -> Boot -> Secure boot options

      => Set Secure Boot option to “Disabled”

      Reply
        AB
        Alen Brandizzi Jan 13, 2016

        doesnt work to me

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Jan 13, 2016

          Okay. Do SFC Scan and upload CBS.LOG file to equestions.net/ask in a new question so i can assist.

    MH
    Michel Hayek Jan 17, 2016

    I have the error 0xc00021a…. I can’t reset my pc, I can’t go back to a previous build, I cant do a system restore, I cant boot with disabled secure boot, I tried everything….I cant boot in safe mode …please help 🙁

    US
    Uil_en_spiegel Jan 19, 2016

    At my last automatic updates with Win 10 I got a blue screen of death along with error. The killer was error 0xc000021A. After consulting a Pc nerd I was adviced to begin browsing and to search for a solution. At last I came on this page. In a minimum of time I got the device back on te rails again. The bug was fixed fast and well. Btw. at this same moment my mouse gave up, dead. I was mislead and confused by it , so I thought after the correction I had done wrong something but ….a new mouse showed me everything was OK. Tx Kevin for your support with this bothersome problem.

    PA
    Pavan Feb 3, 2016

    Even i got the same problem .I did all the steps as u said .Its restarting but again got the problem wat should i do ?

    PA
    Pavan Feb 3, 2016

    Even i got the same problem .I did all the steps as u said .Its restarting but again got the problem wat should i do ?

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Feb 3, 2016

      If this solution did not work, then you would need to do a clean install.

    KA
    Karim Feb 14, 2016

    I tried both solutions but don’t work for me .. I’ve to install fresh copy of windows every day! What may be the problem?

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Feb 15, 2016

      After installing the fresh copy, disable windows updates.

    PA
    patti Feb 16, 2016

    I need help. Got the blue screen. (then before i checked here) i tried a system reset. Now it tried to back up files- it stopped and a screen came up that said files could not be read it left a screen that asked me to terminate???? I am a computer dummy, please help.

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Feb 17, 2016

      You will need to reinstall Windows

    SR
    Shena May Ria Feb 20, 2016

    Hi. Is it normal that after preasing F7 the screen turned black and until now it’s black. Please help. My laptop is not turning on now after pressing F7.

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Feb 20, 2016

      No, it is not normal for it to go black. Try rebooting it.

        SR
        Shena May Ria Feb 20, 2016

        Should i retry the process? Should fn button be pressed together with F7? Can’t press F7 alone.

        SR
        Shena May Ria Feb 20, 2016

        Should i repeat the process sir?

        SR
        Shena May Ria Feb 20, 2016

        Should fn button be pressed together with the F7 button? I can’t select F7 alone.

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Feb 20, 2016

          You cannot use it with Fn. Try pressing 7 only.

          SR
          Shena May Ria Feb 20, 2016

          It don’t work with F7 only. I have a x200m asus notebook and i don’t think pressing Fs alone would
          work.

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Feb 20, 2016

          try pressing number 7 key only.

    SH
    shailendra Feb 20, 2016

    i had tried both the method but it is still not working

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Feb 21, 2016

      I beleive the solution to fix issue in your case would be to do a factory reset or a clean reinstall of Windows 10.

    DW
    Danny wigs Apr 1, 2016

    What if my pc won’t turn on how do I fix this then?

    JD
    John Decker Apr 14, 2016

    How exactly do i do a complete reinstall – I’ve tried the above options and others and can’t get anything going – i downloaded the windows 10 to a disc I think but the computer wouldn’t boot from the disc – but then again – i’m clueless to some of the in depth details – any set of instructions on exactly how to do a complete clean reinstall? thanks

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Apr 14, 2016

      Did you extract and burn the iso file to the disc?

        JD
        John Decker Apr 14, 2016

        i don’t think i did it correctly – can you help me out on the process?

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Apr 14, 2016

          1. Download the Windows 10 ISO File.
          2. The download Rufus

          OR Download Media Tool from Microsoft site, download the ISO and then burn it to the usb.

          3. Burn the ISO to the USB or Disc.
          4. Boot your system to BIOS and change the boot order to the boot media.

          If you have access to a usb and a 2nd computer, i can remotely do this for you.

          JD
          John Decker Apr 14, 2016

          i am on my laptop at work now – that would be awesome, i’d appreciate it very much

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Apr 14, 2016

          when can we connect

          JD
          John Decker Apr 15, 2016

          sorry didn’t get a chance to get back to you – got busy yesterday
          i’ll try to download it this morning

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Apr 15, 2016

          sure.

          JD
          John Decker Apr 15, 2016

          i think i got it done correctly – i’ll probably see if i can use the disc tonight and see if it works – thanks for the help – i’ll post up results

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Apr 15, 2016

          thanks

          JD
          John Decker Apr 18, 2016

          the iso disc worked – took a few hours for everything to work through – but so far after spending several hours putting software back on – moving files where I want them the computer and OS seem to be working fine – very time consuming – for those contemplating a fresh new clean install – all your files will be saved in a “windows.old” folder so you won’t lose anything, at least I didn’t

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Apr 18, 2016

          thanks for letting me know.

    LA
    LaLa Apr 19, 2016

    I have a Lenovo Laptop, Windows 10. I TRIED this fix but it still takes me back to the error screen. I also tried to do this but doing Safe mode with the Command Prompt so I can do the scan but it stills goes right back to error screen. PLEASE HELP.

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Apr 21, 2016

      You will have to reinstall Windows.

