How to fix “The application cannot be started. Try reinstalling the application to fix the problem. [ERROR_NEEDS_REMEDIATION (0x3CFC)]” – Error Code 15612

Overview

In this article, we’ll focus on resolving the issue described as: “The application cannot be started. Try reinstalling the application to fix the problem. [ERROR_NEEDS_REMEDIATION (0x3CFC)]”. This error, identified by the error code Error Code 15612, can impede your system’s performance, and here’s how you can fix it.

Identifying the Problem

Error Code 15612 is commonly associated with software that’s either damaged or corrupted. It frequently occurs when a software installation or update goes awry, leaving behind broken or missing files. Additionally, malware or virus infections may corrupt essential system files and trigger this error.

Common Fixes

1. Reinstall the Affected Application

The error message itself prompts you to reinstall the affected application, and this is often a straightforward solution. Follow these steps:

1. Uninstall the application via Control Panel or Settings.
2. Download the latest version of the application from the official source.
3. Install the application and re-launch it to check if the issue persists.

2. Run System File Checker (SFC)

System File Checker is a built-in Windows tool that can detect and repair corrupted or missing system files. To run SFC:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type the command: sfc /scannow
3. Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete.

3. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts your system with only essential services and drivers, which helps isolate the cause of the error.

1. Press Windows Key + R and type: msconfig
2. Go to the “Services” tab.
3. Check “Hide all Microsoft services” and click “Disable all.”
4. Go to the “Startup” tab.
5. Click “Open Task Manager” and disable all startup programs.
6. Restart your system and re-launch the application.

Advanced Troubleshooting

1. Check Event Viewer for Errors

Event Viewer can provide detailed information about the error, including the specific software or driver that’s causing it.

1. Open Event Viewer by searching for it in the Start menu.
2. Expand “Windows Logs” and then “Application.”
3. Filter the logs by date or time to identify events around when the error occurred.

2. Use Process Monitor

Process Monitor is a powerful tool that allows you to monitor all processes and threads on your system. This can help you identify any suspicious processes or conflicts that may be causing the error.

1. Download Process Monitor from Microsoft.
2. Run Process Monitor and capture the events.
3. Filter the results by the error code or the affected application.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to resolve Error Code 15612 and restore the functionality of your affected application. To prevent this error in the future:

• Keep your software and drivers updated.
• Use antivirus and anti-malware software to protect your system from infections.
• Run periodic system maintenance tasks, such as disk cleanup and defragmentation.