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Windows 11 0xc1900101 (We Couldn’t Install Windows): Fix
12 tested solutions to fix this error on your device
11 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Our readers constantly encounter the 0xc1900101 error code while using the Windows 11 Installation assistant. This occurs when they try to upgrade to the new operating system or perform a regular update on a Windows 11 device.
The Windows 11 0xc1900101 error code is generic. Several reasons exist, including installing a third-party antivirus on your device or even having outdated BIOS firmware.
Most users have reported that the error code appears when they are in the process of installing Windows 11 on their devices. The error would then halt the process at a certain percentage.
It is worth noting that it will still occur regardless of the mode you use to install Windows 11 on your device. For instance, the error code affects the Media creation tool, ISO file, Windows Update, and Installation Assistant.
What does the Windows 11 Update Error 0xC1900101 mean?
The 0xc1900101 Windows 11 update code on your screen indicates that the core system files are either corrupted or broken.
The immediate action to take when such a situation presents itself would be to create a system restore point before trying to resolve the issue.
When the error code appears on your screen, it will come with a prefix before it. Some of them include 0xc1900101 0x30018, 0xc1900101 0x20017, 0xc190010 –0x40021, 0xc1900101– 0x3001a, 0xc1900101 0x2000c and 0xC1900101– 0x4000D.
The error code will present itself in one of the following formats on your screen:
What causes the 0xC1900101 error code in Windows 11?
If your device lacks sufficient disk space, you will likely encounter the error code on Windows 11. It may also appear on your screen if there is a problem inside SATA or BIOS.
Moreover, the bug is often related to outdated device drivers, corrupted system files, or problematic app installation.
Therefore, there are quite a large number ofcommon causes of Blue Screen of Death errors. It would help if you took good care of your device to avoid getting into such a situation.
However, the issue should not be a significant concern as we have compiled a list of simple methods you can use to eliminate this. Don’t fret!
Why is my Windows not updating?
There are a few reasons for update errors and issues. Here are some to note:
Let us now get to fixing the 0xC1900101 Windows 11 update error for you.
How do I fix the Windows 11 install error 0xC1900101?
1. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter
This is the best and easiest method that you can use to find out the reason preventing you from making the new operating system installation or up-gradation on your device.
2. Clean up disk
When installing Windows 11 using the Media Creation Tool, it is essential to note that you need around 20 GB or 64-bit OS. Therefore, you should ensure that the local disk you wish to install the operating system has sufficient space.
3. Remove all secondary devices and unplug all cables
If too many devices and cables are connected to your device while trying to upgrade your Windows, then the0xC1900101 installation error code will appear.
You must disconnect all secondary devices and unplug all cables from your PC, such as printers, broadband, and soundbars. This will get you a step closer to resolving the installation error code.
Moreover, if you are using a desktop, it is recommended that you unplug all the cables connected to your hard disk and clean off the dirt on it.
Connect the cables back to your device. It is also essential to ensure that you eject and reconnect your device’s wired mouse and keyboard.
Then, you should try installing the Windows update on your device using bootable media to see if it works.
4. Remove recently downloaded applications
On the other hand, applications downloaded from Microsoft can only be uninstalled using the following steps:
Suppose you recently downloaded and installed a new program and the installation error code started appearing. In that case, you need to uninstall the application because it is most likely the one causing the issue.
5. Update your faulty driver
1.PressWindowskey +Xkey simultaneously to open thePower menu.
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SelectDevice Managerfrom the list.
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InDevice Manager,expand each section to find the problematic driver.TheYellow exclamation marknext to a driver signifies that the specific driver is problematic or buggy.
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When you find the faulty driver, right-click on it to bring up a set of options.
5.Select theUpdate driveroption.
6.Then, click onSearch automatically for driversand let the system search for any pending updates online.
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If the above search finds any pending updates, they will be automatically downloaded and installed.
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Finally, restart your device to save the changes made.
An outdated or corrupted Windows will prevent you from installing a new operating system on your device. Updating your drivers should resolve the Windows 11 0xC1900101 installation error.
You can also use an automated tool to find and update all your drivers, even the corrupted ones.Outbyte Driver Updateris a specialized tool with a database of over 18 million driver files that is updated almost daily.
Outbyte Driver Updater
6. Run the SFC command
If your device has corrupted system files or there are a couple of files missing on the operating system, then this may prevent a smooth, seamless up-gradation,
Therefore, you must use the System File Checker to resolve the installation error code.
7. Disable your network adapters
8. Clear CMOS
Resetting the BIOS on your device will surely help you get some headway with the installation error code. However, it is essential to note that this method is easier to perform on a desktop than on a laptop.
9. Check for disk errors
Specific and logical physical issues on your system drive can also cause the Windows 11 update error 0xc1900101. The CHKDSK utility will help you resolve the issue.
10. Create space on your disk
Installing Windows 11 requires at least 16GB or more, just like any operating system. However, if your device does not have enough space, you can use the Disk Cleanup tool to clear all the junk and old installation files on your device.
Storage can prevent you from smoothly installing the new operating system. Freeing up some space will help you eliminate the installation error code.
11. Upgrade in clean boot
Sometimes, third-party applications and services conflict with the in-built ones, ultimately causing the system to go through unexpected challenges. Therefore, starting Windows in a clean boot can help you avoid such situations.
Clean boot allows you to start the system with basic components creating an enabling environment for the installation process.
12. Repair corrupted system files
Accidental changes in the settings or registry can cause some system components to go missing or even become corrupted.
The process is stopped when the system fails to access the necessary files while performing the update, and the error code appears.
How can I fix installation error codes in Windows 11?
Performing a clean installation on your device might get you over the hump if none of the above methods worked. This is the only workaround available if you need to get Windows 11 on your operating system.
You must note that a clean install on your device will make you lose all the data, including the installed applications in the system drive.
Why did Windows Update fail?
Your system files may have recently been destroyed or damaged, which is why Windows Update failed. Additionally, obsolete drivers may cause an update to fail.
But also, as we stated before, internet connection problems, insufficient disk space, and incompatible antivirus programs play a role.
Do not hesitate toperform a clean Windows 11 installon your device even without the assistant. If youexperience Windows 11 installation problems, one helpful trick is to enable TPM in BIOS.
Moreover, feel free touse third-party repair applicationsthat will help you deal with a wide range of Windows update difficulties, such as the 0xC1900101 installation error code on Windows 11.
Have you managed to fix the Windows 11 0xc1900101 error? Do not hesitate to share your experience with other readers in the comments section below.
More about the topics:Windows Installation errors
Radu Tyrsina
Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time).
For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web.
Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they’re looking for.
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