How Fix Error 0x80004005 Windows Failed to Initialize

Error code 0x80004005 is a common error that can occur in Windows when a process or application is unable to complete a task.

This error can occur for various reasons, including corrupt system files, malware infections, and hardware issues. One of the most common instances of this error is when Windows fails to initialise.

When you turn on your computer, the first thing that happens is that the operating system starts to load. However, if there is an issue with the system files or hardware, Windows may fail to initialise, and you will see the 0x80004005 error message on your screen.

Here we have discussed some methods that you can use to fix this error and get rid of Error 0x80004005.

Solution 1: Perform a Startup Repair to Fix Error 0x80004005

A startup repair is one of the most common solutions for fixing Error 0x80004005. This solution involves using the Windows installation media to boot your computer and perform a repair of the startup files. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Insert your Windows installation media into your computer and restart it.

Step 2: Press the key to access the boot menu (usually F12 or Del).

Step 3: Select the option to boot from the Windows installation media.

Step 4: Select your language preferences and click Next.

Step 5: Click on the Repair your computer option.

Step 6: Select the Troubleshoot option.

Step 7: Click on the Startup Repair option.

Step 8: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process.

Solution 2: Run the System File Checker

The System File Checker (SFC) is a built-in Windows tool that can help you fix issues with corrupt or missing system files. Here’s how to run the SFC:

Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.

Step 2: Type the command “sfc /scannow” and press Enter.

Step 3: Wait for the scan to complete.

Step 4: If the SFC finds any issues, it will attempt to fix them automatically.

Solution 3: Disable Antivirus and Firewall

Sometimes, your antivirus or firewall can interfere with the startup process and cause Error 0x80004005. To fix this issue, you can try disabling your antivirus and firewall to see if that fixes the problem. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Open the Control Panel.

Step 2: Go to the Security and Maintenance section.

Step 3: Click on the Firewall or Antivirus option.

Step 4: Disable the firewall or antivirus temporarily.

Step 5: Restart your computer and see if the error has been resolved.

Solution 4: Check for Malware Infections

Malware infections can cause a wide range of issues on your computer, including the 0x80004005 error. To fix this issue, you can run a malware scan using your preferred antivirus software. If you don’t have antivirus software installed, you can use the Windows Defender antivirus that comes with Windows 10. Here’s how to run a malware scan:

Step 1: Open the Windows Security app.

Step 2: Click on the Virus and Threat Protection option.

Step 3: Click on the Quick Scan option.

Step 4: Wait for the scan to complete.

Step 5: If any malware is detected, follow the on-screen instructions to remove it.

Solution 5: Check for Hardware Issues

If none of the above solutions works, the 0x80004005 error may be caused by hardware issues.