Claude Code "This App Can't Run on Your PC" Windows Error Fix

Claude Code's update mechanism creates a 0-byte claude.exe file while renaming the working executable to a backup filename. Windows can't run the 0-byte file.

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The Bug

Update process renames working claude.exe to backup name, then creates new claude.exe that ends up 0 bytes. Happens on /exit command.

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Fix

1. Navigate to %USERPROFILE%\.claude\bin\
2. Delete the 0-byte claude.exe
3. Rename the backup file (e.g., claude.exe.old) to claude.exe

Commands: cd %USERPROFILE%\.claude\bin\ → del claude.exe → ren claude.exe.old claude.exe

Bug repeats on next /exit.

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Alternative: VS Code Extension

Install Claude Code VS Code extension to avoid this bug entirely.

1. Download VS Code from code.visualstudio.com
2. Install Claude Code extension (Ctrl+Shift+X → Search "Claude Code")
3. Authenticate with your Anthropic account

Same functionality, no update bugs.

Windows Update Bug

Update mechanism creates 0-byte executables. Fix by renaming backup file or switch to VS Code extension.

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Run multiple autonomous coding agents simultaneously with Verdent Deck's isolated Git worktrees. Each agent tackles different components while maintaining full context awareness, eliminating manual debugging bottlenecks and accelerating feature delivery. Discover Verdent AI (Free Trial)

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See Also: Troubleshooting Guide|Is Claude Down|VS Code Extension Setup