Error Code 0xc0000185: How to Fix this Error?

Summary: The error code 0xc0000185 Windows 11 could be caused by a corrupted system file, damaged hard drive, or incorrect boot configuration. The solutions provided include checking the boot order, repairing the BCD files, checking the hard drive for damage, running disk cleanup and reinstalling Windows. If nothing works, your data is still recoverable, using Data Recovery Software.

Are you struggling with the dreaded error code 0xc0000185 on your Windows computer?

Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us.

In this article, we’ll go over:

• What is the 0xc0000185 Windows 11 error?
• What causes the 0xc0000185 Windows 11 error?
• How to fix error code 0xc0000185 in Windows 11?
• Advanced Methods to Resolve 0xc0000185 Windows 11 error?
• Can Error Code 0xc0000185 Cause Data Loss?
• How to recover your lost data?

What is the 0xc0000185 Windows 11 error?

The 0xc0000185 error in Windows 11 is commonly associated with issues in the Boot Configuration Data (BCD).

This error typically presents itself with a message indicating that the Boot Configuration Data for your PC is missing or contains errors.

It’s a critical error because it prevents Windows from booting up properly, displaying the error as soon as the operating system starts to boot.

What causes the 0xc0000185 Windows 11 error?

Here are some common reasons why this error happens:

• A corrupted system file
• Damaged hard drive
• Incorrect boot configuration

But the good news is, you have found the right place. We will give you five solutions to fix error on Windows 11 and get your PC running smoothly again.

How to fix error code 0xc0000185 in Windows 11?

Basic Troubleshooting of Windows 11 error

Before we explain the advanced methods to resolve the Windows error code 0xc0000185, let’s understand a simple troubleshooting step.

Reboot Your Computer

One of the simplest methods to resolve the 0xc0000185 windows 11 error is to restart your computer. Sometimes, this action alone can fix minor glitches that may be causing the error.

• Shut down your computer completely.
• Wait for a few seconds.
• Turn your computer back on.
• If the error persists after a reboot, proceed with more advanced troubleshooting methods.

Advanced Methods to Resolve 0xc0000185 Windows 11 error?

Here are five solutions to fix error code 0xc0000185 on Windows 11.

1. Check the Boot Order

This is the first solution that we recommend. This is because sometimes, the error code 0xc0000185 can appear when your computer is trying to boot from the wrong drive.

Here’s how to check the boot order to fix error code 0xc0000185 on Windows 11:

1. Restart your computer. Press the designated key usually F2, F10, or Del during startup. This will take you to the BIOS settings.

2. Use the arrow keys to go to the “Boot” tab.

3. Make sure that the boot order is correct. Here’s how: the drive containing the operating system should be at the top of the list.

4. Save changes. Exit the BIOS settings.

2. Repair the BCD File

When the BCD (Boot Configuration Data) file becomes corrupt, it can lead to error code 0xc0000185 in Windows 11.

To repair the BCD file, follow these steps:

1. Insert your Windows installation media. This could be a USB drive or DVD. Boot from it.

2. Select “Repair your computer”.

3. Go to Command Prompt: Choose “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “Command Prompt.”

4. Type the following commands and hit Enter after each one:

• bootrec /fixmbr
• bootrec /fixboot
• bootrec /rebuildbcd

5. Restart your computer and see if the error is resolved.

3. Check the Hard Drive

Windows error code 0xc0000185 in Windows 10 and 11 may also be caused by a damaged or failing hard drive.

To check the hard drive for errors, use the built-in Windows utility called “chkdsk.”

Here’s how:

1. Go to the search bar and type “Command Prompt”. Click on “Run as Administrator”.

2. Type the command “chkdsk C: /f /r /x” and press Enter.

3. The utility will scan the hard drive for errors and attempt to fix them.

4. Restart your computer and see if the error is resolved.

4. Run Disk CleanUp

When you explore the Internet, your computer saves temporary files and folders on a regular basis. These unnecessary files can cause a variety of problems, including the error number 0xc0000185.

In this situation, you can use a disk cleanup utility to remove these unnecessary files. Here are the steps.

1. Boot into safe mode

2. Type disk cleanup in the search box. Select Disk Cleanup from the listed search results.

3. A window will appear on the website informing you of the overall amount of space that can be freed up by using Disk Cleanup. You can select which folders to delete by unchecking the boxes next to them. Then click OK to complete the procedure.

