This post will show you the causes of “side by side configuration is incorrect” on Windows 11 and how to fix the “this application has failed to start side by side” error.
The Side-by-Side (SxS) configuration system in Windows is designed to allow multiple versions of the same software components to coexist peacefully. This is particularly important for Microsoft Visual C++ runtime libraries, which many applications rely on to run correctly.
When you receieve the message: the application has failed to start because its side-by-side configuration is incorrect, it means the operating system cannot find the specific version of a dependency required by this application. Instead of guessing or loading the wrong library, Windows blocks the program from starting. This error commonly occurs due to:
How do I fix side by side configuration is incorrect? Fixing the "Windows 11 side by side configuration is incorrect" issue requires addressing application dependencies, system integrity, and compatibility. Let’s move on to the solution now.
An incomplete installation or missing runtime files can prevent the program from launching. So, you can first try repairing or reinstalling it to restore the missing dependencies.
📢 To reinstall the app: Search for the app name in the Windows search menu. Select Uninstall and go on to complete the process. Then, go to the Microsoft Store and reinstall the latest version of the app.
📢 To repair the app: Open Control Panel > go to Programs and Features > right-click the problematic app > click Advanced options, and then click Repair if available (or click Reset).
Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables are the most common cause of the error sxstrace.exe side by side on Windows 11. Many applications require a specific version, and having only newer or mismatched versions installed may not be enough. You can follow these steps to install the latest version:
Step 1. Visit Microsoft’s official Visual C++ Redistributable download page.
Step 2. Download the latest version that is compatible with your system, then install it.
Step 3. Restart the computer after installation completes, and check if this resolves the side by side configuration is incorrect issue.
Some applications were built for older versions of Windows and may not interact properly with Windows 11 by default. The compatibility troubleshooter can automatically apply settings to improve compatibility. To run it:
Step 1. Right-click the problematic application’s shortcut or executable file.
Step 2. Select Properties, then open the Compatibility tab.
Step 3. Click Run compatibility troubleshooter, and select Troubleshoot program.
Step 4. Check The program worked in earlier versions of Windows but won't install or run now, and click Next.
Step 5. Apply the recommended settings to run the troubleshooter.
If core system files are corrupted, Windows may fail to load required Side-by-Side assemblies. Running DISM and SFC scans repairs the underlying Windows image and restores missing components. Use the following process:
Step 1. Type cmd in the Windows Search box, and click on Run as administrator from the results.
Step 2. Run the command below with Enter to repair the operating system's core image:
Step 3. When it completes, run sfc /scannow with Enter to launch the System File Checker tool to scan for and repair corrupted or missing protected system files. Then, type exit to end the process.
Windows updates often include fixes for runtime libraries, system components, and compatibility layers. Running an outdated Windows version can increase the chances of error - side by side configuration is incorrect on Windows 11.
Step 1. Open Settings and select Windows Update.
Step 2. Click Check for updates.
Step 3. Download and install all available updates.
While fixing errors is important, preventing data and software loss is just as critical. Reinstalling applications after system issues can be time-consuming, especially if licenses, configurations, or older installers are involved.
Using a reliable backup software like AOMEI Backupper Standard, you can make a backup copy of installed software in Windows 11. This ensures that installed software and system states can be restored quickly if errors like "this application has failed to start side by side" return after updates or changes.
Step 1. Open AOMEI Backupper, click Backup, and select System Backup. It will back up all the system partitions, including the installed programs.
Step 2. Choose a secure location as the destination path, such as an external drive or network location.
Step 3. Click Start Backup to back up installed software in Windows 11.
In most cases, the Side-by-Side Configuration is Incorrect error on Windows 11 stems from missing Visual C++ redistributables, outdated applications, or minor system corruption. By updating or repairing the affected app, installing the correct runtime libraries, running compatibility tools, repairing system files, and keeping Windows updated, the issue can be resolved effectively.
Also, it is highly recommended to use AOMEI Backupper Standard to create a system backup image, including the installed programs for recovery. It is free, simple to use, and offers various other functions like backing up files to external hard drive and syncing files from one computer to another.