Encountering a Windows system error can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts your workflow or prevents access to important applications. One such error returned by the system is Error Code 18. If you’ve come across this error and need a clear, understandable way to fix it, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Error Code 18 on Windows and show you detailed, easy-to-follow steps to resolve it.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_18?
Error Code 18 in Windows is often described as:
"No more files."
This error usually indicates that the system or a program has reached the end of files in a directory or there’s an issue preventing proper file access or enumeration. It frequently appears when devices or drivers can’t communicate correctly or when file handling hits a snag.
Why Am I Seeing Error Code 18?
The common causes for Error Code 18 include:
- Corrupted or outdated device drivers
- Issues with external USB devices or storage media
- Conflicts between system files or registry issues
- File system corruption or disk errors
- Problems with software or system updates
By understanding these causes, we can approach the solution methodically.
How to Fix Windows System Error Code ERROR_18: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Before diving into advanced solutions, try restarting your PC. Many system errors are temporary and get resolved on reboot.
- Click Start > Power > Restart
- After rebooting, check if the error persists.
Step 2: Disconnect and Reconnect External Devices
If Error 18 occurs during the use of external hardware (USB drives, external hard disks):
- Safely eject the device.
- Disconnect it from your PC.
- Wait for about 30 seconds.
- Reconnect the device to a different USB port if possible.
- Check to see if the error appears again.
Sometimes simple re-connection resolves communication errors.
Step 3: Update or Reinstall Device Drivers
Since device driver issues are common causes, updating or reinstalling drivers can help:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Find the device associated with the error (look for any with a yellow exclamation mark).
- Right-click the device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- If no updates are found or the issue persists:
- Right-click the device again.
- Select Uninstall device and confirm.
- Restart your computer; Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.
Tip: Visit the manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers available.
Step 4: Run the Windows Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Windows offers troubleshooting tools that target hardware issues:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Click Additional troubleshooters.
- Find and run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
This tool identifies and fixes common hardware-related problems.
Step 5: Check Disk for Errors
Disk errors or corrupted files can trigger Error Code 18. Running a Check Disk scan may help.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator:
- Press Windows + S, type
cmd. - Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
- Press Windows + S, type
-
Type the following command and press Enter:
chkdsk C: /f /r
- It may ask you to schedule the scan at the next restart; type Y and press Enter.
- Restart your computer to allow chkdsk to scan and repair.
This process can fix many file system and disk-related errors.
Step 6: Perform System File Checker (SFC) Scan
Corrupted system files often cause various errors.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
-
Type:
sfc /scannow
- Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete.
- If any corrupted files are found, the tool will automatically repair them.
- Restart your PC and check if the error has gone.
Step 7: Run the DISM Tool
To repair deeper Windows image corruption that SFC cannot fix:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
-
Type the following commands one at a time and press Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Wait while DISM scans and repairs your system.
Step 8: Check for Windows Updates
Some errors result from outdated system components.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates and reboot.
Step 9: Perform a System Restore (Optional)
If Error 18 began recently, reverting your computer to an earlier state can help.
- Search Create a restore point in the Start menu.
- Click System Restore.
- Follow the wizard to choose a restore point before the error appeared.
- Complete the process and restart your PC.
Bonus Tips to Prevent Error Code 18 in the Future
- Regularly update device drivers and Windows OS.
- Avoid forcibly unplugging external devices.
- Run regular disk checks.
- Maintain backups of important files.
- Use reliable antivirus software to protect system files.
Final Thoughts
Error Code 18 might seem cryptic, but with a bit of patience and these practical steps, you can fix it yourself without needing professional help. Always start with simple solutions like rebooting and reconnecting devices before moving on to more advanced troubleshooting.
If after all these steps the error persists, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support or a trusted technician for deeper diagnosis.
FAQs About Windows System Error Code ERROR_18
Q: Is Error Code 18 serious?
A: It usually isn’t critical but may interfere with device or file operations until fixed.
Q: Can I fix Error Code 18 without technical knowledge?
A: Yes! Many steps in this guide are beginner-friendly.
Q: Will reinstalling Windows fix this?
A: As a last resort, reinstalling Windows can fix system-related errors but should be done after trying less invasive methods.
Thank you for reading! If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends experiencing Windows errors. Stay safe and keep your PC running smoothly!
