How to fix
DCOM got error “1084” attempting to start the service
on Windows

Something happened to my computer and I couldn't boot into it - it simply froze when the Windows logo showed up. After several tries, I managed to get into a safe boot and noticed non-step errors saying DCOM got error "1084" attempting to start the service. Several different arguments are mentioned as being "Unavailable," such as ShellHWDetection, lfsvc, camsvc, and more. What is there to be done here?

DCMI stands for Distributed Component Object Model, which is an integral part of Windows that allows software components to communicate with each other across the network. This results in smooth functionality that facilitates application execution on other computers and services transparently.

Sometimes, DCOM fails one way or the other, which could be documented on Event Viewer as one of the DCOM errors called "1084," suggesting an attempt to start a service. This error will disturb the normal operation of a system and lead to other issues that affect application performance.

The DCOM got error "1084" is shown in Event Viewer when your system is trying to start a certain service that goes down during a startup. This usually happens when Windows boots in Safe Mode and runs only the necessary processes. This may also mean that the services or applications will not start as they should, potentially impeding the user's ability to work effectively. 

One of the most common causes of the DCOM got error "1084" is an issue with the service trying to start, such as it being disabled or corrupted. Conflicts with recent Windows updates or third-party software can also trigger this error. Additionally, problems with system files or the Windows registry may play a role, preventing the necessary components from launching correctly. In some cases, malware or security software can interfere with service startup, leading to this specific error.

To address the DCOM error "1084," different troubleshooting steps may be necessary, starting from checking for problematic services and adjusting their settings to more advanced methods like repairing system files or reconfiguring Windows services.

Below, you will find manual instructions that walk through these solutions, starting with the simplest approaches and moving to more complex fixes. For automatic resolution and repair of underlying Windows issues, using the [d1] repair tool can be an effective way to ensure system stability and prevent future errors.

Fix 1. Enable relevant services

Ensuring that necessary services related to DCOM are running can help resolve the error.

• Type in Services in Windows search and press Enter.
• Locate services like DCOM Server Process Launcher, RPC Endpoint Mapper, and any other service mentioned in the Event Viewer.
• Right-click each service, select Properties, and set the Startup type to Automatic.
• Click Start to run the service if it’s not already running.
• Click Apply and OK.

Fix 2. Check for Windows updates

Installing the latest Windows updates can resolve issues related to service conflicts or bugs.

• Type Updates in Windows search and hit Enter.
• If updates are available, click Install updates.
• Otherwise, click Check for updates.
• If optional updates are available, install them as well.
• When all the update processes are complete, restart your system.

Fix 3. Repair corrupted system files

Corrupted system files can contribute to the DCOM error "1084". Running SFC and DISM scans can identify and fix these issues.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
• When User Account Control window shows up, click Yes.
• Paste the following command into the new window:
  sfc /scannow
• Press Enter and wait till the scan is executed.
• Once done, run this set of commands, pressing Enter after each:
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  (Note: if you get an error executing this last command, add /Source:C:\RepairSource\Windows /LimitAccess to it and try again).
  
• Restart your system.

Fix 4. Reset Windows

If the error persists, resetting Windows while keeping your files can refresh system settings and fix deeper issues.

• Right-click on Start and pick Settings.
• Go to Windows Update/Update & Security.
• Select Advanced options.
• Under Additional options, select Recovery.
• Under Recovery options, click Reset PC.
• Select the option to Keep your files and then press Cloud download.
• Follow on-screen instructions to finish the process.

Fix 5. Use Media Creation Tool to repair Windows

Media Creation Tool can repair Windows without affecting your files and apps, which can help fix persistent DCOM errors.

• Visit the official Microsoft website and download Windows 10 installation media (Windows 11 version).
• Double-click the installer and select Yes when UAC shows up.
• Agree to terms.
• Select Upgrade this PC now and click Next.
• Windows will start downloading the needed files.
• Agree to the terms once again and click Next.
• Before installing, make sure that you are happy with your choices (otherwise, you can click Change what to keep option).
• Finally, click Install to begin the upgrade process.