How to Fix “Class Not Registered” Error in Movie Maker - Aim is Game

Windows Movie Maker was once one of the go-to applications for creating videos on Windows operating systems. Despite being discontinued, many users still rely on the software for basic video editing tasks due to its simplicity and accessibility. However, like all legacy software, Movie Maker is not immune to issues. One of the most common errors users encounter is the dreaded “Class Not Registered” error.

TL;DR: The “Class Not Registered” error in Movie Maker typically arises when the program can’t access or link a required system file or component. Fixing it involves registering missing DLL files, verifying default applications, updating relevant Microsoft components, and ensuring no corruption exists in system files. Most fixes are safe and easy to perform using administration privileges and basic troubleshooting steps.

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What Does “Class Not Registered” Mean?

This error occurs when a COM component (a system-level file or process required by Movie Maker) is missing or not properly registered in the Windows Registry. Since Movie Maker relies on shared Windows components like Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player, or DirectShow, any corruption or deregistration of associated .dll files can result in this issue.

Common Causes of the Error

Unregistered or missing .dll files
Corrupt Windows system files
Outdated or missing Windows components like Internet Explorer
Incorrect file associations for video or photo files
Interference from third-party software or antivirus programs

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing the Error

1. Re-register Required DLL Files

Start by manually registering key DLL files that Movie Maker may depend on:

Open the Command Prompt as Administrator.
Type the following command and press Enter after each:
- regsvr32 quartz.dll
- regsvr32 wmp.dll
If the registration is successful, you will see a confirmation prompt.

These files are integral for video playback and rendering, and re-registering them can restore functionality.

2. Set Internet Explorer as Default (for Legacy Compatibility)

Movie Maker, particularly older versions, depends on Internet Explorer. Setting it as the default browser can resolve registry linkage issues:

Go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps.
Under Web browser, select Internet Explorer (if available).

If Internet Explorer is not enabled:

Open the Control Panel.
Go to Programs and Features > Turn Windows features on or off.
Check Internet Explorer 11 and click OK.

3. Run System File Checker (SFC)

Corruption in system components could lead to this error. Running SFC can identify and restore missing or damaged files.

Launch the Command Prompt as Administrator.
Input the command:

sfc /scannow
The scan will take several minutes. Follow any instructions if corrupt files are found.

4. Install or Update Windows Media Player

Movie Maker uses Windows Media Player for audio and video rendering. If it’s missing or outdated, it could trigger the error.

Navigate to Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off.
Ensure Windows Media Player is checked.
Click OK and let the feature install or update.

5. Repair or Reinstall Movie Maker

If core files in Movie Maker are corrupted, reinstalling the app could be a quick fix:

Uninstall Movie Maker from the system if already installed.
Download the official Windows Essentials 2012 suite (archived from Microsoft).
During installation, select only Movie Maker to reduce bloating.

6. Use Windows Troubleshooter

The built-in Windows troubleshooter can solve file association or media playback problems:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
Click Additional troubleshooters.
Select and run Video Playback Troubleshooter.

7. Create a New Windows User Profile

Corrupt user profiles can occasionally cause system-level errors for certain applications. Creating a new account to test Movie Maker might isolate the issue.

Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
Click Add someone else to this PC.
Create a local account and test Movie Maker on it.

8. Restore Windows to an Earlier Date

If the issue emerged recently, restoring the system might undo problematic updates or changes:

Type System Restore into the Start Menu and open it.
Follow the prompts and select a restore point from before the error appeared.

Prevention Tips

Avoid uninstalling built-in Windows features like Internet Explorer and Windows Media Player.
Keep your OS updated to ensure registry integrity.
Use lightweight alternatives as Movie Maker is no longer officially supported.

Conclusion

The “Class Not Registered” error in Movie Maker is a registry-related issue typically caused by unregistered DLLs, missing dependencies, or corruption in system files. While the error may sound severe, most fixes are straightforward. It is important to approach each solution methodically and not rush into file deletions or third-party tools. Using the built-in tools and a bit of command-line knowledge, users can often resolve the issue without needing professional help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there any official support for Movie Maker now?: A: No. Microsoft officially discontinued support for Movie Maker in 2017. Users now have to rely on archived versions and community support.
Q: Can installing a newer video editor fix the issue?: A: While it won’t fix Movie Maker specifically, it may be a good alternative. Tools like Shotcut, OpenShot, or even Microsoft Clipchamp can serve as replacements.
Q: Is it safe to manually register DLLs using regsvr32?: A: Yes, provided you are using verified system DLLs. Stick to original Windows components and avoid third-party replacements.
Q: Does this error occur on Windows 10 or 11?: A: Yes, especially when trying to run older versions of Movie Maker that rely on outdated system links or components.
Q: Do I need to reinstall Windows to fix this problem?: A: Reinstallation is a last resort. Most users resolve the issue with system scans, DLL registration, or reinstallation of Movie Maker itself.