Step-by-Step Guide to Resolve STATUS_CANNOT_LOAD_REGISTRY_FILE Error 0xC0000218

Key Notes

  • Perform Startup Repair to resolve boot issues.
  • Run SFC and DISM scans for system file integrity restoration.
  • Consider a fresh Windows installation if other methods fail.

Troubleshooting the STATUS_CANNOT_LOAD_REGISTRY_FILE Error on Windows

Encountering the STATUS_CANNOT_LOAD_REGISTRY_FILE Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) can be a daunting experience for Windows users. This article provides step-by-step instructions to troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively.

Troubleshooting Steps for STATUS_CANNOT_LOAD_REGISTRY_FILE BSoD

Step 1: Initiate Startup Repair

Start by completely shutting down your device after encountering the error screen. Restart and hold the Power button during startup three times, allowing Windows to enter Repair mode on the fourth attempt.

Once in Repair mode, allow the system scan to complete. If the Automatic Repair fails, opt for Advanced options, then select Troubleshoot, access Advanced options again, and choose Startup Repair.

Finally, select your user account and input your password to permit Startup Repair to rectify the issue.

Pro Tip: Disconnect non-essential hardware to minimize potential conflicts during the repair process.

Step 2: Execute SFC and DISM Scans

Access the Windows Recovery Environment, navigate to Troubleshoot, then select Advanced options and open Command Prompt.

Execute the following DISM commands in sequence, pressing Enter after each: 

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Afterwards, run the System File Checker with: sfc /scannow . Once these scans are complete, restart your computer to see if the issue persists.

Pro Tip: Execute these scans at least once a month to ensure system file integrity.

Step 3: Conduct a System Restore

From the Recovery Environment, select Troubleshoot, and go to Advanced options, then choose System Restore.

Pick your user account, enter the password if prompted, and click Next. Select a restore point from before the error occurred and confirm the restore settings. The process may take between 15 to 45 minutes.

Pro Tip: Always create restore points before significant system changes to quickly revert if needed.

Step 4: Remove Conflicting Drivers

Boot into Safe Mode, then press Windows + X and choose Device Manager. Look for devices marked with a yellow exclamation mark or any recently updated devices.

Right-click on the problematic device, select Uninstall device, and check the box for “Attempt to remove the driver for this device” before proceeding. Exit Safe Mode after uninstallation and reboot.

Pro Tip: Keep your drivers updated regularly to avoid conflicts and improve system stability.

Step 5: Address Disk Problems

In the Recovery Environment, navigate to Troubleshoot, go to Command Prompt, enter your credentials, and type chkdsk /r .

Confirm to schedule the scan for the next startup by pressing Y and Enter. Restart your computer and let Check Disk repair any found issues.

Pro Tip: Schedule regular disk checks as part of your maintenance routine to prevent future errors related to disk corruption.

Step 6: Investigate RAM Issues

To diagnose potential RAM issues, boot into Safe Mode and run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool.

For more thorough testing, consider using Memtest86+ . Replace any faulty RAM modules identified during the test.

Pro Tip: Ensure RAM sticks are seated correctly and dust-free to avoid errors.

Step 7: Reinstall Windows

As a last resort, perform a fresh installation of Windows. Make sure to back up essential files to an external storage device while in Safe Mode.

Use another PC to download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s official page, create a bootable USB, and proceed with the Windows installation on your problematic PC.

Pro Tip: Regularly back up your data to cloud storage or external disks to prevent loss during major changes.

Additional Tips

  • Make sure to verify your backups before attempting fixes.
  • Update drivers and Windows regularly to mitigate compatibility issues.
  • Utilize specialized data erasure tools when preparing to reinstall Windows to ensure data security.

Summary

Fixing the STATUS_CANNOT_LOAD_REGISTRY_FILE Blue Screen of Death involves several troubleshooting steps including running Startup Repair, SFC and DISM scans, and potentially reinstalling Windows. By taking these actions, users can often rectify the underlying cause of the error and restore normal functionality to their systems.

Conclusion

The STATUS_CANNOT_LOAD_REGISTRY_FILE error can disrupt computer operation significantly; however, with a structured approach to troubleshooting, most users can resolve this issue swiftly. If all else fails, seeking professional assistance may be necessary to ensure hardware is functioning properly.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What causes the STATUS_CANNOT_LOAD_REGISTRY_FILE error?

This error can be caused by corrupted registry files, damaged system files, faulty drivers, or hardware issues, notably with RAM and disk drives.

Can I fix the issue without losing data?

Yes, most troubleshooting steps aim to restore functionality without data loss, especially methods like Startup Repair and System Restore.