    BI
    Bidbod Apr 23, 2016

    Hiya. First off, thank you for providing detailed, concise info on how to deal with this problem.

    I’m trying to install my OS on a new laptop. For testing, the company put a temporary version of Win 10 on there and i’m trying to format the drive and install my own version on it.

    I’ve got an official, verified version of Win 10. When i tell the laptop to boot from the CD drive i get about 10 seconds of the buffering sign, followed by the BSOD and the message “Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart.” It then gets caught in a restart loop until i just let it go to the test version of Win.

    I tried restarting it with the driver signature enforcement disabled but i get the option to boot from the disk before it gives me a chance to disable that particular thing so i’m not sure how to disable that before attempting the install.

    I’ve also ran an SFC scan, although when i try to look at the .txt log for the scan it’s just an empty notepad file. And when i attempt to repair the corrupt system files i get the following:
    “Error: 87
    The online/cleanup-image/restorehealth option is unknown.
    For more information, refer to the help by running DISM.exe/?.
    The DISM log file can be found at C:WINDOWSLOGSDISMdism.log”

    However the second time i ran the SFC scan i got the message: “Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations”

    I then restarted and tried to install from the disc but got the bsod with the same error.

    Can you offer any advice on how to do clean install please? Kind of at my wits end with this.

    Thanks in advance

    DN
    Dulal Nandy Apr 24, 2016

    my keyboard doesnt seem to function and i am unable to select f7 from startup settings. pl require urgent help

    DN
    Dulal Nandy Apr 24, 2016

    neither enter key works which will take me back to os as listed. unable to do anything with the pc. data inside which is urgently reqd

    DN
    Dulal Nandy Apr 24, 2016

    when i go for sfc scan gives me a message system repair pending to go back restart and run sfc again. the keyboard works now and accepts text in command prompt. need to recover the system urgent. I tried to reinstall windows from installation CD but it doesnt go to the mode as keyboard now aagain doesnt respond. it responded only in command prompt. pl help

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Apr 25, 2016

      Go to bios, and reset it to defaults. Then try reinstalling via USB.

    DR
    DR May 6, 2016

    This information saved me!! Clear and easy to understand with the pictures of the steps! Thank you!

    IS
    Infinitus Scientiam May 13, 2016

    Still doesn’t help me:

    The problem goes like this:

    A
    1.) Windows update runs automatically and without any ability to pick and choose what to update;
    2.) Windows boots, dies on blue screen, saying error “0xc000021a”
    3.) Computer restarts, then the troubleshooting options is taken, this is followed, and restart with driver signature disabled.
    4.) Windows crashes again at boot. Blue screen, saying error “0xc000021a”

    B
    1.) I now use system restore instead from trouble shooting.
    2.) System restore works, and it was back before the auto updates are installed
    3.) but since it’s windows forces auto updates and installs all updates without you having the ability to pick and choose – it installs the same thing that crashed the laptop in the first place.
    4.) After enjoying the short life of your OS, you restart, to find windows is auto updating again.
    5.) Windows boots, dies on blue screen, saying error “0xc000021a”
    6.) Repeat B.1 and loop this process.

      KA
      K. Arrows Author May 13, 2016

      Do a system restore whilst the PC is disconnected from the internet. After the system restore, go to Windows Updates, and change settings to choose what to install.

      Reply
        IS
        Infinitus Scientiam Aug 2, 2016

        I actually found a fix somewhere else where it instructed me to download this windows 10 windows update-picker, where you can pick and choose which update you want. It was developed by Microsoft. It’s funny that this feature is just some third-party download that is not included build in to windows 10. This add-on for windows update just helped me a lot. What a nonsense from Microsoft as if they realised their fault later on.

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 2, 2016

          I’d like to update my guide with your fix. How did you conclude that you needed to hide / uninstall an update? If you can send me a detailed guide, that will be helpful.

    KK
    Kacper Kaliszczak May 18, 2016

    Will the first solution delete all files or kep them?

      KA
      K. Arrows Author May 18, 2016

      no. what makes you think it will?

    BM
    Bharat Mittal May 23, 2016

    ok…. i read various methods and solution to start my pc from solutions provided by you
    and i tried all of them
    1) restarting pc is not helping, then
    2) troubleshooting via restore point is not working (system restore is completed to 100% and when it restart the PC, it leads to same error)
    3) i have system recovery but it’s not working
    4) system reset is also not successful
    5) i got your suggestion to change startup setting and i tried one after another, all the option’s from F1 to F10 but all in vain
    6) last option was cmd, but sfc/scannow leads to (when i go for sfc scan gives me a message system repair pending to go back restart and run sfc again) error

    now i left with the option of fresh installation of windows but the problem is that, i had a bootable disk of genuine windows 7 which i upgraded to windows 10 and now i don’t have any bootable disk of win 10 and windows 7 cd is not working over win 10
    plz suggest some solution.

    thanks in advace

      GR
      Greg Jul 28, 2016

      The Win 10 key is in your bios, just install win10 from the free official microsoft ISO and you’ll see your Windows will be activated.

      Reply
    AM
    a.m Jun 2, 2016

    If I boot my pc will be deleted all my fies.

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Jun 2, 2016

      If you reset and choose to delete files, only then they will be deleted.

    NB
    Neha Bagri Jun 9, 2016

    After doing all the steps it is still loading the blue screen. Please help

    JT
    João Pedro Torres Jun 22, 2016

    Just thank you!

