If you’ve encountered the frustrating Windows ERROR_140, you’re not alone. This error can interrupt your workflow, cause programs to crash, or prevent certain processes from completing correctly. Don’t worry — in this detailed, easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to identify the cause of Windows ERROR_140 and fix it efficiently.
What is Windows ERROR_140?
Windows ERROR_140 typically relates to security or authentication issues with your system, often connected to certificate errors, login problems, or access permissions. It can occur during software installations, running applications, or connecting to certain network resources.
Common Causes of Windows ERROR_140
- Corrupt or missing security certificates
- Incorrect system date and time settings
- User account permission conflicts
- Outdated Windows OS or software
- Malware infections
- Faulty system files
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Windows ERROR_140
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Before diving into more technical solutions, always try the simplest first.
- Click Start > Power > Restart.
- Sometimes, a fresh start clears minor glitches causing the error.
Step 2: Check Date and Time Settings
Incorrect date/time often disrupt security certificate validations, triggering ERROR_140.
- Right-click on the date/time in the bottom right corner.
- Select Adjust date/time.
- Enable Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically.
- Restart your PC, then try the task again.
Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tool
Corrupted system files can produce cryptic errors like ERROR_140.
- Press Windows + X, select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type
sfc /scannowand hit Enter. Wait until the scan finishes. - Then type these commands one by one:
bash
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Restart your computer.
This process repairs corrupted system files and restores health.
Step 4: Update Windows and Drivers
Running the latest Windows version and drivers ensures bugs causing ERROR_140 are patched.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates. Install all available updates.
- For drivers, go to Device Manager, right-click hardware (like Network Adapters), select Update driver.
Step 5: Verify Security Certificates
Since ERROR_140 is often certificate-related:
- Press Windows + R, type
certmgr.msc, press Enter. - Expand Trusted Root Certification Authorities > Certificates.
- Look for expired or suspicious certificates and remove them cautiously.
Note: Only remove certificates if you are sure about their legitimacy to avoid affecting system security.
Step 6: Check User Account Permissions
Sometimes insufficient permissions lead to ERROR_140.
- Create a new Windows user with Administrator rights:
- Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Add someone else to this PC.
- Assign Admin privileges.
- Log into the new account and perform the task again.
If successful, your original user profile may have permission issues.
Step 7: Scan for Malware
Malware can affect system permissions and certification stores.
- Use Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus program.
- Run a Full Scan.
- Remove any threats found.
- Restart and test.
Step 8: Perform a Clean Boot
Some background applications may cause conflicts.
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Go to 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 try your task again.
If the error no longer occurs, enable services and startup items one-by-one to identify the culprit.
Step 9: Restore Your System
If troubleshooting hasn’t worked yet, try restoring your system to a previous point.
- Go to Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore.
- Choose a restore point from before the error started.
- Follow prompts to complete restoration.
Step 10: Seek Professional Help
If all else fails, consider contacting Microsoft Support or a professional technician. Sometimes, complex issues require expert hands.
Final Thoughts
The Windows ERROR_140 can feel intimidating, but with patience and these clear steps, most users fix it themselves. Remember to always:
- Back up important data before advanced repairs.
- Take notes on changes you make.
- Be cautious when deleting certificates or system files.
Keeping your system updated, scanned for threats, and correctly configured will help you avoid repeating this error.
Did this guide help you fix ERROR_140? Drop a comment below and share your experience — your story could help others in the community! If you have any questions, ask away, and I’ll be glad to help.
Happy computing! 🚀
