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How to Fix 0xc0000135 Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

If you are seeing the 0xc0000135 error on your Windows 11 PC, it usually means there is an issue with missing or corrupted software components.

This error often appears when trying to launch certain applications or games.

Don’t worry, fixing it is usually straightforward and can be done with simple steps.

In this guide, we will walk you through easy-to-follow methods to solve the problem.

Quick Note: What to Check Before You Begin

  • Check for Windows Updates: Sometimes, missing system updates can cause errors. Make sure your Windows 11 is fully updated.
  • Confirm the Error Message: The 0xc0000135 error often relates to .NET Framework issues. Knowing this helps target the fix.
  • Backup Important Data: While the following steps are safe, it’s a good idea to backup your files before troubleshooting.
  • Administrator Access: Ensure you are logged in with an account that has administrator rights as some fixes require elevated permissions.

Step 1: Install or Repair Microsoft .NET Framework

The 0xc0000135 error commonly appears because the required version of the Microsoft .NET Framework is missing or damaged. This software is critical for running many Windows applications.

  1. Press Windows key + S and type “Turn Windows features on or off”. Click to open it.
  2. In the window that appears, look for .NET Framework 3.5 (includes .NET 2.0 and 3.0). Make sure the box next to it is checked.
  3. If it is unchecked, check it and click OK. Windows will download and install the necessary files.
  4. If already checked, you can try unchecking it, clicking OK, then repeating the process to force a repair installation.
  5. Restart your computer after the installation or repair finishes.

Why this matters: Many apps depend on specific .NET Framework versions. Having them installed and functional ensures smooth app launching.

Step 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) to Fix Corrupted System Files

Sometimes, system files get corrupted and cause errors like 0xc0000135. The System File Checker tool scans and repairs these files.

  1. Press Windows key + S, type “cmd”, then right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the command window, type the following and press Enter:
    3. sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. This might take several minutes.
  4. If any corrupted files are found, the tool will attempt to repair them automatically.
  5. Once done, restart your PC and try running the application again.

Why this helps: Corrupted system files can break essential functions needed to run programs, so repairing them often fixes errors.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall the Problematic Application

If the error continues for a specific program, the app itself might be outdated or corrupted.

  1. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps and find the application causing the error.
  2. Click on it and select Uninstall.
  3. Visit the official website of the app or the Microsoft Store and download the latest version.
  4. Install the app again and check if the error persists.

Why this works: Applications sometimes require updates to be compatible with the latest Windows and system components.

Step 4: Use the DISM Tool to Repair Windows Image

If SFC didn’t fix the problem, the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can repair deeper system issues.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator again (same as in Step 2).
  2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
    3. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  3. Wait for each command to complete before moving to the next.
  4. After all commands finish, restart your PC.

Why use DISM: DISM fixes Windows system image problems that SFC alone cannot repair, helping restore stability.

Alternative Method: Install the Latest Visual C++ Redistributables

Some applications require Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables to work correctly. Installing or updating these can resolve errors.

  • Go to the official Microsoft website and download the latest Visual C++ Redistributable packages for both x86 and x64 architectures.
  • Run the installers and follow on-screen instructions.
  • Restart your computer once installation completes.

Note: Although less common for this error, it can help if the app depends on these runtime libraries.

FAQs

What exactly does error 0xc0000135 mean?

This error code indicates that the application failed to start because the required .NET Framework version is missing or not installed correctly.

Can I fix this error without admin rights?

Most fixes require administrator privileges because they involve system changes or installing software components.

Will reinstalling Windows fix this error?

Reinstalling Windows is a last resort. Usually, repairing .NET Framework or system files fixes the issue without needing a full reinstall.

Is it safe to download .NET Framework from third-party sites?

No. Always download .NET Framework and related updates directly from official Microsoft sources to avoid malware or corrupted files.

Why does this error happen after a Windows update?

Sometimes, updates can disable or remove certain components like .NET Framework. Reinstalling or enabling them usually resolves the problem.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above methods and still face the 0xc0000135 error, consider these final steps:

  • Use System Restore: Roll back your system to a point before the error started occurring.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support website for more specialized help.
  • Check Application Support Forums: Sometimes, specific apps have known issues and fixes documented by their developers.
  • Consider a Windows Repair Install: This method reinstalls Windows without losing your files but refreshes system components.

Conclusion

The 0xc0000135 error in Windows 11 is usually related to missing or broken .NET Framework installations. By following the simple steps above – installing or repairing .NET Framework, running system file checks, updating apps, and using DISM – you can fix this problem in most cases.

Always start with the easiest solutions and move to advanced ones only if needed. With patience and these troubleshooting tips, you should be able to get your applications running smoothly again.

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