    HI
    Hien Jun 26, 2016

    I used to reset my PC and it’s okay. However, it still appear the blue screen of death again and again & i didnt see any advance option. Please help me.

    KC
    Kshitij Chandra Jun 28, 2016

    I selected the recovery and It says an error of0xc000021a and when I press enter it shows that a file is missing winload.efi and it shows that to go back to startup setting press f8 and tried many times by pressing f8 and f8 + fn but the screen won’t go to startup setting and it is stuck in recovery

    RI
    Ria Jun 28, 2016

    I followed the steps for method 1and my pc starts and all works great.But when i close it and restart it stil happens. Should i follow method 2 or do i miss something after step 5 in method 1?

    MM
    Mark Molloy Jun 29, 2016

    Hi I’m also receiving this error tried pushing the f7 option it’s not working.

    MK
    max kid Jul 26, 2016

    It does not give me the option for disabling Driver Signature enforcement it does not even show me the option to enable safe mode. I am on a hp 15 notebook Pc windows 10. I can nor even reach the login screen

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Jul 27, 2016

      Which screen are you able to reach?

        MK
        max kid Jul 27, 2016

        I used to be able to reach the advanced options and troubleshooting page. As of later today I am now stuck on a black screen after the windows logo with the words under it

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Jul 27, 2016

          Reboot and interrupt 3 times, at the logo screen.
          Make sure no external devices/usbs are connected.

    BK
    Brandon Koerner Jul 30, 2016

    I tried fixing this error by booting by disabling driver signature enforcement and it didnt work. Booting in safe mode does not work and spits out the same error code. I tried working in console with sfc.exe /scannow but I keep getting the same output: “Windows … could not perform the operation …”

    I am running Windows 10 and during a system update, everything went wrong. My pc is custom- built with the ASRock BIOS.

    AB
    AB Jul 30, 2016

    I tried 2. But it didn’t work. I can’t reach my desktop to try 1 and 3. What to do?

    PA
    Patty Aug 8, 2016

    Hi, I am totally not a computer genius so I have to ask this question, how do I get by the blue screen of death to do these fixes?

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Aug 9, 2016

      So when you start it does it goes directly to the error screen?

    ST
    Stephanie Aug 9, 2016

    I can’t get past the blue screen of death step 3 isn’t working and I can’t get past the blue screen to try 1 or 3?? Please help

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Aug 10, 2016

      Take all external devices out of your system, reboot the PC three times, and interrupt the 3 reboot times to boot into the advanced mode. Once in advanced mode, disable driver signatures and then try.

      Reply
    MN
    mr nk Aug 11, 2016

    I tried solution 2 which did not work for me. Please my machine won’t even boot how am I to download and use reimage? I have been without my machine for too long now

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Aug 11, 2016

      Tell me what the final screen is that you can get to?

    CC
    christophe cousin Aug 12, 2016

    I have had this oxc000021a several time on windows 8 and had to send to shop 3 time for recovery the same issue i tried all options now got upgrade windows 10 and again stop code memory managment then blue death screen same error code oxc000021a. I am so tired i have a 30 months old asus ultrabook S550C pleasehelp can it be hardware issues? My com had mother board change and hard drive crash and chane 3 months ago i am desperate

    VE
    Vee Aug 12, 2016

    Hi there! This is the first time this issue has happened and I am still unsure how to proceed. The first thing that shows is the black screen with the hp logo and right after it shows the blue screen then returns to the black, then blue and so on. What should I do? Thank you!

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Aug 12, 2016

      Reboot the system three times, and before the blue screen appears shut it down using the Power button. The aim is to interrupt the process, such that the Windows should boot into the Advanced Mode. Once it goes to the advanced mode, choose Troubleshoot -> Automatic Repair and repair the system.

      Reply
    JU
    Juhstn Aug 12, 2016

    Hi, Kevin. I tried all your methods to fix my computer, but they didn’t work. Do you think you can help? Thanks!

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Aug 12, 2016

      Can you try the steps i have given to christophe cousin

        JU
        Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

        I’m not sure how to put my computer in advanced mode. It’s already at the blue screen and I can click “Advanced options”. Do I just need to type this in “Command Prompt”?

        bootrec /fixmbr

        bootrec /fixboot

        bootrec /rebuildbcd

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          Click Advanced Options, then choose Troubleshoot and then choose Command Prompt.
          Also tell me if there was an update that was installed before the issue started?

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          The Windows Anniversary update was installed before this happened, but that was a couple of days before. My screen froze one day so I decided to shut it down and now this is occurring. Anyways, I finished the last command, but by reboot does that mean just press the power button and shut it down? Sorry, I’m really bad at this stuff.

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          press the esc key, and there should be an option to reboot.

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          I pressed esc and nothing pops up.

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          click the X to cross it out.

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          I don’t get what you mean by that.

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          Can you take a picture of the screen and attach it here?

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          Yes

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          There is a red x on the top left of the command prompt, click it and then click “Continue” / exit and continue to Windows 10

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          It ended up taking me back here. 🙁

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          Go to Advanced Options -> Troubleshoot -> Startup Settings -> Restart
          After it restarts, press 7 (disable driver signature)

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          It took me back to the same place. 🙁

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          Troubleshoot -> Advanced Options -> System Restore -> Select your User Account -> type the password -> choose a restore point to the time when it was working fine.

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          “No restore points have been created on your computer’s system drive.” I’m sorry nothing is working. :((

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          Do you see an option in Troubleshoot to Go Back to the Previous Build?

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          Yes.

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          I think I remember trying this and it failed, but I’ll try and see.

