Fixing Error Code 0xc0000221 on Windows 10

Encountering errors on Windows 10 can be frustrating, especially when they prevent your system from booting properly. Error code 0xc0000221 is one such issue that many users face, often leading to confusion about its causes and effective solutions. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore what this error entails, its potential causes, and step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

Understanding Error Code 0xc0000221

Error code 0xc0000221 is associated with a file system error in Windows 10, particularly related to a damaged or missing file crucial for booting the operating system. When this error occurs, users typically encounter a blue screen with the message indicating that a critical system file is either missing or corrupted.

Common Causes of Error Code 0xc0000221

1. Corrupted System Files: The error often arises due to corrupted or missing system files required for booting Windows.
2. Hardware Issues: Faulty hardware components, such as a failing hard drive or RAM, can contribute to this error.
3. Software Installation Problems: Incorrect or incomplete software installations, especially system updates, can lead to file system errors.

Solutions to Fix Error Code 0xc0000221

Solution 1: Perform Automatic Repair

1. Boot into Automatic Repair: Restart your computer and let Windows attempt to repair the startup issues automatically.
2. Access Advanced Options: If Windows fails to start, boot using a Windows installation media. Select "Repair your computer" > "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options" > "Startup Repair."
3. Follow Prompts: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process.

Solution 2: Check and Repair System Files

1. Open Command Prompt: Boot from the installation media, select "Command Prompt" from the advanced options.
2. Run SFC Scan: Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This command will scan and repair corrupted system files.
3. Restart: After the scan completes, restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Solution 3: Check Disk for Errors

1. Open Command Prompt: Again, use the installation media to access Command Prompt.
2. Run CHKDSK: Type chkdsk C: /f /r /x (replace C: with your system drive letter) and press Enter. This command will check for and fix disk errors.
3. Restart: Once CHKDSK completes, restart your PC and see if the issue is resolved.

Solution 4: Rebuild BCD

1. Access Command Prompt: Boot from the installation media and go to Command Prompt.
2. Run Bootrec Commands: Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
   • bootrec /fixmbr
   • bootrec /fixboot
   • bootrec /rebuildbcd
3. Restart: After executing these commands, restart your computer to check if the error is fixed.

Solution 5: Perform System Restore

1. Access System Restore: Boot into Advanced Options using the installation media and select "System Restore."
2. Choose Restore Point: Select a restore point from before the error started occurring.
3. Follow Instructions: Follow the prompts to complete the system restore process.
4. Restart: After restoration, restart your computer and check if the error is resolved.

Solution 6: Update Device Drivers

1. Access Device Manager: Right-click the Start button and select "Device Manager."
2. Update Drivers: Expand categories and right-click devices with a yellow exclamation mark. Select "Update driver."
3. Search Automatically: Choose "Search automatically for updated driver software" and follow the instructions to update drivers.

Solution 7: Repair Windows Image

1. Use DISM Tool: Open Command Prompt as administrator from the installation media.
2. Run DISM Commands: Type dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth and press Enter. Allow the process to complete.
3. Restart: Once done, restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Solution 8: Using AOMEI Backupper to Backup Windows OS

Ensuring your system is backed up is crucial for safeguarding against errors like error code 0xc0000221. Here’s how to use AOMEI Backupper effectively.

Pre-Operation Preparation

• Download and Install: Obtain AOMEI Backupper from the official website and install it on your system.
• Prepare Backup Storage: Ensure you have an external drive or network location ready for storing backups.

Specific Operation Steps

• Launch AOMEI Backupper: Open the software and select "System Backup."
• Set Backup Options: Choose the destination for the backup and configure any additional settings.
• Start Backup: Initiate the backup process by clicking "Start Backup" and allow it to complete.
• Create Bootable Media: For added security, create a bootable media using AOMEI Backupper to restore your system if it becomes unbootable.
• Verify Backup: After completion, verify the backup integrity to ensure it can be used for recovery.

Common Precautions After Operation

• Regular Backups: Schedule regular backups to keep your data and system protected.
• Check Backup Integrity: Periodically verify backups to ensure they are up-to-date and usable in case of emergencies.
• Store Backup Safely: Keep backup storage in a secure location to prevent data loss due to physical damage or theft.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent error code 0xc0000221 from occurring?

Regularly updating Windows, maintaining hardware health, and avoiding abrupt shutdowns can help prevent this error.

Is it safe to perform these repairs myself?

Yes, the solutions provided are safe and commonly used to resolve startup issues in Windows 10.

Can faulty hardware cause error code 0xc0000221?

Yes, hardware issues like a failing hard drive or problematic RAM can contribute to this error.

What if Automatic Repair doesn’t fix the error?

If Automatic Repair fails, using advanced options like SFC scan or rebuilding BCD should help.

How does AOMEI Backupper help with error code 0xc0000221?

AOMEI Backupper provides reliable system backup solutions, ensuring you can restore your system quickly and effectively in case of errors like error code 0xc0000221.

Explanation of Tech Terms

SFC Scan (System File Checker)

SFC scan is a Windows utility that allows users to scan for and restore corrupted system files.

DISM Tool (Deployment Image Servicing and Management)

DISM is a command-line tool that administrators can use to prepare, modify, and repair Windows images.

BCD (Boot Configuration Data)

BCD is a firmware-independent database used by Windows Boot Manager to configure the boot process.

Conclusion

Resolving error code 0xc0000221 requires patience and a systematic approach, but with the right tools and methods, you can successfully troubleshoot and fix the issue. Whether it's repairing system files, updating drivers, or using AOMEI Backupper for backup solutions, each step contributes to a more stable and reliable Windows experience. Remember to implement regular backups and maintenance to prevent future occurrences of this error. Download AOMEI Backupper today to ensure your data and system are protected against unexpected errors and failures.