Whenever I open Word, I get error 0xc000007b. I can dismiss it, but the same error appears whenever I launch another Office application. I also receive error 0xc000012f when I try to open Windows app settings to uninstall and reinstall Office. The errors can eventually make the computer unusable. I'm running the latest version of Windows 11, using a one-time purchase of Office, and the problem started a few days ago. I already ran DISM and sfc /scannow; they found and repaired corrupted files, but the Office errors continued. What should I try next?
3 Answers
The fact that DISM and System File Checker repaired corruption but the problem returned is worth taking seriously. Back up important files and check the health of the system drive, including its SMART status and a manufacturer diagnostic. A failing drive can corrupt Office and Windows files repeatedly, so reinstalling alone may only provide a temporary fix.
Since the issue only began recently, try running Windows Update and then rebooting fully. If the errors started after a driver, Windows, or Office change, System Restore may be worth trying. Also confirm that you’re installing the correct edition of the one-time Office license rather than a Microsoft 365 build.
Because both errors can indicate damaged application or system components, I’d first try repairing Office from Installed apps. Use the online repair option if it’s available, since the quick repair may not replace corrupted files. If Windows Settings will not open reliably, use Microsoft’s official Office uninstall/support tool instead of uninstalling through Settings, then reinstall Office afterward.
I’d also check Windows Event Viewer for disk, NTFS, or application errors around the time of the crash. If there are drive-related warnings, avoid repeated reinstalls until the important data is backed up.