Encountering Windows System Error Code ERROR_142 can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to get work done or enjoy your computer without interruptions. This error typically relates to an issue with the system encountering an unexpected problem that prevents certain operations from completing successfully.
Don’t worry! In this comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide, I’ll walk you through detailed, step-by-step solutions to fix Windows System Error Code ERROR_142. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, these methods are clear, actionable, and designed to get your system running smoothly again.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_142?
Windows error codes are numeric values that indicate specific problems when your system or applications encounter issues. ERROR_142 generally means:
"The system call level is not correct."
This means a component of the system tried to perform an operation on a resource (like a file or device), but the resource was not in the expected state or level. The error can appear during software installations, hardware access, or executing certain programs.
Why Does ERROR_142 Happen?
This error can occur due to several root causes:
- Corrupted system files or drivers
- Incorrect system configurations or registry issues
- Damaged or incompatible software installations
- Malware or virus infections
- Outdated Windows OS or device drivers
Understanding these causes helps us approach the fix systematically.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, the simplest fix is all you need. Restarting your PC can clear temporary glitches causing ERROR_142.
- How to do it: Click the Start menu → Select Power → Choose Restart.
- Wait for the system to reboot and check if the error still occurs.
Step 2: Run Windows Update
Outdated Windows system files or drivers often cause system errors.
- Open Settings (Windows key + I).
- Go to Update & Security → Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
- After updates install, restart your PC.
Keeping your system up to date often resolves compatibility issues causing ERROR_142.
Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan
Corrupted or missing system files might trigger ERROR_142. The SFC tool scans and repairs these files.
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator:
- Click Start, type
cmd. - Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- Click Start, type
-
Type the command:
sfc /scannow
- Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete (this might take some time).
- If corrupted files are repaired, restart your PC.
Step 4: Run the DISM Tool
If the SFC scan did not fix the error, use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool.
- Run Command Prompt as administrator again.
-
Enter the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Wait for each command to complete.
- Restart your computer after all commands finish.
Step 5: Check Device Drivers
ERROR_142 can appear if hardware devices have outdated or faulty drivers.
- Open Device Manager:
- Right-click Start button → Select Device Manager.
- Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark.
- Right-click the device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Repeat for all problematic devices.
- Restart your PC afterwards.
If updating drivers doesn’t help, visit the manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.
Step 6: Scan for Malware and Viruses
Malware can corrupt system files, causing errors like ERROR_142.
- Use Windows Security or your preferred antivirus software.
- Run a full system scan.
- Follow prompts to remove any detected threats.
- Restart your PC once the scan is complete.
Step 7: Use System Restore
If ERROR_142 started recently, using System Restore can revert your system to a healthy previous state.
- Press Windows key + R → type
rstrui→ press Enter. - Follow instructions to select a restore point dated before the error began.
- Confirm and allow the system to restore.
- Your computer will restart and hopefully the error will be gone.
Step 8: Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot helps identify if background programs cause ERROR_142.
- Press Windows key + R, type
msconfig, hit Enter. - In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
- Check the box Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
- 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.
If the error no longer appears, re-enable services/startup items one by one to isolate the culprit.
Step 9: Reset or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If none of the above solutions work, resetting Windows might be necessary.
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Recovery.
- Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
- Choose to keep your files or remove everything.
- Follow on-screen instructions.
Make sure to back up important data before this step.
Final Thoughts
Windows System Error Code ERROR_142 can feel daunting, but with this thorough guide, you have all the tools you need to fix it confidently. Start with the easy fixes, and gradually move to more advanced steps if necessary.
Remember, patience and careful execution are key when troubleshooting. If you ever feel stuck, don’t hesitate to ask for professional support.
FAQs about Windows System Error Code ERROR_142
Q1: Is ERROR_142 dangerous?
It’s not dangerous but can disrupt your workflow and cause system instability if unresolved.
Q2: Can third-party software fix ERROR_142?
Some tools can help automate fixes, but manual steps often provide better control and understanding.
Q3: How often should I update my drivers?
Regularly, ideally monthly or whenever your hardware manufacturer releases new updates.
Thank you for reading! If this guide helped, feel free to share it with your friends or colleagues experiencing ERROR_142. Safe computing!
