If you’ve encountered the Windows ERROR_387: Invalid Address message, you’re not alone. This error can be quite frustrating, especially if you aren’t sure what it means or how to fix it. Fortunately, this guide will walk you through exactly what ERROR_387 is, why it happens, and, most importantly, how to resolve it — step-by-step.
What is Windows ERROR_387: Invalid Address?
ERROR_387 is a Windows system error code that indicates an “Invalid Address” issue. In simpler terms, the system attempted to access a memory address or resource that is either corrupted, unavailable, or improperly referenced. This is a general error often tied to software or driver problems, bad system configurations, or corrupted registry entries.
Typical scenarios where ERROR_387 might pop up include:
- Running certain applications or games
- Installing or updating software or drivers
- System services failing to start
- Network resource access problems
Why Does the ERROR_387 Occur?
Here are some common reasons causing the ERROR_387:
- Corrupted system files or registry
- Faulty or incompatible device drivers
- Faulty software installations or incomplete updates
- Conflicts between applications
- Hardware issues, especially with RAM
- Malware or virus infections affecting system stability
How to Fix Windows ERROR_387: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
It may sound basic, but a simple reboot can often clear temporary glitches and memory issues that cause ERROR_387.
- Save any work, close programs, and perform a full system restart.
- Try to reproduce the error after reboot.
Step 2: Run Windows System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted system files are a primary culprit behind ERROR_387. Running the built-in System File Checker tool will scan and repair damaged files.
- Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- Wait until the scan completes (may take 10-15 minutes).
- If integrity violations are found and fixed, restart the PC to apply changes.
- Check if the issue persists.
Step 3: Update or Reinstall Device Drivers
Faulty drivers commonly trigger ERROR_387 during hardware access.
Automatic Update:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Locate devices with a yellow exclamation mark.
- Right-click these devices and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
Manual Reinstallation:
- Visit your PC or device manufacturer’s website.
- Download the latest stable drivers for your hardware.
- Uninstall problematic drivers from Device Manager by right-clicking → Uninstall device.
- Restart your system, then manually install the downloaded drivers.
Step 4: Check and Repair Registry Issues
Registry errors can cause invalid address errors. Before proceeding, back up the registry:
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit, press Enter. - In Registry Editor, click File > Export > save the backup.
You can:
- Use a trusted third-party registry cleaner to scan and repair issues.
- Or manually look for invalid entries associated with the problematic software.
Step 5: Run Memory Diagnostic Tool
Since ERROR_387 can relate to memory access, testing your RAM can help rule out hardware problems.
- Press Windows + R, type
mdsched.exe, and press Enter. - Choose Restart now and check for problems.
- Your PC will restart and check memory for errors.
- Wait for results and follow further instructions if errors are detected.
Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot
Software conflicts can lead to ERROR_387. A clean boot lets you start Windows with only essential services, helping isolate the issue.
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
- Now go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager, click OK in System Configuration.
- Restart your PC and check if the error is gone.
- If fixed, re-enable services/startups one by one to find the culprit.
Step 7: Scan for Malware
Malicious software can corrupt memory and cause system errors.
- Run a full antivirus scan with Windows Defender or third-party security software.
- Remove any detected threats.
- Restart and verify the problem.
Step 8: System Restore or Reset (Last Resort)
If none of the above work, use System Restore to revert to a previous system state before the error began:
- Press Windows + S, type
System Restore, and select Create a restore point. - Click System Restore and follow prompts to choose a restore point.
If the error persists even after restoring:
- Consider resetting Windows from Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC.
- Backup your files before proceeding, as this may erase apps and settings.
Final Thoughts
Windows ERROR_387 can be intimidating, but with a systematic approach, you can troubleshoot and fix it efficiently. Remember to take your time and perform each step carefully. Most important — don’t hesitate to seek professional help if hardware problems seem likely.
If this guide helped you fix the ERROR_387, please share your experience in the comments or share it with someone facing the same headache.
Feel free to ask questions or for further assistance — I’m here to help!
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Thanks for reading. Wishing you a smooth, error-free computing experience!
