How to Fix OneNote Unknown Software Exception 0xe0000002
Question details
The user needs to resolve a recurring application crash in OneNote that triggers a specific software exception when using digital drawing tools.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Changing pen colors or using the panning tool while taking notes.
- Observed behavior
- OneNote displays a HardwareMonitorWindow application error with exception code 0xe0000002 and subsequently crashes.
Before proceeding with any app resets or troubleshooting steps, log in to OneNote.com via your web browser to confirm that all your recent notes are fully synced to the cloud.
Reset OneNote for Windows 10 via Settings
Resetting the application clears corrupt temporary data and local cache that may be triggering the HardwareMonitorWindow crash.
This process will reset the app to its default state. Ensure your notes are synced online beforehand, as local unsynced data will be removed during the reset.
Click the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Windows Settings.
Click on 'Apps' and then select 'Apps & features' from the left sidebar.
Scroll down the list of installed applications, find 'OneNote for Windows 10', and click on it to reveal additional options.
Click 'Advanced options', scroll down to the Reset section, and click the 'Reset' button. Confirm the action when prompted.
Create a New Windows User Profile
Testing the application in a fresh user profile determines if the exception is caused by user-specific OS corruption.
Switch to the Standalone Desktop Version
If the Windows 10 UWP app continues to crash, the traditional desktop version of OneNote offers a different software architecture that is often more stable.
Experience Stable Document Editing with WPS Office
If Microsoft Office applications frequently crash or display hardware exceptions, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly stable environment for all your document, spreadsheet, and presentation needs without compromising on features.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the quick setup wizard to install WPS Office on your device.
- 3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and seamlessly open any of your existing Office documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does OneNote crash with error 0xe0000002 when I change pen colors?
This specific HardwareMonitorWindow exception is usually caused by a graphical rendering glitch or corrupt temporary app data in the OneNote for Windows 10 app when interacting with the digital ink API.
Will resetting OneNote delete my existing notebooks?
Resetting the app only deletes local app data and preferences on your device. Any notes that have successfully synced to OneNote.com will remain safe and will reload once you sign back into the application.
What is the difference between OneNote for Windows 10 and the desktop version?
OneNote for Windows 10 is a UWP (Universal Windows Platform) app designed for touch devices, whereas the desktop version is a traditional Win32 application. The desktop version often provides better stability for complex inputs and supports local file storage.
