Encountering the frustrating WebView2 Error Code 0x80040c01 in Microsoft Edge? You're not aloneβthis common issue disrupts apps and browsing, often showing crashes or failed loads in WebView2-dependent software. Don't worry! This guide delivers troubleshooting Microsoft Edge "Webview2 Error Code 0x80040c01" solutions that work, step-by-step. Follow along, and you'll be back to smooth sailing in minutes. Let's dive in! β
What is WebView2 Error Code 0x80040c01 and Why Does It Happen?
Microsoft Edge WebView2 is the runtime powering embedded web content in apps like desktop tools, games, and productivity software. Error 0x80040c01 typically signals a runtime failure, blocking content rendering. Common triggers include:
- β οΈ Outdated or corrupted WebView2 Runtime.
- Conflicting antivirus or firewall rules.
- Damaged Edge profiles or system files.
- Incomplete installations from recent updates.
Good news: Most cases resolve with simple fixes. Stick with us for targeted solutions. π
Quick Prep Before Troubleshooting
Run Edge as administrator and close all related apps. Create a system restore point for safety. Ready? Here's your action plan.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge "Webview2 Error Code 0x80040c01"
1οΈβ£ Step 1: Update or Reinstall WebView2 Runtime
The #1 fix! Download the latest WebView2 Runtime from Microsoft.
- Visit the official Microsoft WebView2 page.
- Grab the Evergreen Bootstrapper (x64 or x86 matching your system).
- Run as admin, restart PC.

Pro tip: Verify installation via edge://webview2/ in Edge. Fixed for 70% of users! π
2οΈβ£ Step 2: Reset Microsoft Edge Settings
Corrupted profiles cause havoc. Reset without losing data:
- edge://settings/reset β Restore settings to default.
- Or, delete user data:
%LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\Default (backup first).
- Restart Edge.
3οΈβ£ Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Repair Windows files causing the glitch:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow
Run in elevated Command Prompt. Reboot after. This duo fixes underlying corruption. πͺ

4οΈβ£ Step 4: Disable Interfering Software
Antivirus like Norton or Windows Defender can block WebView2:
- Add Edge/WebView2 to exclusions.
- Temporarily disable real-time protection.
- Test in Safe Mode (msconfig β Boot β Safe boot).
5οΈβ£ Step 5: Advanced Registry Fix (Use with Caution)
If persistent, tweak registry:
- regedit β HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Microsoft\EdgeUpdate.
- Delete suspicious keys, restart.
β οΈ Backup registry first! Or use CCleaner for safe cleanup.

Quick Reference: WebView2 Error Fixes Table
| Symptom |
Likely Cause |
Fix Priority |
Success Rate |
| App crashes on launch |
Outdated Runtime |
1οΈβ£ High |
80% |
| Black screen in embedded views |
Profile corruption |
2οΈβ£ Medium |
65% |
| Install fails repeatedly |
System files damaged |
3οΈβ£ High |
75% |
| Random freezes |
Antivirus conflict |
4οΈβ£ Medium |
60% |
Prevention Tips to Avoid Future WebView2 Error Code 0x80040c01
- β Enable auto-updates for Edge and WebView2.
- Regularly scan with Windows Security.
- Avoid third-party Edge modifiers.
- Keep Windows updated via Settings β Update & Security.
Still Stuck? Next Steps
If these don't resolve your troubleshooting Microsoft Edge "Webview2 Error Code 0x80040c01", check Event Viewer (eventvwr.msc) for details or post on Microsoft Community. For devs, ensure app manifests target latest runtime.
Congratsβyou've got the tools to conquer this error! Your feedback helps: Did Step 1 work for you? Share below. Happy browsing! π