This error can occur for several reasons, including:
Corrupted or missing application files – Critical executables or dependencies may be damaged or deleted.Incomplete installations – The program may not have been installed properly, leaving components unregistered.System update conflicts – Recent Windows updates can sometimes modify system libraries or security policies that applications rely on.
One of the most common causes is Memory Integrity (part of Core Isolation), a Windows security feature that enforces hypervisor-protected code integrity (HVCI). Memory Integrity runs critical security checks in a protected virtualized environment (the hypervisor) to prevent malicious code injection. While effective against exploits, it can:
Block legitimate applications that use older drivers.Prevent software with unsigned low-level components from running.Interfere with programs that perform direct system access (common in gaming/performance tools).
Due to this strict enforcement, even trusted applications may trigger the 0xc00004ac error when Memory Integrity is active. Below, we’ll explore solutions to resolve this issue.
1. Disable Memory Integrity Checks
If this error occurs while launching a third-party application, the program may lack a valid digital signature or be incompatible with Windows security features like Virtualization-Based Security (VBS). Specifically, Memory Integrity (Hypervisor-protected Code Integrity or HVCI) blocks the execution of unsigned or untrusted drivers and executables. When security checks block the application, it can result in the 0xc00004ac error. Disabling Memory Integrity allows Windows to bypass signature verification for certain drivers, which may help launch restricted applications.
2. Disable Conflicting Startup Programs
Third-party applications—such as antivirus tools, performance overlays, or background services—can interfere with system-level processes required for secure app execution. At startup, these programs may hook into system memory, block driver loading, or conflict with security services like Credential Guard or Application Control. To isolate the issue, perform a clean boot by disabling non-essential startup programs. This ensures no conflicting processes prevent the application from launching.
3. Reinstall or Repair the Application
If the error persists, corrupted or incomplete application files may be preventing proper initialization. Repairing the installation can restore missing or damaged components without a full reinstall. If repair fails, a clean re-installation ensures all files are refreshed.
4. Perform a System Restore
If reinstalling doesn’t resolve the issue, the root cause may be a system-level change (e.g., Windows update, driver installation, or registry modification). System Restore can revert your system to a previous state where the error did not occur. Note: This requires a valid restore point created before the issue arose. If no restore points are available, you can reset Windows without losing personal files. This reinstalls Windows while preserving documents and photos, potentially resolving system file corruption causing the error.
