If you’ve encountered Windows Error Code ERROR_356, you’re not alone. This error can be frustrating and disrupt your workflow, but don’t worry — we’re here to guide you through a detailed, easy-to-follow troubleshooting process that will help you resolve it swiftly.
What is Windows Error Code ERROR_356?
Before jumping into the fixes, it’s helpful to understand what ERROR_356 means. This specific error usually indicates a device or driver-related failure or a system file corruption in Windows. It may show up as a popup error message or during system startup or while running certain applications.
Common causes include:
- Outdated or corrupted drivers
- Faulty system files
- Conflicting software or updates
- Malware infection
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, the simplest fix can solve many problems.
- Save any open work.
- Restart your PC from the Start menu.
- After reboot, see if the error still occurs.
Why? A restart refreshes the operating system and clears temporary glitches.
Step 2: Update Windows and Drivers
Outdated software is often the root cause.
Update Windows:
- Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates and restart your PC.
Update Drivers:
- Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager.
- Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark.
- Right-click the device > Update driver > Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Alternatively, visit your PC manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers.
Pro Tip: Keeping drivers up-to-date ensures hardware compatibility and system stability.
Step 3: Run the System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tools
Corrupt system files can trigger ERROR_356. The built-in Windows utilities can repair these files.
-
Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges:
- Click Start, type
cmd - Right-click Command Prompt > Run as administrator
- Click Start, type
-
Run System File Checker:
sfc /scannow
Wait for it to complete. This will scan and repair corrupted system files.
-
If the issue persists, run the DISM tool to repair the system image:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Restart your PC and check if the error resolves.
Step 4: Check for Malware
Malware can cause strange system errors.
- Open Windows Security by searching in Start.
- Go to Virus & threat protection.
- Click Quick scan or run a Full scan for a thorough check.
- Follow prompts to remove any threats detected.
Alternatively, use trusted third-party antivirus software.
Step 5: Uninstall Recent Software or Updates
If the problem started after installing a new program or update, that might be the culprit.
- Open Settings > Apps.
- Sort installed programs by date and uninstall any suspicious or recently installed apps.
- To remove recent updates:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click View update history > Uninstall updates.
- Select the recent update and uninstall.
Restart your computer and test.
Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot helps identify if background apps or services cause ERROR_356.
- Press Windows Key + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services.
- Click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab, click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
- Restart your PC.
If the error stops, re-enable services one by one to pinpoint the issue.
Step 7: Restore Your System
If all else fails, restoring Windows to an earlier point might clear the error.
- Search Create a restore point in Start and open it.
- Click System Restore.
- Choose a restore point from before the error started.
- Follow the prompts to restore your system.
- Your computer will reboot.
Step 8: Seek Professional Help or Reset Windows
If ERROR_356 persists after trying all these steps, it might hint at deeper hardware issues or major corruption.
- Contact Microsoft Support or your PC manufacturer.
- Consider resetting Windows (Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC) as a last resort. Backup your data first!
Final Thoughts
Windows Error Code ERROR_356 can be a headache, but with patience and methodical troubleshooting, you can get back on track. Start with simple fixes and work your way to more advanced solutions.
Remember: Regularly backing up your data and keeping your system updated are the best preventions against errors like ERROR_356.
Did this guide help fix your ERROR_356 issue?
Feel free to leave a comment or share your experience below!
Keywords: Windows Error Code ERROR_356, fix ERROR_356, Windows troubleshooting, system file repair, update drivers, clean boot Windows, malware scan Windows, Windows system restore
