If you’ve encountered the frustrating Windows System Error Code ERROR_117, you’re not alone. This error can disrupt your workflow, prevent software installations, or cause programs to malfunction. But don’t worry — we’ve got your back. In this detailed, easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to fix ERROR_117 once and for all.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_117?
Before diving into solutions, let’s understand what this error means. ERROR_117 usually indicates an issue related to remote procedure calls or conflicts with system files and permissions. This could manifest when:
- Trying to install or update software.
- Running certain applications.
- Accessing specific system functions.
This error might show up with a message similar to:
"The remote procedure call failed and did not execute."
Understanding this helps tailor your troubleshooting approach.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, the simplest fix is the best. A quick restart can often resolve temporary glitches causing ERROR_117.
- Save all your work.
- Click the Start menu > Power > Restart.
- Once rebooted, try the action that caused the error to see if it persists.
If the error is still there, move on to the next step.
Step 2: Run the System File Checker (SFC) Tool
Corrupted or missing system files are common culprits behind ERROR_117. Windows includes a handy tool called System File Checker (SFC) that scans and repairs these files.
Here’s how to run it:
- Press Windows + S, type cmd.
- Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
-
In the command window, type the following and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- Wait patiently as Windows scans and repairs corrupted files. This can take several minutes.
- Once done, you’ll receive a message about whether any issues were found and fixed.
- Restart your PC and check if ERROR_117 is resolved.
Step 3: Check and Restart Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Service
Since ERROR_117 may relate to the Remote Procedure Call service, ensuring this service is running smoothly is vital.
Follow these steps to check and restart RPC:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type services.msc and hit Enter.
- In the Services window, scroll down to find Remote Procedure Call (RPC).
- Check that the Status is Running and the Startup Type is set to Automatic.
- If the service is stopped, right-click it and select Start.
- If Startup Type is not Automatic, right-click, choose Properties, and set it to Automatic.
- Similarly, find and check Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator service (optional—usually manual).
- After making sure RPC services are running, close the window and restart your computer.
Step 4: Update Windows and Drivers
Outdated operating systems or drivers can trigger various errors, including ERROR_117.
Update Windows:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- If updates are available, install all pending updates.
- Restart your PC after the update process.
Update Device Drivers:
- Open Device Manager by pressing Windows + X and choosing Device Manager.
- Look for devices with a yellow triangle warning icon—these may need updates.
- Right-click the device and select Update driver > Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow prompts to install updates.
- Restart your PC again.
Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot
Conflicts from third-party software or services can cause ERROR_117. Performing a clean boot helps identify if external programs are the issue.
How to clean boot your system:
- Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services at the bottom.
- Click Disable all to turn off third-party services temporarily.
- Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup programs you don’t recognize or don’t need right now.
- Close Task Manager and click OK on the System Configuration window.
- Restart your PC and check if the error returns.
If the error is gone, one of the disabled services or programs is causing it. You can re-enable them one-by-one to find the culprit.
Step 6: Use System Restore to Undo Recent Changes
If ERROR_117 started after a recent system change, System Restore can revert your PC back to normal.
To use System Restore:
- Search for Create a restore point in the Start menu and open it.
- Click System Restore.
- Choose a restore point dated before the error began.
- Follow the prompts to restore your system.
- Your PC will restart automatically.
Step 7: Contact Microsoft Support or IT Professional
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to seek professional help. Contact Microsoft Support directly or consult a trusted IT technician who can diagnose system-specific issues or perform advanced repairs.
Final Thoughts
Encountering ERROR_117 is undoubtedly frustrating, but with the right steps, it’s entirely fixable. Restart your PC, check system files and services, update your software, and isolate problematic programs with a clean boot. And always keep your system backed up — proactive care is the best defense against errors.
If this guide helped you fix ERROR_117, feel free to share it with others facing the same problem. Got questions or need further assistance? Drop a comment below — we’re here to help!
Keywords: Windows Error 117 fix, how to fix ERROR_117, Windows system error, RPC error, System file checker, Windows clean boot, Windows update, troubleshooting Windows errors
Happy computing! Stay patient, and you’ll have your Windows back to smooth operation in no time.
