Error Code 4 specifically translates to an issue. In the 2021+ versions of x360ce, the application uses a Virtual Bus Driver (ViGEmBus) to spoof an official Xbox 360 controller.
Search for configuration configuration logs like OnlineFix.ini or x360ce.ini and delete them.
If running as admin didn't work, the virtual driver itself is likely the culprit. Here’s how to give it a fresh start.
Right-click x360ce.exe → . This gives it permission to write DLLs and hook into processes. self protection failed error code 4 x360ce 2021
Go to > Manage settings (under Virus & threat protection settings).
When you see Error Code 4, it means the x360ce application is failing its internal security and integrity checks. This happens for three primary reasons:
If you are using a 2021 or older version of x360ce, you might be using the older "munged" DLL injection method. Modern versions of x360ce utilize a global virtual driver called (Virtual Gamepad Emulation Bus). If the standalone app keeps failing, consider these steps: Error Code 4 specifically translates to an issue
The "Self protection failed error code 4" is rarely a sign of hardware failure or broken software; it is simply Windows doing its job too well. By isolating x360ce into its own folder, granting it administrative rights, and ensuring your virtual drivers are pristine, you can permanently bypass this error.
Open the x360ce app (ignore the error for a moment if it lets you access the UI). Go to the or Issues tab.
: Windows heavily restricts standard user profiles from altering files deep inside the Program Files directory or writing memory overrides. Step-by-Step Fixes for Error Code 4 If running as admin didn't work, the virtual
What are you currently running (Windows 10 or Windows 11)? Are you using the 64-bit or 32-bit version of the game? Which antivirus software do you have active? Share public link
The newer versions of x360ce have a built-in diagnostic tool designed to automatically patch these errors. Open as an administrator. Look at the top menu tabs and click on the Issues tab.
Extract the x360ce.exe directly into the game directory where the main .exe file of your game lives.
Alex didn't give up. Following advice from forums like Reddit and GitHub , they followed these steps to get back into the game: