Top 10 Windows Error Codes: How to Fix

Windows operating systems are widely used globally, offering a user-friendly interface and many features. However, like any complex software, Windows can encounter errors that may disrupt your computing experience. The cryptic error codes that frequently accompany these errors leave many users baffled.

Top 10 Windows error codes

This comprehensive guide delves into the top 10 Windows error codes that users commonly encounter. We’ll decipher these error codes and provide step-by-step solutions to fix them. Additionally, we’ll address frequently asked questions about Windows errors to equip you with the knowledge to troubleshoot effectively.

Blue Screen of Death (BSOD): Error Code: 0x0000007B

The infamous Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is an error that forces your computer to shut down abruptly. One of the most common BSOD error codes is 0x0000007B. Typically, problems with the system’s boot process—such as incorrect BIOS settings, corrupted drivers, or defective hardware—are to blame for this error.

Error Code: 0x0000007B Solution:

• Check hardware connections and ensure all components are securely connected.
• Update or reinstall device drivers, especially storage-related drivers.
• Verify and correct the BIOS settings to ensure compatibility with the installed hardware.

Driver-related Error: Error Code: 0x000000C4

Error code 0x000000C4 typically occurs when there’s an issue with installed drivers or when a driver tries to access an inappropriate memory area. This error can lead to system instability and unexpected crashes.

Error Code: 0x000000C4 Solution:

• Update all drivers to their latest versions from the manufacturer’s website.
• Use the Device Manager to roll back or uninstall problematic drivers.
• If recently installed hardware, try removing it to see if the error persists.

Windows Update Error: Error Code: 0x8024402C

Error 0x8024402C is related to Windows Update and commonly occurs when the update service encounters difficulties connecting to the update servers. This can lead to failed update installations, leaving your system vulnerable to security threats.

Error Code: 0x8024402C Solution:

• Check your internet connection to ensure it’s stable.
• Temporarily disable any firewall or antivirus that may block the update process.
• Reset the Windows Update components using the Command Prompt.

File Corruption Error: Error Code: 0x80070570

Error code 0x80070570 indicates that a file or directory within the installation is corrupt. This error often occurs during operating system installations or when copying files.

Error Code: 0x80070570 Solution:

• Verify the integrity of the installation media, whether it’s a CD, DVD, or USB drive.
• Check your RAM using the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool, as faulty RAM can cause file corruption during installation.
• Copy the installation files to a different location and attempt the installation again.

DLL File Missing: Error Code: 0x8007007E

Error 0x8007007E is a common issue when a Dynamic Link Library (DLL) file is missing or not registered correctly. DLL files contain essential functions and data that multiple programs can use simultaneously.

Error Code: 0x8007007E Solution:

• Use the System File Checker (SFC) tool to scan and restore missing or corrupted DLL files.
• Reinstall the software associated with the missing DLL file.
• Use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool to repair the Windows image.

Application Compatibility Error: Error Code: 0xC0000005

Error 0xC0000005 is a standard application error that indicates an “Access Violation.” This occurs when a program tries to access memory that it doesn’t have permission to access.

Error Code: 0xC0000005 Solution:

• Check for software updates or patches from the application’s developer.
• Run the application in compatibility mode for an older version of Windows.
• Disable Data Execution Prevention (DEP) for the specific application.

Low Disk Space (Error Code: 0x80070070)

Error 0x80070070 appears when you’re trying to install or update software but don’t have enough free space on your disk.

Error Code: 0x80070070 Solution:

• Free up disk space by deleting unnecessary files and programs.
• Use Disk Cleanup to remove temporary and junk files.
• Consider using external storage or upgrading to a larger hard drive.

Windows Activation Error: Error Code: 0xC004C008

Error 0xC004C008 indicates that there’s an issue with Windows activation. It usually arises when the system believes that the key used for activation is invalid or has been used on multiple devices.

Error Code: 0xC004C008 Solution:

• Double-check the product key to ensure it’s entered correctly.
• Contact Microsoft Support for assistance in activating Windows.
• If the key was provided with your device, contact the device manufacturer for help.

Windows Boot Manager Error: Error Code: 0xc0000225

Error 0xc0000225 occurs when the Windows Boot Manager encounters issues while trying to boot the operating system. Hardware failure, issues with the boot configuration data (BCD), or missing or corrupt system files are possible causes.

Error Code: 0xc0000225 Solution:

• Use the Windows installation media to perform Startup Repair.
• Rebuild the BCD using the Command Prompt.
• Test your hardware components for potential failures.

Application Crash: Error Code: 0xC000000D

Error 0xC000000D signifies a STATUS_INVALID_PARAMETER error, often occurring when an application receives an invalid parameter during execution.

Error Code: 0xC000000D Solution:

• Update the application to its latest version or check for patches.
• Verify that your system meets the minimum requirements for the application.
• Check for conflicting software that may interfere with the application’s execution.

How Do I Fix Windows 10 Errors?

Fixing Windows 10 errors can be a multi-step process, depending on the specific error you encounter. Here is a general troubleshooting guide to help you address common Windows 10 errors:

Update Windows:

Ensure that your Windows 10 operating system is up to date. Microsoft regularly releases updates that include bug fixes and improvements. To check for updates:

• Click on the Start menu, then go to Settings (the gear icon).
• Click on “Update & Security,” then select “Windows Update.”
• Click on “Check for updates” and install any available updates.