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          Please try and let me know.

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          Didn’t work. 🙁

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          Go to command prompt, and do the following:
          Step 1: Type
          cd WindowsSystem32Config

          Step 2: Copy

          copy BCD-Template Temp and Press Enter

          copy COMPONENTS Temp and Press Enter

          copy DEFAULT Temp and Press Enter

          copy SAM Temp and Press Enter

          copy SECURITY Temp and Press Enter

          copy SOFTWARE Temp and Press Enter

          copy SYSTEM Temp and Press Enter

          STEP 3

          ren BCD-Template BCD-Template.bak and Press Enter

          ren COMPONENTS COMPONENTS.bak and Press Enter

          ren DEFAULT DEFAULT.bak and Press Enter

          ren SAM SAM.bak and Press Enter

          ren SOFTWARE SOFTWARE.bak and Press Enter

          ren SECURTY SECURITY.bak and Press Enter

          ren SYSTEM SYSTEM.bak and Press Enter

          STEP 4
          copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackBCD-Template C:WindowsSystem32ConfigBCD-Template and Press Enter

          copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackCOMPONENTS C:WindowsSystem32ConfigCOMPONENTS and Press Enter

          copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackDEFAULT C:WindowsSystem32ConfigDEFAULT and Press Enter

          copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackSAM C:WindowsSystem32ConfigSAM and Press Enter

          copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackSECURITY C:WindowsSystem32ConfigSECURITY and Press Enter

          copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackSOFTWARE C:WindowsSystem32ConfigSOFTWARE and Press Enter

          copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackSYSTEM C:WindowsSystem32ConfigSYSTEM and Press Enter

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          It didn’t work. 🙁

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          You mean, you cannot get to advanced mode?

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          Ugh sorry I accidentally double posted–said I didn’t post it.
          Anyways, I typed the first command and it says “The system cannot find the path specified.”

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 13, 2016

          You will need to create a bootable Windows 10 media, and boot the system using the media. Then repair the system, using the installation disc. See steps here: http://appuals.com/create-windows-10-bootable-usb-with-rufus/

          I will be logging off for today. Let me know how it goes.

          JU
          Juhstn Aug 13, 2016

          I can’t do that. Anyways, I thank you so so so much for giving up your time to help me. I really appreciate that. I’ll figure out a way….hopefully. Once again I can’t thank you enough. 🙂

    LC
    Liam Child Aug 21, 2016

    I was presented with the error code 0xc000021a on my laptop – The blue screen of death comes on to the screen everytime the computer boots up and woldnt allow me back in to windows – i tried using the second step above and it hasnt worked – i have also tried the turn ur computer on and off several times as it boots up . at times the computer will “diagnose” itself and then say “automatic repair” but even after that just takes me straight ack on to the blue screen – i dont know what to do im at the end of my rope HELPPPPP

    LC
    Liam Child Aug 21, 2016

    I was presented with the error code 0xc000021a on my laptop – The blue screen of death comes on to the screen everytime the computer boots up and woldnt allow me back in to windows – i tried using the second step above and it hasnt worked – i have also tried the turn ur computer on and off several times as it boots up . at times the computer will “diagnose” itself and then say “automatic repair” but even after that just takes me straight ack on to the blue screen – i dont know what to do im at the end of my rope HELPPPPP MEEEEEE PLEASEEEEE

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Aug 22, 2016

      Could you tell me how it started, what exactly happened?

        LC
        Liam Child Aug 22, 2016

        the computer was on and it froze completely then just crashed

        LC
        Liam Child Aug 22, 2016

        my little sister was using it – the computer lagged and she banged the keyboard but not very hard because it suddenly froze and then it just crashed – ever since its just been a blue screen that will not let me log on

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 22, 2016

          Does it gives you an option to go to Advanced Mode?

          LC
          Liam Child Aug 22, 2016

          Sometimes when i turn it on it loads then goes straight to blue screen gives me the error code and tells me that it needs to restart – It does then goes to an automatic repair… diagnosing your pc .. tells me it didnt start properly and gives me the advanced options

          LC
          Liam Child Aug 22, 2016

          Following this it gives the options to continue, turn off pc, use a device or troubleshoot .. when you press troubleshoot it says refresh pc, reset pc or advanced options.

          LC
          Liam Child Aug 22, 2016

          Then its system restore, command prompt, system image recovery, firmware settings, start up repair, start up settings

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 22, 2016

          Choose System Restore, and tell me if there is a Restore Point available (for the date when it was working fine)?

          LC
          Liam Child Aug 22, 2016

          says no system restore points have been created on your computer systems drive

          KA
          K. Arrows Author Aug 22, 2016

          Do you have any important data on this system? If not, then you can do a reset.

          LC
          Liam Child Sep 1, 2016

          Hi sorry i have been away with work – Ok so after resetting the PC it made things worse – Now the PC comes on does a blue screen again as normal.. restarts and then gives a new error code 0xc0000001

          LC
          Liam Child Sep 1, 2016

          After 0xc0000001 error comes on the screen the system just shuts off completely

          BN
          Brad Newman Sep 23, 2016

          she slammed on the keyboard which made your hard drive go bad.

    DA
    daniloperetti Aug 30, 2016

    Hi Kevin Arrows,

    Really thank you about this article, it resolved my problem!!!

