Windows System Error Code ERROR_120 can be a frustrating issue to encounter. This error, often related to the system’s inability to perform specific commands or operations due to conflicts or corrupted files, can disrupt your workflow and productivity. Don’t worry — in this comprehensive, step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through practical solutions to troubleshoot and fix ERROR_120 efficiently.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_120?
ERROR_120 is typically associated with the Windows system’s failure to execute certain commands, often linked to network issues, service failures, or system process conflicts. It may show up during startup, application installations, or running specific programs, blocking your progress until resolved.
Common Symptoms of ERROR_120:
- Error message displaying “ERROR_120” or “System error code 120”
- Applications freezing or crashing unexpectedly
- Delay or failure when accessing network resources
- System commands failing to execute
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
It may sound mundane, but the simplest fix often works wonders. Restarting your system can clear temporary glitches or conflicts causing the error.
How to Restart:
- Click the Start menu.
- Select the Power icon.
- Click Restart.
Pro Tip: After rebooting, check if ERROR_120 still appears. If yes, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Run Windows System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted or missing system files are one of the primary culprits behind ERROR_120. Running the System File Checker utility scans and repairs these files automatically.
How to Run SFC:
- Press Windows + S and type cmd.
- Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
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In the Command Prompt window, type the following and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the process to complete (this may take some time).
- Once done, restart your computer.
Note: If the tool finds errors but cannot fix them, you might need to run the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) – see Step 4.
Step 3: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft frequently releases updates to fix bugs and improve system stability. Installing the latest updates can resolve ERROR_120 if it’s related to outdated system components.
How to Update Windows:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates.
- Restart your PC after updating.
Step 4: Use DISM Tool to Repair Windows Image
If SFC couldn’t fix the problem, DISM is your next best bet. It repairs the underlying Windows image files which may be causing the error.
How to Run DISM:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
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Type the following command and press Enter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Wait for the process to complete.
- Restart your PC and check if the issue persists.
Step 5: Check Network and Service Settings
Since ERROR_120 can be linked to network services, ensuring these services are running properly is essential.
Steps to Verify Services:
- Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
- In the Services list, look for:
- Network Connections
- Windows Update
- Background Intelligent Transfer Service
- Ensure these are set to Automatic and are running. To do this:
- Right-click the service, select Properties.
- Set Startup type to Automatic.
- If the service status is not “Running,” click Start.
- Restart your computer.
Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot
Sometimes, third-party applications or startup programs conflict with your system operations, causing ERROR_120. A clean boot helps identify and eliminate these conflicts.
How to Perform a Clean Boot:
- Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
- Switch to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
- Restart your PC.
Tip: If the error disappears, gradually re-enable services and startup apps to identify the culprit.
Step 7: Scan for Malware
Malware infections might cause system errors by corrupting files or interfering with services.
How to Scan:
- Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
- Click Virus & threat protection.
- Select Quick scan or, for thoroughness, Full scan.
- Follow prompts to remove detected threats.
Step 8: Restore Your System Using System Restore
If ERROR_120 started recently, restoring your system to a previous working state might be the way to go.
How to Use System Restore:
- Type Create a restore point in the search menu and open it.
- Click System Restore.
- Follow the wizard to select a restore point dated before the error appeared.
- Confirm and let Windows restore your system.
Step 9: Seek Expert Help or Reinstall Windows
If none of the above steps resolve ERROR_120, consider contacting Microsoft Support or a trusted technician. In some cases, a clean Windows installation might be necessary.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with Windows System Error Code ERROR_120 can feel overwhelming, but with patience and systematic troubleshooting, it’s usually fixable. Remember to back up your important files before making major system changes, and take a deep breath — you’ve got this!
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or colleagues who might also benefit. Got questions or tips of your own? Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear your experience.
Keywords: Windows error 120, fix system error 120, ERROR_120 troubleshoot, how to repair Windows error 120, system file checker, DISM tool, clean boot Windows, Windows update error fix, malware scan Windows
Author’s Note:
I understand how annoying it can be when your computer throws errors unexpectedly. This guide is designed to walk you through every step with clarity and care, so you feel supported throughout the process. Happy troubleshooting!