Restart Your Computer:

• A simple restart can sometimes resolve various issues, including temporary software glitches.

Use Windows Troubleshooters:

Windows 10 has built-in troubleshooters for specific problems. To access them:

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
• Select the troubleshooter related to your issue and follow the on-screen instructions.

Check Event Viewer:

The Event Viewer logs various events and errors on your system. To access it:

• Press Windows key + R, type “eventvwr.msc,” and hit Enter.
• Look for errors or warnings in the different categories and use this information to troubleshoot.

Check Device Manager:

Issues with hardware devices can cause errors. To access Device Manager:

• Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager.”
• Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark indicating a problem.
• Right-click the device, choose “Update driver,” and follow the prompts.

Run System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM):

SFC and DISM are built-in tools to check and repair system file corruption. Here’s how to use them:

• Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
• For SFC, type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any repair instructions.
• For DISM, type “DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth” and press Enter. Allow the process to finish.

Check the disk for Errors:

Disk errors can cause instability and errors. To check and repair disk errors:

• Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Type “chkdsk /f” for the system drive (usually C:) and press Enter.
• Follow the prompts to schedule the disk check, then restart your computer.

Uninstall Problematic Applications or Updates:

If an error started occurring after installing a particular application or update, consider removing it:

• Go to Settings > Apps > Apps and Features.
• Select the application or update, click “Uninstall,” and follow the prompts.

Disable Startup Programs:

Sometimes, third-party programs set to run at startup can cause conflicts. To disable startup programs:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
• Go to the “Startup” tab, right-click on any unnecessary programs, and choose “Disable.”

Perform a System Restore or Reset:

If none of the above solutions work, try a System Restore to revert your system to a previous working state or perform a Windows 10 Reset to reinstall Windows while keeping your files.

These steps are general guidelines and may not cover all Windows 10 errors. If you encounter a specific error code, it’s essential to research that particular error for more targeted solutions. Additionally, always back up your important data before any significant troubleshooting or system changes. If the issue persists or you are uncertain about performing any steps, it’s best to seek professional assistance from a computer technician or Microsoft support.

How to Fix the Code 19 Error:

Code 19 is a standard error related to the Windows registry and device drivers. It indicates a problem with the registry entries for a particular hardware device, such as a CD/DVD drive or USB device. To fix the Code 19 error, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Device Manager

• Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager.”
• Look for the device with the Code 19 error in the Device Manager window. It will typically have a yellow exclamation mark next to it.

Step 2: Uninstall the Problematic Device

• Right-click on the device with the Code 19 error and select “Uninstall device.”
• Confirm the action if prompted.

Step 3: Restart Your Computer

• After uninstalling the device, restart your computer. Windows will automatically detect and reinstall the device.

Step 4: Update Device Drivers

• In some cases, outdated or incompatible drivers may be to blame for the Code 19 error. To update drivers, go back to Device Manager.
• Right-click on the device and select “Update driver.”
• Choose the option to search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will search for the latest drivers and install them.

Step 5: Check the Registry (Advanced users only)

• If the error persists, there may be an issue with the registry entries for the device. Editing the registry requires caution, as incorrect changes can cause system instability.
• Before proceeding, back up your registry or create a system restore point.
• Press the Windows key + R, type “regedit,” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
• Navigate to the following key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class{4D36E965-E325-11CE-BFC1-08002BE10318}
• Look for UpperFilters and LowerFilters entries in the right pane. If they exist, right-click on them and select “Delete.”
• Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

Code 31 Error for Windows:

Code 31 is an error that appears in Device Manager and indicates that the device drivers for a particular hardware device are not working correctly. This error can occur for various reasons, such as driver conflicts, corruption, or missing files.

To fix the Code 31 error:

• Open Device Manager and find the device with the Code 31 error.
• Right-click on the device and select “Uninstall device.”
• Restart your computer. Windows will automatically attempt to reinstall the drivers.

If the error persists, try updating the drivers as mentioned in Step 4 of the Code 19 error fix. If that doesn’t work, you may need to download and install the latest drivers from the device manufacturer’s website or contact their support for further assistance.

Code 28 Error on Windows 10:

A Code 28 error in Device Manager indicates that the drivers for a specific device are not installed. This could happen if you plug in a new device that Windows cannot automatically recognize or if the drivers are outdated or corrupted.

To fix the Code 28 error:

• Open Device Manager and locate the device with the Code 28 error.
• Right-click on the device and select “Update driver.”
• Choose the option to search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will attempt to find and install the appropriate drivers.

If Windows cannot find the drivers or the error persists:

• Visit the device manufacturer’s website and look for the latest drivers for your device.
• Download and install the drivers manually.

Remember to restart your computer after installing or updating drivers to ensure the changes take effect. If you continue to experience issues, consider seeking help from the manufacturer’s support or a professional technician.

Conclusion:

Windows errors can be frustrating, but with knowledge of the top 10 error codes and their solutions, you can troubleshoot effectively and maintain a stable computing environment. Remember to exercise caution when making changes to your system and always back up critical data before attempting any repairs. Following the steps outlined in this guide and staying vigilant, you’ll be better equipped to handle Windows errors and enjoy a smoother computing experience.

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