If you’ve encountered the frustrating Windows System Error Code ERROR_360, you’re not alone. This error can disrupt your workflow and cause a lot of unnecessary headaches. But don’t worry! In this comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through how to fix ERROR_360 quickly and effectively so you can get back to using your PC without any hassle.
What Is Windows System Error Code ERROR_360?
Before diving into the solution, it’s essential to understand what ERROR_360 means. Typically, ERROR_360 is associated with:
- Software installation failures
- System conflicts or corrupted registry entries
- Driver issues
- Malware or virus infections
- Corrupted system files
Understanding the root cause helps tailor the fix specifically to your situation and reduces the chances of recurring errors.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
It sounds basic, but a simple reboot can fix many Windows errors. Restarting clears temporary glitches in the system memory and reloads drivers and applications afresh.
How to restart:
- Click on the Start menu
- Select Power
- Hit Restart
After your PC boots up again, try to perform the action that triggered the ERROR_360 and see if it persists.
Step 2: Run Windows Update
Outdated system files and patches can cause errors like ERROR_360. Keeping your Windows OS up-to-date ensures bugs and vulnerabilities are patched.
How to run Windows Update:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings
- Go to Update & Security
- Click on Windows Update
- Select Check for updates
- Install any available updates, then restart your PC
Step 3: Scan for Malware and Viruses
Malware infections often corrupt system files leading to errors. Running a full system antivirus scan is critical.
How to scan:
- Open Windows Security (search for it via Start menu)
- Click on Virus & threat protection
- Select Scan options
- Choose Full scan and click Scan now
If your built-in Windows Defender doesn’t find anything but you’re still suspicious, use trusted third-party antivirus software like Malwarebytes or Bitdefender.
Step 4: Use System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tools
Corrupted or missing system files are a common cause of ERROR_360. Windows provides built-in tools to repair these files.
Run SFC Scan:
- Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin)
-
Enter the command:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan to finish. It will attempt to repair corrupt files automatically.
Run DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool:
If the SFC scan reports errors that it cannot fix, proceed with DISM:
-
In the same Command Prompt window, type:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Press Enter and wait for the process to complete.
- Restart your computer.
Step 5: Check and Update Device Drivers
Outdated or incompatible drivers can trigger ERROR_360.
How to check drivers:
- Press Windows + X, then choose Device Manager
- Expand relevant categories (Display adapters, Network adapters, etc.)
- Right-click on a device and select Update driver
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software
Repeat for any devices showing warning signs (yellow exclamation marks). If you recently updated drivers, consider rolling back to a previous version by right-clicking the device > Properties > Driver tab > Roll Back Driver.
Step 6: Clean Windows Registry (With Caution)
A cluttered or corrupted registry can cause ERROR_360, but editing the registry manually is risky. Use reliable tools like CCleaner to automatically scan and fix registry problems.
Note: Always back up your registry before applying changes.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot
Conflicting startup programs can cause system errors. A clean boot helps you isolate problematic software.
How to clean boot:
- Press Windows + R, type msconfig, press Enter.
- Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services.
- Click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Restart your PC and check if ERROR_360 is resolved.
If fixed, re-enable services and startup items one-by-one to identify the culprit.
Step 8: Restore Your System to an Earlier Point
If the error started recently, using System Restore to revert your Windows to a previous stable state might resolve the problem.
Steps to restore:
- Search for Create a restore point from the Start menu.
- Click System Restore.
- Choose a restore point before the ERROR_360 appeared.
- Follow the wizard to complete the restore process.
Step 9: Reset or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If all else fails, resetting Windows to factory settings or reinstalling the OS will fix deep-rooted problems but will erase your apps and settings (though you can choose whether to keep personal files).
How to reset:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery
- Click Get started under Reset this PC
- Follow the instructions to either keep your files or remove everything
Final Thoughts
Windows System Error Code ERROR_360 can feel daunting, but with these detailed steps, you can troubleshoot and fix the problem effectively. Remember to keep your system clean, updated, and to back up important files regularly to minimize risks.
If you tried all the steps and still face issues, it may be time to consult a professional technician.
FAQs About Windows Error Code ERROR_360
Q1. Can ERROR_360 cause data loss?
If triggered by malware or serious system corruption, data loss is possible. Always back up regularly.
Q2. Is ERROR_360 specific to any Windows version?
No, it can occur across different Windows versions, though causes may vary.
Q3. How can I prevent ERROR_360 in the future?
Keep your software and drivers updated, run regular malware scans, and avoid suspicious downloads.
Did this guide help you fix the error? Feel free to comment below your experience or any additional tips you have!
