How to Fix the Audio Error 0xc00d36b4 in Windows 10 & 11
If you’re a Windows user who loves to listen to music or watch videos on the computer, encountering an audio error can be a real annoyance. One such error is the 0xc00d36b4 error, which is often caused by an incompatible file format or missing codecs.
In this guide, we’ll explain the common causes of this issue and provide you with some effective troubleshooting methods to help you fix it.
Understanding the Problem Behind Audio Error 0xc00d36b4 on Windows
The audio error 0xc00d36b4 occurs when Windows fails to play audio due to a problem with the audio codec. It typically occurs on the Groove Music or the Movies & TV app, and can be caused due to one or more of the following factors:
Below, we have listed different troubleshooting methods that can help you fix the problem in no time, regardless of the cause. Choose the solution that is most appropriate for your situation.
1. Check the File Format of the File You’re Playing
Different media players and codecs support different file formats, and if the file you are trying to play is in an unsupported format, the player will fail to play it, leading to the problem at hand.
This is why, the first thing that we recommend doing is making sure that the file you are trying to play is in a supported format. You can do so by right-clicking on the file and choosingProperties. Head over to theGeneraltab and check the file extension or file type there.
If it is not, you can use a third-party application to convert it into a compatible format. Alternatively, you can try using another application that supports the format of your audio file.
2. Run the Audio Troubleshooter
Another easy way of fixing audio-related issues in Windows is by running the audio troubleshooter.
It works by checking your audio settings and hardware for potential issues. If any problems are identified, the troubleshooter will suggest fixes that you may apply by using theApply this fixbutton in the utility.
We covered how to use this handy tool in our guide onfixing no audio on Windows, so check that out for further details.
3. Re-enable Windows Media Player
In some cases, while the Media Player is waiting for a missing codec or a corrupt file to load, it may become unresponsive, triggering the error code 0xc00d36b4. If this happens, it is best to force close the media player and re-enable it to fix the problem.
Here is how you’re able to do that:
4. Uninstall Nero Codecs
As we mentioned above, if you have Nero Codecs installed on your computer, then there is a chance that it is interfering with the processes of Groove Music or the Windows Media Player.
If this applies to you, the easiest way to resolve the issue is by uninstalling Nero Codecs. Here is how you can do that:
5. Disable Copy Protection
In some cases, users noticed that the copy protection feature was preventing certain files from being played. This feature is typically used to prevent unauthorized copying and distribution of copyrighted content but can also cause conflicts with the relevant hardware and software.
By disabling it, it’s possible to bypass any restrictions this feature may have implemented that are causing the issue.
6. Update Audio Drivers
There can be a problem with the audio drivers installed on the system, which is preventing them from communicating with the relevant hardware and leading to the problem.
This typically happens when the drivers are either corrupt or outdated. Fortunately, both of these issues can be fixed byupdating the audio drivers on Windows. The easiest way of doing this is by using the Device Manager utility that comes with Windows by default.
7. Reinstall Windows Media Player
Finally, it’s possible to try reinstalling the Windows Media Player which will clear out any issues within the media player itself that may be contributing to the issue.
Alternatively, you could also consider switching to a third-party media player that offers a similar functionality until Microsoft releases an official fix for this issue. We have discussed some of thebest free media players for Windowsin our previous guide which you can head over to, to make an informed decision.
Audio Issues in Windows, Resolved
By implementing the troubleshooting methods we’ve covered in this guide, you should be able to resolve the audio error 0xc00d36b4 on your Windows system once and for all. We highly recommend keeping your system and software up-to-date and ensuring that you have the necessary codecs installed to avoid encountering such issues in the future.
However, if the problem persists, you can always reach out to the official Microsoft support team for further assistance. They will be able to investigate the issue and provide you with a relevant solution.
Are too many sound devices showing up on your Windows PC? Here’s how to enable the ones you need and disable the ones you don’t.
My foolproof plan is to use Windows 10 until 2030, with the latest security updates.
Not Linux, not Windows. Something better.
When your rival has to bail out your assistant.
Goodbye sending links via other apps.
Quality apps that don’t cost anything.