    I was using months ago a notebook Asus K52F with w10 Windows 10 when it stopped with this 0xc000021a. I began to use Linux Mint Live CD since it (recommended). But today I needed to resolve it when I saw your page. It worked when I did “…you have to boot it using force drivers to have signature disabled option available inside Advanced Boot Options”. It worked like a charm! Automatic I turned off internet wireless after it, see below why.

    I saw to the link https://www.asus.com/us/support/FAQ/1016000
    What I could understand Asus can stop from hibernation/sleep because sometimes after update windows 10 changes Intel Management Engine Interface driver, resulting a a compatibility error. Then it recommended to download and change the driver.

    I will do it. I hope that it can help others

    Bye!

      KA
      K. Arrows Author Sep 1, 2016

      Most welcome.

    VA
    Vaibhav Sep 10, 2016

    Hello Kevin,
    I tried method 2. Not working. Comes back to the blue screen.
    How do I use method 1 or method 3? The PC does not start & hence I cannot Download and run Reimage Plus or run a full SFC scan

    Would be grateful for your advice.

    DT
    Darrell Tagbago Sep 14, 2016

    I carefully followed your instructions. It didn’t work. Can I try it over and over until it gets fixed?

    DT
    Darrell Tagbago Sep 14, 2016

    I did method do. I did all the instructions written but it still didn’t work. I think the 2nd method is the easiest one to do.

    JB
    John Bateman Sep 23, 2016

    I attempted all of these, but none of them worked. The same error happened if I booted with disabled driver signature enforcement, and the SFC scan stopped at 100% verification, and said “Windows resource protection could not perform the requested operation.” Does anybody know a fix? Thanks!

    VA
    Vaibhav Oct 17, 2016

    Hello Kevin,
    I tried method 2. Not working. Comes back to the blue screen.
    How do I use method 1 or method 3? The PC does not start & hence I cannot Download and run Reimage Plus or run a full SFC scan

    KA
    KALM Oct 19, 2016

    Nothing is working. I can’t get to my log in screen. I have tried a system restore. I have tried to wipe my hard drive clear and reinstall windows. I have even just tried cleaning up my hard drive and it keeps telling me it didn’t work and no changes were made. All of this BTW from the blue screen.

    HA
    HaliDuff Oct 21, 2016

    @appuals:disqus Hi, I got the Blue Screen, 0xc000021a. Can not get back to my login screen anymore. (The original crash happened when logging into my profile…lagged and i rebooted and got blue screen)
    Goes to basic text and says “Reboot and Select proper Boot device”
    Tried option 2 to fix, didn’t work.
    New blue screen with Stop Code : CRITICAL PROCESS DIED
    Got back to Advanced options,
    Tried going back to previous build, thank process failed.
    Goes to basic text and says “Reboot and Select proper Boot device”
    Go into my BIOS and now my SSD is now showing up in as a boot option, only my other hdd in Sata 2 port. Windows 10 is installed on the ssd.

    I have read through most of the comments and can’t find anyone with my issues. Any advice based on my issues? Thanks.

    SA
    sagar Oct 24, 2016

    It didn’t work!

    KA
    Kateyy Oct 25, 2016

    My laptop only loads hp wif a black screen what can I do

    RP
    Robert P Nov 11, 2016

    Kevin, thanks for a great article. I’m trying to fix the 0xc000021A on a customer’s PC. I have tried all of the steps except the last one because my customer does not have a backup of their stuff…
    Method #1 won’t work since I can’t connect to the drive using another PC. I have scanned the drive with a “Kangaroo” and it tested good, I have tried to connect the drive to another PC but it only gives me an error saying the drive needs to be formatted due to an unrecognizable file system (!) It’s as if the MBR records are majorly screwed up
    Method #2 just comes back with the same error.
    Method #3 SFC runs to 100% and gives an error like John Bateman stated below.
    Method #4 did not work, same thing.
    Method #5 I don’t have a backup of the registry (or anything else…) So, unless I can copy the system32config files from another pc and just cross my fingers, that won’t work either.
    My customer is VERY afraid of losing their data and I’m not going to wipe the drive and re-install if there is a chance it can be saved.What in the world am I suppose to do now? Any ideas at all..?

    JE
    Jess Nov 16, 2016

    When i try the last step 9, copy the files from the RegBack to config. It says the file cannot be copied onto itself. Help? (btw cp was not a recognized command) had to use “copy”

    JP
    Jacob Peone Dec 7, 2016

    Just tried fix 5. everything works great until the cp command . after which I get the message cp is not recognized as an internal or external command, operable program or batch file. is there an alternate command for windows 8 ?

    FD
    Feleshia W Dortch Dec 17, 2016

    Hello. I need serious help. I’m not a tech at all. I know basic know how but nothing about fixing this. I’m not getting an option to select anything under Method 2. I have the options but no way of selecting anything under startup option. I have an Asus laptop.

    SP
    Shail Preet Jan 4, 2017

    Thanks Kevin sir,
    My laptop went under Method # 2 and it started. First it was showing a death window but after following the methods discussed above, it started a automatic repair and my lappy started.Is there anything more I should do next? I think the thing caused due to third party application when I was changing the visuals of Windows to that me of Mac.Please leave a suggestion.

    BB
    Benny Boop Jan 16, 2017

    I have the same issue. Should the files in the backup hive files have .old at the end?

    BB
    bok bok Feb 28, 2017

    windows 7 is the best

    R1
    Rodia 15 Jul 16, 2017

    How can you tell if it’s the hard drive?

    KA
    kavita Jul 17, 2017

    method#2 isnt working for my laptop. please help

    אל
    אלישוש ל Aug 12, 2017

    seems method 2 worked! was about to buy new pc; can’t thank you enough!

