Self Protection Failed Error Code 4 - X360ce 2021

Delete x360ce.ini , x360ce.xml , and any generated xinput DLL files (e.g., xinput1_3.dll ). Reopen x360ce.exe as an administrator.

Sometimes, the emulation hook needs to be manually configured to avoid being detected as a threat. Open x360ce.ini in Notepad.

Look for in the list. If it exists, right-click and Uninstall it. Restart your computer.

Follow these troubleshooting steps in order to resolve the issue. 1. Run x360ce as an Administrator self protection failed error code 4 x360ce 2021

Understanding and Resolving "Self Protection Failed: Error Code 4"

Unlike older versions (3.x) that relied on placing a xinput1_3.dll file directly into the game folder, the newer x360ce application creates a virtual Xbox 360 controller at the system level. To achieve this, it installs a virtual bus driver called (Virtual Gamepad Emulation Bus).

Moving the software out of protected system directories often bypasses the error. Delete x360ce

This prevents the emulator from hooking into the game, and the controller is not recognized.

Windows has built-in security mitigations that block apps from executing certain self-protection routines. Open . Click on App & browser control .

Appendix — Suggested Log Fields to Add (for maintainers) Open x360ce

If you have placed the x360ce executable inside heavily protected system folders like C:\Program Files or C:\Program Files (x86) , Windows UAC (User Account Control) will continuously block its self-protection routines.

Windows Defender or third-party antivirus software flags x360ce's hardware hooking behavior as malicious activity.