Are you encountering the frustrating Windows Error Code ERROR_220 and wondering how to fix it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This error can disrupt your tasks, causing delays and stress. The good news is, with some systematic troubleshooting, you can resolve this issue quickly and get your PC back to running smoothly.
In this comprehensive, step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to identify, troubleshoot, and fix Windows ERROR_220. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, these straightforward steps will get you back on track in no time!
What is Windows Error Code ERROR_220?
ERROR_220 is a system-level error that typically relates to issues with system files or processes, often tied to driver conflicts, corrupted system files, or software incompatibility. It can occur during startup or while running applications, and may manifest as:
- System freezes or crashes
- Failure to launch specific applications
- Unexpected system shutdowns or restarts
Understanding the cause is key to fixing it, so let’s dive into the troubleshooting.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Before jumping into technical fixes, a simple restart can sometimes clear up temporary glitches causing ERROR_220.
- Save your work.
- Click the Start button > Power > Restart.
- After rebooting, check if the issue persists.
If ERROR_220 is still showing, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Run Windows Troubleshooter
Windows has built-in troubleshooting tools that automatically detect and resolve common issues.
- Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Depending on when the error occurs, select:
- Program Compatibility Troubleshooter
- Blue Screen (if applicable)
- System Maintenance
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
This tool may resolve underlying conflicts without further intervention.
Step 3: Update Device Drivers
Outdated or corrupt drivers are a frequent cause of ERROR_220.
- Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager.
- Look for any devices marked with a yellow triangle — this indicates driver problems.
- Right-click on those devices and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
- Repeat this for critical components like display adapters, network adapters, and storage controllers.
Once done, restart your PC and check if the error is resolved.
Step 4: Scan for Malware and Viruses
Malicious software can corrupt essential system files and lead to ERROR_220.
- Open Windows Security by typing it in the Start menu.
- Navigate to Virus & threat protection.
- Click Quick scan or Full scan for a comprehensive sweep.
- If threats are detected, follow prompts to remove/quarantine them.
- Reboot your system.
Running a second opinion scan with trusted tools like Malwarebytes is also advisable.
Step 5: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tools
Corrupted or missing system files can trigger ERROR_220. Use the System File Checker and Deployment Image Servicing and Management tools to repair them.
How to run SFC:
- Press Windows Key + S, type cmd.
- Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
-
In the Command Prompt window, type:
sfc /scannow
- Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete.
How to run DISM (if SFC doesn’t fix everything):
-
In the same elevated Command Prompt, type:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Press Enter and wait—this could take several minutes.
Restart your computer after these steps, then check if ERROR_220 is fixed.
Step 6: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft frequently releases patches that fix bugs and enhance system stability.
- Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Download and install any available updates.
- Restart the computer after installation completes.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot
Sometimes, third-party software conflicts cause system errors like ERROR_220.
- Press Windows Key + R to open Run dialog.
- Type msconfig and press Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, 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.
- Close Task Manager, click OK on System Configuration.
- Restart your PC.
If ERROR_220 disappears, systematically enable services and startup items one by one to identify the culprit.
Step 8: Restore Your System (System Restore)
If the error started recently, a System Restore might fix it by reverting your PC to a previous state.
- Press Windows Key + S, type Create a restore point, and press Enter.
- Click System Restore.
- Follow the wizard to choose a restore point dated before the error occurred.
- Confirm and begin restoration.
- After restart, check if the problem persists.
Step 9: Seek Professional Help or Reinstall Windows
If none of the above solutions fix ERROR_220, the issue may be more complex involving hardware faults or deep system corruption.
- Consider consulting a professional technician.
- Back up your files regularly.
- As a last resort, perform a clean installation of Windows for a fresh start.
Final Tips: Preventing Future Errors
- Keep your software and drivers updated.
- Regularly scan for malware.
- Avoid installing untrusted software.
- Perform routine system maintenance.
- Use reliable antivirus and backup programs.
Conclusion
Encountering Windows Error Code ERROR_220 can be stressful, but with patience and the right steps, it’s entirely fixable. Follow this guide carefully—from simple restarts to advanced System File Checker scans—and you’ll likely resolve the error quickly. Remember, technology problems happen to everyone; the key is to stay calm, troubleshoot methodically, and seek help if needed.
If this guide helped you, please share it with friends or colleagues who might be facing the same issue. Happy computing!
Have more questions or need personalized help? Feel free to drop a comment below or reach out via our support page!
Keywords: Windows error code ERROR_220, fix ERROR_220, Windows troubleshooting, system error fix, update drivers, malware scan, SFC DISM repair, Windows clean boot, System Restore, Windows update error fix
