SkyUI is one of the most essential mods for The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, providing a much-improved user interface that enhances the overall gameplay experience. However, many users encounter the dreaded SkyUI Error Code 1 when launching Skyrim with the mod installed. This error prevents the SkyUI mod from functioning correctly, often frustrating players who rely on it.
If you’re facing this issue, don’t worry. This guide will walk you through the most effective solutions to fix SkyUI Error Code 1 quickly and get back to enjoying your game with a smoother interface.
What Causes SkyUI Error Code 1?
SkyUI Error Code 1 typically occurs when Skyrim Script Extender (SKSE) isn’t installed or isn’t running properly. SKSE is required for SkyUI to work, and without it, you’ll encounter this error upon launching the game.
The main reasons why you might see this error include:
- SKSE is not installed or incorrectly installed: SkyUI relies on SKSE to function properly.
- You are not launching Skyrim through SKSE: Running the game via the standard launcher instead of SKSE can trigger the error.
- Administrator permissions are required: If SKSE does not have the necessary permissions, it may fail to work.
- A corrupted or outdated SKSE version: Using an outdated version may cause compatibility issues.
How to Fix SkyUI Error Code 1
Below are the most effective fixes for SkyUI Error Code 1:
1. Install Skyrim Script Extender (SKSE) Properly
The most common cause of this error is an incorrectly installed SKSE. Follow these steps to install it correctly:
- Go to the official SKSE website.
- Download the correct version of SKSE that matches your Skyrim version (either the Classic or Special Edition).
- Extract the downloaded file and open the extracted folder.
- Copy the following files to your Skyrim installation folder (where the game’s .exe file is located):
skse64_loader.exe
skse64_steam_loader.dll
skse64_1_5.dll
- Inside the
Data
folder, transfer thescripts
folder to Skyrim’sData
directory. - Ensure SKSE is installed correctly by launching the game using
skse64_loader.exe
.

2. Always Launch Skyrim Using SKSE
Even if SKSE is installed correctly, launching the game improperly can still trigger Error Code 1. Instead of using the regular game launcher, follow these steps:
- Navigate to your Skyrim installation folder.
- Locate
skse64_loader.exe
and double-click it to launch the game. - If using a mod manager like MO2 or Vortex, ensure SKSE is set as the primary launch option.
This ensures that SkyUI has access to the necessary script extensions required for it to function.
3. Run SKSE as Administrator
Sometimes, insufficient permissions prevent SKSE from running properly. To fix this:
- Go to your Skyrim installation folder.
- Right-click
skse64_loader.exe
and select Properties. - Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check the box for Run this program as an administrator.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Try launching the game again using
skse64_loader.exe
.

4. Ensure You Have the Correct SKSE Version
If you recently updated Skyrim, your SKSE installation might be outdated. Check the version of your game by:
- Opening the Skyrim launcher.
- Going to the bottom-left corner where the game version is displayed.
- Comparing it with the latest SKSE version available on the official SKSE website.
If there’s a discrepancy, download and install the matching SKSE version as detailed in the first step.
5. Disable Mods That Conflict with SkyUI
Some mods might interfere with SkyUI, causing Error Code 1. To check:
- Open your mod manager (MO2, Vortex, or another).
- Temporarily disable all mods except SkyUI.
- Launch the game with SKSE and check if the error persists.
- If the error disappears, enable mods one by one to identify the conflicting mod.

Conclusion
SkyUI Error Code 1 can be an annoying roadblock, but with the right approach, it’s easy to fix. Ensuring SKSE is installed and launching Skyrim properly are the most effective solutions. Additionally, running SKSE with administrator privileges, using the correct SKSE version, and checking for conflicting mods can help resolve the problem.
By following these steps carefully, you should be able to enjoy Skyrim with SkyUI without any issues. Happy modding!