ERROR_WX86_ERROR 540 (0x21C) [BSoD Fix]

Look for a 32-bit or 64-bit alternative of the app

Windows 11 » Repair

Reading time icon 3 min. read

Calendar icon Published on

by Srishti Sisodia 

published on

Share this article

Readers help support Windows Report. We may get a commission if you buy through our links. Tooltip Icon

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial team. Read more

RROR_WX86_ERROR with error code 540 (0x21C) and description “An error occurred in the WX86 subsystem” indicates that there is an issue within the WX86 subsystem related to running 16-bit Windows applications on a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows. You might have these types of issues when trying to run legacy apps on modern computers.

How can I get rid of ERROR_WX86_ERROR?

1. Run the program in compatibility mode.

  1. Right-click the application and select Properties from the context menu.
  2. Go to the Compatibility tab, then locate the Compatibility mode section.
  3. Select Run this program in compatibility mode for, then choose the operating system, such as Windows XP or Windows 98, from the drop-down.Compatibility mode ERROR_WX86_ERROR
  4. Click Apply and OK to confirm.

2. Install a virtual machine

If compatibility mode doesn’t work and you want to run a 16-bit app on your computer, you should consider using a Virtual Machine app like VirtualBox or VMware. These apps can emulate an older Windows environment, allowing you to learn older applications.

However, if the app you want to run is DOS-based, use an emulator like DOSBox. It can run the app in a simulated environment.

3. Find a 32-bit/64-bit version of the app

The best way to avoid the ERROR_WX86_ERROR is to look for the 32-bit or 64-bit version of the application you are trying to run.

You can go to the app’s official website and look for the latest version or find an alternative that doesn’t require a WX86 subsystem.

4. Run the System File Checker scan

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd in the search box, and click Run as administrator from the list of options to launch Command Prompt with administrative privileges.CMD elevated - ERROR_WX86_ERROR
  2. Copy & paste the following command to scan and repair the damaged or missing system files, and hit Enter: sfc /scannowSFCSCANNOW CMD
  3. Wait for the scan to complete, then restart your PC to let the changes take effect.

To conclude, you can fix ERROR_WX86_ERROR by running it in compatibility mode, looking for an alternative compatible with the latest version of Windows, run the SFC scan as corrupted files can interrupt the legacy apps from running.

Do you often see BSoD errors on your computer? Then, you must know the reasons for their occurrence so that you can prevent them.

If you have any questions or suggestions about the BSoD error, feel free to mention them in the comments section below.

More about the topics: BSoD error codes, BSoD errors, Windows 11

Srishti Sisodia

Srishti Sisodia Shield

Windows Software Expert

Srishti Sisodia is an electronics engineer and writer with a passion for technology. She has extensive experience exploring the latest technological advancements and sharing her insights through informative blogs. Her diverse interests bring a unique perspective to her work, and she approaches everything with commitment, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. That's why she's part of Windows Report's Reviewers team, always willing to share the real-life experience with any software or hardware product. She's also specialized in Azure, cloud computing, and AI.

User forum

0 messages