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Aug 14, 2017

    Can you get to Advanced Mode and do a reboot? Repeatedly interrupt the reboot 2 or 3 times, and it will auto boot into Advanced Mode. From there, do a system restore to the point when everything worked perfectly.

      NA
      Navilicous Sep 5, 2017

      Tried and failed. Its not the boot which goes on endlessly it goes over to the repair and advanced troubleshooting instantly. No prob though im getting a new pc so ill just reset my pc and install a new installation of windows.

    GS
    Grit Schade Sep 6, 2017

    I have the error with HP workstation and nothing worked, aalos not to bbot from an USB. how shouldI than run the tool you recommend, if the laptop doesn’t access the USB. I’m not a PC freak and have no further idea. Please help

    JA
    Jason Sep 25, 2017

    I got this error after a fresh format of the HDD & a fresh install of windows 10. So every site I have found online so far, have useless info because none fit the issue I am having. And everything that I could try is not working at all. Any help would be greatly appreciated thanks

    BR
    brownin329 Oct 11, 2017

    thank you so very much! my computer came back using method #2. now if I could only get my chrome to work, (which is what caused the problem in the first place), I’d be all set.

    TH
    Thomas Hamer Oct 19, 2017

    Hi kevin i cant see the one i need i cant get on to my laptop at all i only have BSOD it wont start in safe mode just get the blue screen can you help please

    JK
    Jeff Kaski Nov 7, 2017

    If getting error on image build, F8, run diskpart, select disk 0, clean, exit, exit, reboot cleanly.

    Reply
    RE
    Renish30 Dec 22, 2017

    Hi, was able to restart the PC with method 2. Now what to do to ensure the same error does not pop up next time I restart.

    FT
    Flying Tiger Jan 15, 2018

    If your computer keeps restarting then going to the advanced options screen then nothing works, how is the suggested software supposed to run to fix the problem in the first place?

    KL
    Kevin J. Lumpsum Mar 4, 2018

    This happens every time I buy a new PC then use it for several years until the installed Windows becomes unsupported by Microsoft and until Windows does a bunch of updates and I suspect allegedly MS is sending some files with those “updates” which damage the now outdated Windows and even damage the Hard Disk of the PC. This has happened already 5 times, very similar situation and always Windows updates make my PC unusable where I can not even reinstall a fresh Windows on it again. This is allagedly part of corporate PLANNED OBOLESCENCE agenda forcing us to buy a new PC and install new Windows (which I dislike) and I don’t have the money to buy a new PC but without a new PC I can not have an income…

    JL
    Janeth Luque Apr 28, 2018

    gracia!! funciona la opcion 2!
    gracias!!

    GU
    Guilz Jul 23, 2018

    ”the file cannot be copied onto itsfelf”

    TH
    Tanner Hunley Sep 8, 2018

    Thank you so much i thoight i would have to take it to an pc repair shop i cant thank you enough

    ÖY
    Ömer عمر Yumer Sep 8, 2018

    Method #2 helped me. 10x!

    CA
    catonawheel Nov 22, 2018

    Thank you very much! Like everyone else, number 2 worked for me too. I was scared because I thought i had to clean my entire hdd.

    BD
    Big Daddy Dec 20, 2018

    Mine won’t even open windows, it just goes to that and doesn’t work 🙁

    HL
    hunkyu Lee Jan 8, 2019

    Method #2 is worked for me! thx

    SW
    Shane Warren Author Sep 21, 2019

    Boot through a Windows bootable USB and try the steps listed

    SW
    Shane Warren Author Sep 30, 2019

    Move on towards other solutions.

    SW
    Shane Warren Author May 11, 2020

    Reset the Computers Bios using the 4th method.

    MW
    Myles Williams Jul 10, 2020

    How do I run reimage if I’m stuck on blue screen of death. I’m obviously typing this from a different computer. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Oct 15, 2015

    Can you try booting with force drivers to have signature disabled; then check on the manufacturer’s site to see if there are drives available for your OS (10 or 8) which ever you’re using. Thanks

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Nov 6, 2015

    Are you able to get to the login window where you enter your password?

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Dec 11, 2015

    Please confirm if hardware signatures were disabled correctly? Thanks

    SC
    Samuel W. Coleman Dec 12, 2015

    I tries te F7 technique several times but no luck my laptop is normally windows 7 but upgraded it to win 10

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Dec 13, 2015

    You can use the installation disc to get to the advanced menu.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Dec 26, 2015

    Do you have another computer to create installation media?

    FD
    frank discussion Dec 26, 2015

    Yes. I just borrowed one. However, I have never created installation media. I just moved, too, so my Windows 7 disc is buried somewhere as well.

    FD
    frank discussion Dec 26, 2015

    I went to https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10
    but, ironically, so far nothing happens when I click “Download tool now.”

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Dec 26, 2015

    You can download Windows 7 ISO. You can also download Windows 10 to repair/run. BUT the error mentioned in this guide is for Windows 8 and 10. Can you open a new with your exact issue on eQuestions.net/ask – i will be able to assist you one to one.

    FD
    frank discussion Dec 27, 2015

    The idea of W 7 was to go back to that. Unfortunately, W10 ISO gave me the same error.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Dec 27, 2015

    Please submit this as a new question on equestions.net so i can assist you directly; and if needed connect remotely to check.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jan 5, 2016

    Are you able to reset windows 10, when you go to reset it from the advanced options, you have the option to keep files or remove files. If i were you and the files weren’t important for me, then i would remove them and do a reinstall.

