How to Fix Starfield Error Code 0xc00000096

The Starfield error code 0xc00000096 is a common issue that can cause frustration for gamers. This error can be caused by various factors such as corrupted cache, files, driver issues, or third-party services. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to fix this error and get back to enjoying your gaming experience.

 Check System Requirements

The first step in resolving the Starfield error code 0xc00000096 is to ensure that your PC meets the game's system requirements. Starfield is an upcoming highly anticipated game from Bethesda, and it is expected to have demanding hardware requirements. Check the official system requirements provided by the game developers to see if your PC meets the minimum and recommended specifications.

Additionally, verify if your hardware is compatible with the game. Sometimes, certain components may not be supported or might require specific drivers to function properly. Check the manufacturer's website for any updates or compatibility information related to your specific hardware.

Enable High-Performance Mode

Switching your PC to high-performance mode can significantly improve gaming performance and potentially resolve the Starfield error code 0xc00000096. High-performance mode allows your system to allocate more resources to the game, ensuring smoother gameplay and reducing the chances of encountering errors.

To enable high-performance mode, follow these steps:

• 1. Right-click on the Windows Start button and select "Power Options."
• 2. In the power options menu, select "High performance."
• 3. Close the power options menu and launch Starfield to see if the error persists.

 Disable Antivirus and Firewall

Antivirus and firewall software can sometimes interfere with the functioning of games, leading to errors like the Starfield error code 0xc00000096. To rule out any compatibility issues caused by these security programs, temporarily disable them while playing the game.

Please note that disabling your antivirus and firewall software temporarily can leave your system vulnerable to threats. Therefore, it is recommended to disconnect your PC from the internet or use caution while doing so.

To disable your antivirus and firewall software, follow these general steps:

• 1. Locate the antivirus or firewall program's icon in the system tray.
• 2. Right-click on the icon and look for an option to disable or turn off the program temporarily.
• 3. Confirm any prompts that appear and launch Starfield to see if the error is resolved.

Update DirectX Runtime and Visual C++ Packages

Outdated or incompatible DirectX runtime and Visual C++ packages can cause issues with games, including the Starfield error code 0xc00000096. To ensure compatibility, it is essential to keep these packages up-to-date.

To update DirectX runtime and Visual C++ packages, follow these steps:

• 1. Visit the official Microsoft website and search for the latest version of DirectX runtime and Visual C++ packages.
• 2. Download and install the latest versions compatible with your operating system.
• 3. Restart your PC and launch Starfield to check if the error has been resolved.

Restart Your PC

To restart your PC, follow these simple steps:

• 1. Click on the Windows Start button.
• 2. Select the Power button.
• 3. Choose the Restart option from the menu.
• 4. After the restart, launch Starfield to see if the error persists.

Update Drivers

Outdated or corrupt drivers can often be the cause of various gaming errors, including the Starfield error code 0xc00000096. It is crucial to keep your graphics card drivers, sound card drivers, and any other relevant drivers up-to-date to ensure optimal performance.

To update your drivers, follow these general steps:

• 1. Identify the manufacturer and model of your graphics card, sound card, or any other relevant hardware.
• 2. Visit the manufacturer's official website and navigate to the support or downloads section.
• 3. Search for the latest drivers compatible with your specific hardware and operating system
• 4. Download and install the drivers, following the manufacturer's instructions
• 5. Restart your PC and launch Starfield to check if the error has been resolved.

 Delete Cache

Corrupted cache files associated with Starfield can cause the error code 0xc00000096. Clearing the cache can help resolve any data corruption issues and potentially fix the error.

To clear the cache files, follow these steps:

• 1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
• 2. Type "%appdata%" (without quotes) and press Enter.
• 3. Locate the folder named "Starfield" or the name of the game publisher.
• 4. Right-click on the folder and select Delete.
• 5. Confirm any prompts that appear and launch Starfield to see if the error is resolved.

Limit FPS (Frames Per Second)

High FPS (Frames Per Second) settings can strain your system, potentially leading to errors like the Starfield error code 0xc00000096. Lowering the FPS limit in the in-game settings can reduce this strain and potentially fix the error.

To limit FPS in Starfield, follow these steps:

• 1. Launch Starfield and navigate to the game settings.
• 2. Look for the option to limit the FPS or frame rate.
• 3. Lower the FPS limit to a value that your system can comfortably handle.
• 4. Save the settings and launch Starfield to see if the error has been resolved.

Update Windows

Keeping your Windows operating system up-to-date is crucial for optimal performance and stability while gaming. Make sure you have installed all available Windows updates to ensure your system is optimized for gaming and to fix any potential compatibility issues causing the Starfield error code 0xc00000096.

To update Windows, follow these steps:

• 1. Click on the Windows Start button.
• 2. Go to Settings > Update & Security.
• 3. Click on the "Check for updates" button.
• 4. If updates are available, click on the "Download and install" button.
• 5. Once the updates are installed, restart your PC and launch Starfield to check if the error has been resolved.

Re-install Gaming Services

If none of the previous solutions work, consider re-installing any necessary gaming services or platforms related to Starfield. Sometimes, these services can become corrupt or outdated, causing errors like the Starfield error code 0xc00000096.

To re-install gaming services, follow these general steps:

• 1. Open the game services platform associated with Starfield (e.g., Steam, Epic Games Store, Bethesda Launcher).
• 2. Locate Starfield in your game library.
• 3. Right-click on the game and select the option to uninstall or remove.
• 4. Confirm any prompts that appear to uninstall the game completely.
• 5. Restart your PC and re-install Starfield through the gaming services platform.
• 6. Launch Starfield to see if the error has been resolved.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you should be able to resolve the Starfield error code 0xc00000096. Remember that regular updates are crucial for optimal performance, so make sure to keep your system and game up-to-date. Now you can get back to exploring the vast universe of Starfield without any interruptions. Happy gaming!