How to Fix Error 0x80000003 Unknown Software Exception

The error code 0x80000003 Unknown Software Exception typically occurs in Windows when the system encounters an issue related to software or a triggered debug exception. Here are several ways to try and fix this error:

1. Scan for viruses and malware

Malicious software can cause various system problems, including this type of error. It’s recommended to perform a full system scan using antivirus software, such as Windows Defender or another trusted security program.

2. Check system file integrity

Corrupted or missing system files can lead to this error. To check and repair them, use the System File Checker (SFC) tool:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Enter the following command: 
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the process to complete and repair any corrupted files.

3. Use the DISM tool

If the SFC tool didn’t help, you can use the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) to restore the system image:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Run the following command: 
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  3. This process may take some time, so wait for it to finish.

4. Update drivers and software

Sometimes this error can be caused by outdated or incompatible drivers. Make sure all drivers, especially for the graphics card and chipset, are up-to-date.

Also, check for and install any available Windows updates.

5. Disable or uninstall problematic software

If the error occurs when launching a specific program, try the following:

  • Update the program to the latest version.
  • Reinstall the program.
  • Uninstall the problematic software to see if the error persists.

6. Use compatibility mode

If the error happens while running older software on newer versions of Windows, try running the program in compatibility mode:

  1. Right-click on the program's shortcut.
  2. Select "Properties," then go to the "Compatibility" tab.
  3. Enable compatibility mode and select an older version of Windows.

7. Boot in Safe Mode

You can sometimes diagnose this error by booting into Safe Mode, where only minimal drivers and services are loaded:

  1. Restart your computer and press F8 (or Shift + F8) to open the advanced boot options.
  2. Select "Safe Mode."

If the error doesn’t occur in Safe Mode, this could indicate a problem with a driver or third-party software.

8. Disable third-party services and startup programs

To identify which program is causing the issue, try performing a clean boot:

  1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, then press Enter.
  2. Go to the "Services" tab, check "Hide all Microsoft services," and then click "Disable all."
  3. Go to the "Startup" tab and disable all programs.
  4. Restart your system.

9. Reinstall Windows

If none of the above methods work, you may need to reinstall the operating system. This is a last resort option to consider only after all other attempts to resolve the issue have been exhausted.

Try these methods step by step, and you will most likely be able to resolve the error.