    JE
    Jessica Jan 5, 2016

    Okay. I have most of it saved on different external drives, but wanted to check and make sure before everything disappeared.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jan 6, 2016

    If it is saved, then you’re good to with the reset option.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jan 18, 2016

    Are you able to login before the error?

    MH
    Michel Hayek Jan 18, 2016

    No i cant do anything

    DO
    Dave Ouellette Sep 19, 2023

    tapping the F8 key prior to the BSOD 21a, should get you into Win10 startup menu

    Boot Windows Manually
    1. Reboot press and hold the Shift Key, click Restart {or on a restart, tap the F8 key before windows begins loading
    You could also boot from an OSD Boot stick
    2. Once your on the Options screen, select the “Troubleshoot” item
    3. On the Next Screen, choose the “Advanced Options” item
    4. Click on the “Startup Settings” item
    5. Select #7 – Disable Driver signature enforcement
    6. restart

    Reply
    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jan 18, 2016

    please submit question on equestions.net

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jan 25, 2016

    You will need to trace it with trial and error which can be a lengthy process. You can wait a couple of months and re-run updates, hopefully MS will issue a patch or another update to fix it. Until then, just use a good antivirus and a malware software to stay protected. If this error comes back without updates, then that would indicate that it’s not the update but a program changing settings. We’ll check that out when it happens.

    LG
    Lynn Marie Pinti-Gomez Jan 25, 2016

    Kevin…Thank you, thank you, thank you. You have been a LOT of help in this matter. I am not computer savvy, that’s my brother…when I asked him about this, his response was “I never upgraded to Windows 10, so you are on your own!” Needless to say, I have been upset over this whole ordeal since it started. I am hoping that it is caused by one of the updates and it can be fixed in the future. Lets cross our fingers that I won’t be talking to you too soon that it happened again. Thank you again for your assistance!

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jan 26, 2016

    Welcome 🙂

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Apr 1, 2016

    You have no errors when your PC Can’t turn on, you need to address the “pc turning on” issue first before you get to this .

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Apr 25, 2016

    Please reset your bios to defaults, and then test.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jun 26, 2016

    You’ll need to check which drivers are causing it, the blue screen of death would tell the name of the file triggering it. Type that to me here.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jul 1, 2016

    are you running windows 10 or windows 8?

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jul 1, 2016

    after performing method 1, without rebooting do a clean boot and then reboot. http://appuals.com/best-guide-how-to-clean-boot-windows-10/

    RI
    Ria Jul 2, 2016

    I’m running 10.

    RI
    Ria Jul 2, 2016

    Thanks i wil go do this step by step. I’ll give feedback soon

    RI
    Ria Jul 2, 2016

    Thanks a lot. This fixed all!!

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jul 2, 2016
    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jul 31, 2016

    I would suggest you do a clean install in this case.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Aug 12, 2016

    I can help you troubleshoot it. Are you able to boot into your Windows or are you presented with this error before you login?

    CC
    christophe cousin Aug 12, 2016

    Hi thank you when i restart it goes directly to repairing your computer then diagnosis then your pc did not start correctly so i go to advance option startup setting and tried all f1 to f7 but does not work back everytime to pc ran into problem collect info then you can restart blue screen flash code and stop code Oxcoooo21a OS 8 OS 10 having this for 4 months and this will be 5th recovery the second for OS10 what shall i do thc

    Note 3 days ago same issue i managed to go back to previuos build ie OS8 it works re upgrade OS10 worked 24h and crash

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Aug 12, 2016

    Can you boot into advanced mode, go to Command Prompt and then type the following commands, then do a reboot and test.

    bootrec /fixmbr

    bootrec /fixboot

    bootrec /rebuildbcd

    Disconnect all external devices connected to it.

    Reply
    CC
    christophe cousin Aug 12, 2016

    I did it it says after typing then enter first one operation completed successfully second one successfully 3rd one litle time scaning all disk for windows installation , sucessfully scanned and total identified Wnidows installation: 0
    Operation complete succesfully so i close the window close the PC and start open direct to your pc ran into problem stop code oxc000021a did it twice…

    CC
    christophe cousin Aug 12, 2016

    Thx the list is very long am not computer nerd 50yo in your list i do not know what you mean by copy after first step copy from where or what i must write copy then again copy xxxx enter? I am affraid it is going to be back to shop or can we chat line whatsapp? Thx

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Aug 12, 2016

    Try the following:

    Step 1: Type
    cd WindowsSystem32Config

    Step 2: Copy

    copy BCD-Template Temp and Press Enter

    copy COMPONENTS Temp and Press Enter

    copy DEFAULT Temp and Press Enter

    copy SAM Temp and Press Enter

    copy SECURITY Temp and Press Enter

    copy SOFTWARE Temp and Press Enter

    copy SYSTEM Temp and Press Enter

    STEP 3

    ren BCD-Template BCD-Template.bak and Press Enter

    ren COMPONENTS COMPONENTS.bak and Press Enter

    ren DEFAULT DEFAULT.bak and Press Enter

    ren SAM SAM.bak and Press Enter

    ren SOFTWARE SOFTWARE.bak and Press Enter

    ren SECURTY SECURITY.bak and Press Enter

    ren SYSTEM SYSTEM.bak and Press Enter

    STEP 4
    copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackBCD-Template C:WindowsSystem32ConfigBCD-Template and Press Enter

    copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackCOMPONENTS C:WindowsSystem32ConfigCOMPONENTS and Press Enter

    copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackDEFAULT C:WindowsSystem32ConfigDEFAULT and Press Enter

    copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackSAM C:WindowsSystem32ConfigSAM and Press Enter

    copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackSECURITY C:WindowsSystem32ConfigSECURITY and Press Enter

    copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackSOFTWARE C:WindowsSystem32ConfigSOFTWARE and Press Enter

    copy C:WindowsSystem32ConfigRegbackSYSTEM C:WindowsSystem32ConfigSYSTEM and Press Enter

    then test, and let me know.

