Windows Defender can block DLL injection:
Additional Tips
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the Self Protection Failed Error Code 4 with x360ce in 2021. If the issue persists, consider seeking help from the x360ce community forums or support channels. Happy gaming!
I have designed this to be posted on forums like the x360ce Official Forum, Reddit, or Steam Discussions.
Subject: [Help] x360ce Error: "Self protection failed (Error code 4)" on Windows 10/11 self protection failed error code 4 x360ce 2021
Body:
System Specifications:
Description of the Issue: I am encountering a critical error when trying to initialize x360ce. Upon launching the application (or the game), I receive the following pop-up message:
"Self protection failed. Error code: 4"
This prevents the emulator from hooking into the game, and the controller is not recognized. Windows Defender can block DLL injection: Additional Tips
Steps I Have Already Tried:
Request: Could someone explain what "Error code 4" specifically refers to in this context? Is this related to the Virtual Bus Driver or a conflict with another hooking software (like Discord Overlay or NVIDIA GeForce Experience)?
Any guidance would be appreciated. I have attached a screenshot of the error below.
(Provide these when asking for help on forums)
Important: After fixing, you can re-enable antivirus and Memory integrity – but you may need to repeat the admin run each time you use x360ce. Conclusion By following these steps, you should be
The "Self Protection Failed Error Code 4" is a common issue encountered when using x360ce (Xbox 360 Controller Emulator), particularly with 2021 releases and online multiplayer fixes. It typically occurs when the software's security or integrity checks are blocked by system settings or antivirus programs. Review Summary: x360ce Error Code 4
While x360ce is a powerful tool for mapping generic controllers to XInput-supported games, the "Error Code 4" remains a frustrating barrier for users. This error often appears when the application cannot initialize its self-protection routine, frequently due to Windows Security flagging it as suspicious or conflicting with Online-Fix libraries in games like Elden Ring or Phasmophobia. Common Causes
"Self protection failed: error code 4" x360ce (2021/Version 4.x)
a common conflict that typically arises when the software attempts to hook into a game that has active security or firewall restrictions . This error often occurs when using with modified game files or "online fixes". Quick Fixes Run as Administrator : Right-click the x360ce.exe (or the game's if they are in the same folder) and select Run as Administrator Check File Integrity : Antivirus software sometimes deletes critical
files required for the emulator to function. Check your quarantine or re-extract the x360ce files into the game's directory. Primary Solution: Firewall Block Strategy
Many users have found that blocking the game's connection through the Windows Defender Firewall prevents the "Self Protection" module from failing. Windows Defender Firewall from your Start menu and select Advanced Settings on the left. Inbound Rules