: Windows Defender or third-party security software flags the driver creation process as malicious activity (a false positive) and blocks it.
Damaged or missing program files can cause the verification process to fail.
If you have tried all the steps above and still get Error Code 4, consider these alternatives:
If you have x360ce sitting in your C:\Program Files , C:\Windows , or directly in a protected game directory, Windows will block its self-protection scripts. self protection failed error code 4 x360ce 2021
In the x360ce architecture, signifies a core driver communication failure.
If it shows the is missing or has an issue, click Install or Reinstall .
If you're on a newer operating system like Windows 11, running x360ce or the game in compatibility mode can sometimes resolve conflicts. Right-click the x360ce .exe file, select , go to the Compatibility tab, and check the box for "Run this program in compatibility mode for:" . You can then select an older version of Windows, such as Windows 7 or 8, from the dropdown menu. : Windows Defender or third-party security software flags
Many users have found that blocking the game's connection through the Windows Defender Firewall prevents the "Self Protection" module from failing. Windows Defender Firewall from your Start menu and select Advanced Settings on the left. Inbound Rules
Allow the program to download the required components automatically. Conclusion
Move the entire x360ce folder to a more accessible location, such as the Desktop or C:\Games\ . Run x360ce.exe from the new location. 4. Enable Driver Signature Enforcement Exception If the driver itself is blocked, you must allow it. In the x360ce architecture, signifies a core driver
The year 2021 was a pivotal time for PC gaming. It saw the widespread adoption of Windows 10 and the initial rollout of Windows 11, alongside frequent updates to security patches like Microsoft Defender. This environment contributed significantly to the prevalence of Error Code 4 in three distinct ways:
Do not uninstall your controller driver yet. Follow these fixes from simplest to most thorough.
If you are trying to map your controller using the x360ce (Xbox 360 Controller Emulator) 2021 or 2022 versions, encountering the can completely halt your gaming setup. This specific error prevents the application from initializing its virtual gamepad drivers, meaning your PC won't recognize your custom controller inputs.
Under the tab, check Run this program as an administrator .