Encountering the Windows error code ERROR_196 can be frustrating, especially if you rely on your computer for work or personal tasks. This guide is designed to help you understand what this error means and walk you through detailed, easy-to-follow steps to resolve it quickly.
What is Windows Error Code ERROR_196?
Before diving into the fix, let’s clarify what ERROR_196 signifies:
- ERROR_196 is generally related to issues with hardware interactions, file corruption, or driver conflicts.
- It may prevent certain programs or Windows features from functioning properly.
- Common causes include outdated drivers, corrupted system files, or problematic software installations.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple reboot can clear temporary glitches causing ERROR_196.
- How to do it:
- Click on the Start menu.
- Select the Power icon.
- Choose Restart.
- Wait for the system to start up again and see if the error persists.
Step 2: Run Windows Update
Updating Windows can often fix bugs and compatibility issues that trigger errors.
- How to check for updates:
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates and restart your PC.
Step 3: Run the System File Checker (SFC) Tool
Corrupted system files are common culprits for ERROR_196. The SFC tool scans and repairs these files.
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Steps to run SFC:
- Press Windows key, type cmd, then right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
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Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- Wait patiently — this process can take 10-15 minutes.
- Once complete, the tool will notify you if it found issues and repaired them.
- Restart your computer.
Step 4: Update or Reinstall Device Drivers
Driver clashes often cause Windows errors. Updating or reinstalling them can restore stability.
- How to update drivers:
- Press Windows key + X, then click Device Manager.
- Expand each category and look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark (indicating a problem).
- Right-click the problematic device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
- Follow the prompts.
- If updating doesn’t help, right-click the device, choose Uninstall device, then restart your computer to reinstall the driver automatically.
Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot
Software conflicts can sometimes trigger ERROR_196. A clean boot helps identify if third-party programs are the cause.
- How to perform a clean boot:
- Press Windows key + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, select the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services at the bottom.
- Click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
- Restart your computer.
- If the error is gone, enable services and startup programs one-by-one to pinpoint the culprit.
Step 6: Use the Windows Troubleshooter
Windows includes built-in troubleshooters for many issues.
- Steps to run troubleshooters:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Choose the relevant troubleshooter, such as Hardware and Devices or Windows Update depending on the error context.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 7: Check Your Disk for Errors
Disk errors or bad sectors can cause system instability.
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Run Check Disk:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator again.
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Type the command:
chkdsk /f /r
- You might be asked to schedule the disk check on the next restart; type Y and press Enter.
- Restart your computer and allow the disk check to complete.
Step 8: Restore Windows to a Previous State
If the error started recently, restoring your system might help.
- How to perform a system restore:
- Type Create a restore point in the Windows search bar and click it.
- In the System Properties window, click System Restore.
- Follow the wizard and select a restore point dated before ERROR_196 began appearing.
- Confirm and wait for the process to complete.
Step 9: Reset or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If all else fails, resetting or reinstalling Windows can fix deep system issues.
- Reset your PC:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
- Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
- Choose to Keep my files or Remove everything based on your preference.
- Follow the prompts to reinstall Windows.
Final Tips
- Always keep your data backed up before performing system-level fixes.
- Running antivirus scans during this process is wise, as malware can cause errors.
- Keep your Windows and drivers regularly updated to prevent future issues.
Summary
ERROR_196 can be resolved by methodically checking for system corruption, software conflicts, and driver issues. By following this guide step-by-step, even those new to troubleshooting can regain a smoothly running system.
If you need personalized help after trying these steps, don’t hesitate to consult a professional or reach out to Microsoft Support.
Enjoy your error-free Windows experience! If this guide helped you, consider sharing it with others facing similar issues.
