If you’re encountering Windows Error Code ERROR_19, don’t worry—you’re not alone. This error often occurs due to conflicts or corrupted device driver settings in the Windows Registry, leading to hardware devices malfunctioning or not being recognized by your system. The good news is, with a little patience and the right steps, you can fix this error and get your system running smoothly again.
In this detailed, step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the causes of ERROR_19 and share practical methods to resolve it effectively. Let’s dive in!
What is Windows Error Code ERROR_19?
ERROR_19, which shows up as “Windows cannot start this hardware device because its configuration information (in the registry) is incomplete or damaged.”, is primarily related to device driver issues. It often appears in the Device Manager next to the problematic hardware device with a yellow warning icon.
Common causes include:
- Corrupted or conflicting registry entries.
- Faulty or outdated device drivers.
- Conflicts between multiple devices.
- Recent hardware changes or Windows updates.
Step 1: Back Up Your Registry and Important Data
Before making any changes, it’s essential to back up your system. Modifying the registry incorrectly can cause serious problems.
How to Back Up the Registry:
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor. - Click File > Export.
- Choose a safe location, name the file (e.g.,
RegistryBackup), and make sure "All" is selected under Export range. - Click Save.
Additionally, back up your important files to an external drive or cloud storage for safety.
Step 2: Uninstall and Reinstall the Problematic Device Driver
Sometimes, reinstalling the device driver can resolve ERROR_19.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Locate the device showing ERROR_19 (yellow triangle with an exclamation mark).
- Right-click the device and choose Uninstall device.
- In the prompt, check Delete the driver software for this device if available.
- Restart your computer.
- Windows should attempt to reinstall the device and correct the error.
Tip: You can also visit the hardware manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver manually for better results.
Step 3: Fix the Registry by Using Registry Editor
The ERROR_19 is often caused by corrupted or conflicting entries in your registry.
How to Fix the Registry:
- Open Registry Editor (
Windows + R, then typeregedit). -
Navigate to the following path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\
-
Look for the key matching your device’s Class GUID (hardware classes like USB, network, display, etc.).
- You can identify the device’s Class GUID by looking up the “Class” under device properties in Device Manager.
- Inside the Class key, find the problematic device’s entries such as
UpperFiltersandLowerFilters. - Right-click on UpperFilters and LowerFilters (if they exist) and select Delete.
Important: Only delete these values if you are sure they belong to the problematic device. Deleting the wrong registry keys can harm your system.
- Restart your PC to apply the changes.
Step 4: Run the Windows Troubleshooter
Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can automatically detect and fix hardware and device-related issues.
How to Run:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Click Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Hardware and Devices and click Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Restart the system after the troubleshooter finishes.
Step 5: Update Windows and Device Drivers
Often, Microsoft releases patches and driver updates to fix hardware issues.
How to Update:
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
- After rebooting, repeat driver updates via Device Manager.
Step 6: Perform a System Restore (If Problem Persists)
If ERROR_19 started recently after a system change, performing a System Restore to a previous working state can solve the problem.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
rstrui, and press Enter. - Choose a restore point dated before ERROR_19 appeared.
- Follow the prompts to restore your system.
- Restart and check if the error is resolved.
Bonus Tips to Prevent ERROR_19
- Keep drivers and Windows updated regularly.
- Avoid installing unknown third-party software or drivers.
- Always safely eject hardware devices.
- Create regular system restore points for safety.
- Use reliable antivirus software to prevent system corruption.
Final Thoughts
Windows Error Code ERROR_19 can be frustrating but is usually fixable through careful troubleshooting. Whether it’s through updating drivers, cleaning up the registry, or restoring your system, the key is to take caution and back up your data first.
If you follow this guide step-by-step, you will likely resolve the issue and restore your device’s functionality.
If problems persist, consider reaching out to technical support or visiting Microsoft’s official help forums for further assistance.
Did this guide help you fix ERROR_19? Drop your experience or questions in the comments below—your insights could help others!
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Thank you for reading! Stay tuned for more easy and effective Windows troubleshooting guides.