5. Reinstall Windows

If none of the above solutions works, you may need to reinstall Windows to fix the error code 0xc0000185.

This should be considered a last resort, as it will erase all data on your PC. Here’s how to reinstall Windows:

1. Insert your Windows installation media. This could be a USB drive or DVD and boot from it.

2. Pick your language and other preferences. After this, click “Next.”

3. Click “Install now”. Enter your product key if prompted.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.

The error code 0xc0000185 on Windows 11 can be frustrating. But it’s not the end of the world. Try the solutions we’ve mentioned above.

And if you have any more questions about Windows error code 0xc0000185 Windows 10/ 11, refer to the FAQ section below.

6. Use System Restore

Using Advanced Recovery Menu

System Restore can be an effective solution for fixing Windows error code 0xc0000185.  It rolls back your system to a previous state when everything was functioning correctly.

1. Boot your computer and press the F8 key (or the appropriate key for your system) repeatedly as it starts. 
2. This action will take you to the Advanced Boot Options menu.
3. Choose ‘Troubleshoot’ and then select ‘Advanced Options’.
4. Click on ‘System Restore’.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to select a restore point before the error started occurring.
6. Allow the process to complete and restart your computer.

From Windows Settings

You can also access System Restore from within Windows:

1. Search for ‘Control Panel’ in the Windows search bar and open it.
2. Navigate to ‘System and Security’ and then ‘System’.
3. Click on ‘System protection’ on the left panel.
4. In the System Properties window, select ‘System Restore’.
5. Choose a suitable restore point and follow the prompts to begin the restoration process.
6. Restart your computer after the process completes.

Can Error Code 0xc0000185 Cause Data Loss?

Yes, it can.

1. When you perform a system restore or reinstall the operating system, there’s a risk of losing data.

2. If the error is linked to hardware issues such as a failing hard drive or RAM, you could lose data.

3. If the error is caused by a virus or malware infection, you might need to identify and remove infected files, which can cause data loss.

How to recover your lost data?

Once you resolve the Error Code 0xc0000185, you might realize you lost some data in the process.

To recover, use Data Recovery Software.

This is a DIY data recovery software. You can download the trial version.

Evaluate Free Data Recovery Software to scan and preview all data that can be recovered, before you purchase a license.

Stellar Data Recovery Professional:

• Recovers lost or deleted data from various storage devices
• Recovers data from formatted drives
• Recovers photos, videos, office documents, and other types of files
• Recovers encrypted data
• Recovers data from any storage drive
• Recovers data from lost partitions
• Recovers data from unbootable or crashed systems
• Monitors the health of hard drives.

Also Read: Get Stellar Data Recovery Activation Key

FAQs

1. Can I fix the error code 0xc0000185 in Windows 11 myself, or do I need professional help?

It depends on the cause of the error. If the error occurs due to missing or damaged system files, you can try fixing it yourself by using the methods we have mentioned above. However, if the error results from hardware issues, you may need professional assistance.

2. Will reinstalling Windows fix error code 0xc0000185 in Windows 11

Reinstalling Windows can fix error code 0xc0000185. However, we recommend it only as a last resort. So, before reinstalling, try other troubleshooting steps, such as running system file checker, checking the disk for errors, or repairing the startup files. If these methods fail, you can consider reinstalling Windows.

3. Is it possible to prevent error code 0xc0000185 from occurring in the future?

Yes. Here’s what you should do to prevent the error:

• Keep your system and software up to date
• Scan your computer for malware
• Run regular disk checks
• Avoid improper shutdowns
• Backup your important data regularly

4. How do I access the Windows Recovery Environment to fix error code 0xc0000185 in Windows 11?

Try restarting your computer and pressing the F8 key repeatedly until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears. From there, you can select the Repair Your Computer option to access the Recovery Environment.

5. What should I do if none of the suggested solutions works for fixing error code 0xc0000185 in Windows 11?

If none of the suggested solutions works for fixing error code 0xc0000185, you may want to consider seeking professional help or contacting Microsoft support for further assistance. You can try reinstalling Windows, but be aware that this may result in data loss. So, back up your important data before attempting any major system changes.