    Reply
    KA
    K. Arrows Author Aug 12, 2016

    All you need to do is get back to command prompt, and type without thinking. First type STEP 1 commands, then STEP 2 and so on.

    SA
    Sacha Aug 23, 2016

    Hi, I followed your instructions but windows still failed to boot. My regback folder didn’t contain BCD-Template or COMPONENTS so I copied them from another windows 10 laptop, but it still failed.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Aug 23, 2016

    Have you tried system restore from the advanced options?

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Sep 3, 2016

    Okay, i would suggest that you should do a clean install.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Sep 15, 2016

    It would be best to just do a reinstall.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Sep 15, 2016

    I would suggest you do a reinstall.

    VA
    Vaibhav Sep 16, 2016

    Hi Kevin.

    I sent you a message on this forum 6 days ago.
    Would be great to get a reply.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Sep 25, 2016

    It would be best to reinstall your windows, speaking from experience if you’ve tried all of the steps mentioned here and the hardware isnt at fault, then reinstalling would be the way to go.

    JB
    John Bateman Sep 26, 2016

    Thanks for replying! The trouble is, I’m totally rubbish at working with PC software. Do you know how to reinstall Windows without booting to desktop, and since I bought 7, 8 & 10 online, and don’t have an install disk?

    HZ
    Hussain Zidane Dec 1, 2016

    I tried to install windows and format my drive but I get same blue screen and error after while on my Asus laptop. I guess my hard disk is damaged and I need to replace it 🙁

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Sep 30, 2016

    You will need to use another PC to download ISO and burn it onto a USB or a disc, and then change boot order from bios to boot from the media (usb or cd) and then do a reinstall. You can use the license keys you have to activate once it is installed.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Oct 26, 2016

    You mean, SSD is not showing up in the boot order?

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Oct 30, 2016

    I’d suggest you format this drive, on an other PC by connecting it to the other pc using a disk enclosure and then try installing windows, if the disk is faulty, you will know when you connect it to the other pc.

    KL
    Kevin J. Lumpsum Mar 4, 2018

    Allegedly MS sends files along with updates to kill older PCs (over 2 years old) those that have not upgraded to their increasingly watchful surveilance state Windows 10. Switching to another OS such as Linux is the way to combat this unconstitutional thing called PLANNED OBSOLESCENCE.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Nov 13, 2016

    You can use a disk enclosure to copy the data first, and then do a reset.

    TA
    True Blue Assist Nov 14, 2016

    Thank you for replying! What do you mean with disk enclosure..? If I “clone” the drive to another 1 TB drive, I might just have the same trouble getting the data off that drive after the reset, or? What do you suggest?

    RP
    Robert P Nov 15, 2016

    The problem is that the drive didn’t show up on another computer. It comes up saying it had to be formatted first which I’m not going to do unless I have a way to restore the data… The drive tested good in a DiskJockey.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Nov 29, 2016

    Apologies for the delayed response. What i meant to say is that if you get a Disk Enclosure and copy the data (not clone) to another drive or computer by putting the drive from the computer in question into the enclosure and then once the data is copied, you can then do a clean install.

    TA
    True Blue Assist Nov 29, 2016

    Totally fine, yes that’s what I initially tried but on the other pc it wouldn’t show up, I only got a msg saying the drive needs to be formatted. Anyways, I was finally able to recover the data from the disk using File Scavenger, then I wiped it and re-installed Win10 and everything else. I also turned off the Windows Update Service and set them up with a backup solution 🙂
    Thank you!

    MP
    Mithun pauk Jun 26, 2017

    Same issue

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Nov 30, 2016

    Thanks for the suggestion

    HZ
    Hussain Zidane Dec 1, 2016

    I tried this method, still I get same error. any suggestion ?

    PO
    porga Dec 7, 2016

    It is easiest to boot some Live Linux distro and connect external usb/hdd drive. It will mount both drives so you can copy files on external. I did that few days ago.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Dec 11, 2016

    thanks for the suggestion

    BB
    Benny Boop Jan 7, 2017

    Same issue. cp is not a command on Windows 10 either.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jan 7, 2017

    use copy command.

    Reply
    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jan 8, 2017

    I’v’e updated the guide.

    BB
    Benny Boop Jan 9, 2017

    Thanks, I’ll try it soon.

    KA
    K. Arrows Author Jan 19, 2017

    No, .old is when you rename them

    A
    Alice K. Apr 25, 2017

    Mine is saying file cannot be copied onto itself as well. Is it supposed to say that?

    JP
    JPL Jun 3, 2017

    you have to add the destination
    copy /Y SOFTWARE C:windowssystem32config

    Reply
    GA
    Gabriele Oct 30, 2017

    Hi! Can you please share how you did fix this in the end? I am having the same problem and can’t find a way out! cheers

    KA
    Kamil Anwar Aug 6, 2018

    That’s right.