Windows ERROR_371 can be a frustrating issue that disrupts your workflow and causes unexpected interruptions. Whether you’re a casual user or an IT professional, encountering this error can be puzzling. But don’t worry — in this detailed, easy-to-follow guide, I’ll help you understand what ERROR_371 means and walk you through the best troubleshooting steps to fix it effectively.
What is Windows ERROR_371?
Before diving into fixes, let’s take a moment to understand the error. Windows ERROR_371 usually relates to a shared resource or a particular system service causing conflicts, often tied to network or system resource management. It can arise during software installation, startup, or when accessing specific functions.
Understanding the root cause helps you avoid guesswork and apply targeted solutions.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
It might sound basic, but trust me — many Windows errors are resolved by a simple reboot. Restarting clears temporary files and resets hung processes that might be triggering ERROR_371.
- Click Start > Power > Restart.
- After your PC boots up, try reproducing the error.
If the error persists, move to step 2.
Step 2: Run Windows Update
Microsoft frequently releases updates that patch bugs or fix system errors, including issues causing ERROR_371.
- Open Settings (Win + I).
- Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install all pending updates and restart your computer.
Running the latest updates can patch system-level problems causing the error.
Step 3: Use System File Checker (SFC) Tool
Corrupted or missing system files often cause errors like ERROR_371. The built-in System File Checker scans and repairs these files.
- Press Win + S and type
cmd. - Right-click Command Prompt > Run as administrator.
-
Type the following and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan to finish (this could take some time).
If SFC finds issues, it will attempt repairs automatically. Once done, reboot your PC and check if the error is resolved.
Step 4: Check for Conflicting Software or Services
ERROR_371 can be triggered by software conflicts or problematic services. Try performing a clean boot to isolate the cause:
- Press Win + 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.
- Now, go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK on the System Configuration window.
- Restart your computer.
If the error disappears, enable services and startup items one by one, restarting after each to identify the conflicting program.
Step 5: Update or Reinstall Device Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers could also cause ERROR_371, especially if related to network or hardware devices.
- Press Win + X, select Device Manager.
- Look for any device with a yellow exclamation mark (indicating issues).
- Right-click the device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
- If updating doesn’t work, you might want to uninstall the driver and restart your PC to reinstall it automatically.
Step 6: Check Network Settings and Resources
If ERROR_371 relates to network resource sharing or access, verify your network configuration.
- Ensure your network connection is stable.
- Check that shared folders or devices are accessible and permissions are correctly set.
- Disable any third-party firewall or VPN temporarily to see if they’re blocking access.
To reset your network settings:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
-
Run the following commands, one by one:
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns - Restart your PC.
Step 7: Use System Restore Point
If the error started appearing after a recent change, a system restore can help roll back to a previous stable state.
- Press Win + S, type
Create a restore point, and open it. - Click System Restore….
- Follow the prompts to choose a restore point dated before the error started.
- Complete the process and restart your computer.
Step 8: Contact Microsoft Support or Professional Help
If none of the above steps work, the issue might be deeper in the system or related to specific software configurations. At this stage, consider:
- Reviewing the exact error logs in Event Viewer for clues.
- Searching Microsoft’s official forums or contacting their support team.
- Consulting a professional technician or IT specialist who can offer hands-on troubleshooting.
Final Thoughts
ERROR_371 can definitely throw a wrench in your day, but with these step-by-step fixes, you should be well-equipped to tackle the problem effectively. Remember to always back up your important data before performing complex operations, and approach each troubleshooting step with patience.
If this guide helped you, feel free to share it with friends or colleagues facing the same frustration. And if you run into any questions, drop a comment — I’m here to help!
Summary Checklist:
- Restart your PC
- Update Windows fully
- Run SFC scan
- Perform a clean boot
- Update/reinstall drivers
- Check network settings and reset
- Use System Restore
- Contact support if needed
Stay patient, stay focused — you’ve got this!
