If you’ve run into the frustrating Windows ERROR_355, you’re not alone. This error can disrupt your work, stall your system processes, and leave you scratching your head. But don’t worry — I’m here to guide you through the troubleshooting process with clear, easy-to-follow steps. Let’s get your system back on track!
What is Windows ERROR_355?
ERROR_355 is a less common but critical Windows error that generally indicates a “Service Already Running” issue. It occurs when a system or application service tries to start, but Windows detects that the service is already active. This conflict can stem from software glitches, corrupted service settings, or conflicts due to updates and misconfigurations.
Why Should You Fix ERROR_355?
- Prevents system services from running smoothly
- Stops applications dependent on affected services from working properly
- Avoids potential system instability or crashes
- Helps maintain optimal performance and security
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Windows ERROR_355
Step 1: Identify the Service Causing the Error
Before diving into fixes, it’s essential to know which service is triggering ERROR_355.
- Press
Windows + R, typeeventvwr.msc, and hit Enter to open Event Viewer. - In the left pane, expand Windows Logs and click on System.
- Look for recent error entries that mention ERROR_355 or related service failures.
- Note down the service name referenced.
Step 2: Restart the Conflicting Service
Sometimes, a simple restart clears the hiccup.
- Open Services by pressing
Windows + R, typingservices.msc, and pressing Enter. - Find the service you identified.
- Right-click the service and select Restart.
- If you can’t restart, try Stop first and then Start.
Step 3: Check for Duplicate or Hung Service Instances
ERROR_355 often happens when Windows thinks the service is already running.
- Open Task Manager by pressing
Ctrl + Shift + Esc. - Click on the Details tab.
- Look for multiple instances of the service’s executable file (you may need to research what the executable is called).
- If duplicates exist, right-click and select End Task on all instances.
- Return to Services (
services.msc) and try starting the service again.
Step 4: Run System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted system files can cause service conflicts.
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator (search for
cmd, right-click, and choose Run as administrator). -
Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan to complete. It will automatically repair corrupted files.
- Restart your PC and check if ERROR_355 persists.
Step 5: Use DISM Tool to Repair Windows Image
If SFC didn’t fully fix the issue, try DISM to repair system health.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
-
Run these commands one by one:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - After completion, restart your PC.
Step 6: Update Windows and Drivers
Old or incompatible drivers can contribute to this error.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install all available updates.
- Also update your device drivers:
- Open Device Manager (
devmgmt.msc) - Right-click devices with a warning sign and select Update driver.
- Open Device Manager (
- Reboot your PC.
Step 7: Modify Service Start-up Type
Change the service start-up type to avoid conflicts.
- Open Services (
services.msc). - Right-click the problematic service, select Properties.
- In the General tab, set Startup type to Manual or Automatic (Delayed Start).
- Click Apply, then OK.
- Restart your PC and check.
Step 8: Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot helps isolate if third-party apps are causing the conflict.
- Press
Windows + R, typemsconfig, and hit Enter. - Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
- Switch to the Startup tab, click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Restart your PC.
- Check if ERROR_355 disappears. If yes, re-enable services/startup items one-by-one to pinpoint the culprit.
Step 9: Reinstall the Application or Service
If the error regards a third-party app/service, reinstalling may help:
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Find the relevant program or service.
- Uninstall it.
- Download the latest version from the official source and reinstall.
Step 10: Restore Your System
If all else fails, a system restore to a previous point where everything worked perfectly could be your savior.
- Search for Create a restore point and open it.
- Click System Restore…
- Choose a restore point before ERROR_355 appeared.
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete the restoration.
Final Tips
- Always keep your Windows and apps up to date.
- Regularly create restore points for safer troubleshooting.
- Use trusted antivirus software to prevent malware interfering with system services.
- Backup important data before major fixes.
Conclusion
Encountering Windows ERROR_355 can be a bump in the road, but with patience and a step-by-step approach, you can fix it. From restarting services to using powerful built-in tools like SFC and DISM, you have multiple solutions at your fingertips.
If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with friends who might be struggling with similar Windows errors. And remember, tech problems aren’t the end of the world — they’re just another challenge to overcome.
Need further help? Feel free to ask in the comments — I’m here to assist you!
