Bootup failure 0xc0000185 error

[DickRLV]

Having constant problems trying to start my laptop, I get the 0xc0000185 error code and 'system32/ntoskrnl.exe missing or damaged. I have created a recovery stick and can get it started after 4-5 attempts. any advice would be helpful.

[Deep_World]

Hi @DickRLV,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

Sorry for the inconvenience caused don’t worry let me help you.

To better understand the issue, could you please provide a few more details?

• Does the error appear every time you power on, or only intermittently?
• Have you noticed if the issue started after a Windows update or software installation?
• Is your recovery stick created using HP Recovery Manager or Windows Media Creation Tool?
• When the system does boot successfully, does it run normally, or do you notice performance issues?

In the meantime, here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:

1. Run HP Hardware Diagnostics
   • Restart the laptop and press Esc repeatedly → select F2 for diagnostics.
   • Run the Extensive Test on the hard drive to check for disk errors, as this error often points to disk corruption.
2. Check Boot Configuration (Make sure data is backed up before opting this option)
   • Boot into recovery mode → choose Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Command Prompt.
   • Run the following commands:

bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd
 

1. These commands repair the boot configuration data.
2. System File Check
   • In Command Prompt, run:

sfc /scannow
 

1. This scans and repairs missing or corrupted system files.
2. Update BIOS and Drivers
   • Visit HP’s support website for your model and ensure the BIOS and chipset drivers are up to date.
3. Check Recovery Options (Make sure data is backed up before opting this option)

• If the issue persists, consider performing a System Restore to roll back to a stable point, or a Reset this PC (keeping your files if possible)

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 

Best regards,

Deep_World

[DickRLV]

Thanks for the tips, unfortunately I am still having problems! I intermittently get the 0xc0000185 error and "selected boot device failed". I have updated the drivers, run the troubleshooter (not much help!) I have gone into the command prompt and run the bootrec commands but the bootrec /fixboot returns an "Access denied" statement. When I ran the sfc /scannow command it said it had found and fixed corrupted files.

The extensive test of the hard drive passed OK. Having said all that when it does bootup it works normally.

I have created the HP recovery USB but not used it yet!. I did have to use the Windows recovery USB when i could not bet it to boot. regards **bleep**

[Deep_World]

Hi @DickRLV,

Thanks for your response. It looks like you’re still having issue with the unit.

To get you the best assistance, we need to take this conversation to a private chat. We're inviting you to a private message to protect your privacy and ensure that any sensitive information remains confidential. 

To access your private message, just click the little blue envelope icon on the upper right corner of your HP Community profile, next to your profile name. Alternatively, you can click on this link. 

You can use this link as well: 

Private Messages - HP Support Community

We're looking forward to helping you resolve this issue! 

Stay tuned, and thanks for your patience! 

Best regards,

Deep_World