If you’ve encountered ERROR_393 on your Windows PC, you’re not alone. This error can be frustrating, disrupting your workflow and causing unnecessary stress. Luckily, with a bit of patience and this detailed step-by-step guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve ERROR_393 quickly and efficiently.
What is ERROR_393?
ERROR_393 is a common Windows error code often related to system file corruption, driver conflicts, or software incompatibility issues. It typically appears during software installation, driver updates, or while running certain programs. Understanding the root cause will help us fix it effectively.
Why You Should Fix ERROR_393 Quickly
Ignoring this error can lead to:
- Frequent system crashes
- Application failures
- Loss of unsaved data
- Reduced system performance
Fixing ERROR_393 promptly ensures your computer runs smoothly and your data stays safe.
Before You Begin
- Backup your data: Always back up important files before making significant changes.
- Note down the error details: Sometimes ERROR_393 might display additional information—keep this handy.
- Ensure your Windows is Updated: Updates include bug fixes that may resolve the error.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes the simplest fix is the most effective.
- Click Start > Power > Restart.
- After rebooting, check if ERROR_393 persists.
If it does, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Run Windows Update
An outdated system can cause compatibility problems leading to ERROR_393.
- Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
- Restart your PC and check if the error is resolved.
Step 3: Check for Software or Driver Conflicts
ERROR_393 often stems from conflicts caused by faulty drivers or incompatible software.
How to Check:
- Press Windows Key + R, type
devmgmt.msc, and press Enter to open Device Manager. - Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark.
- Right-click on the problematic device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- If Windows finds new drivers, install them and restart your PC.
If no issues are found or updating drivers didn’t help, try uninstalling recently installed software:
- Press Windows Key + I > Apps > Apps & features.
- Sort by Install date and uninstall recently added apps one by one.
- After uninstalling each app, restart and test if the issue persists.
Step 4: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Corrupted system files often trigger ERROR_393. Running these tools repairs broken files.
Running SFC:
- Press Windows Key and type
cmd. - Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
-
In the command window, type:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan and repair process to finish (this may take some time).
- Reboot your computer.
Running DISM (if SFC finds issues):
- Open Command Prompt as admin again.
-
Run these commands one after another:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - These commands scan and automatically repair the Windows image.
- Once complete, restart your PC.
Step 5: Check for Malware
Malware infections can cause ERROR_393 by damaging essential system files or interfering with processes.
- Open Windows Security by pressing Windows Key + I, then Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
- Click Quick scan, or even better, run a Full scan.
- Follow prompts to quarantine/remove threats.
- After cleaning, restart your system.
Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot helps you identify if startup programs or services are causing the error.
How to Clean Boot:
- Press Windows Key + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - In the System Configuration window, click the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
- Navigate to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
- Restart your computer.
Check if ERROR_393 still appears. If not, enable services/startup items one by one to identify the culprit.
Step 7: Perform System Restore
If ERROR_393 started recently, restoring your PC to an earlier point may help.
- Press Windows Key + R, type
rstrui, and hit Enter. - Follow the wizard to select a restore point created before the error appeared.
- Complete the restore and restart.
Step 8: Reset or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If none of the above work:
- Back up all your data.
- 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.
This will reinstall Windows and typically fixes persistent ERROR_393 issues.
Final Thoughts
ERROR_393 can be a headache, but with patience and these clear steps, you can reclaim control of your PC. Regular maintenance like updating Windows and drivers, avoiding untrusted software, and running security scans can prevent future issues.
If you feel stuck or uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional technician. Your system’s health and your peace of mind are worth it.
FAQs About ERROR_393
Q1: Can a simple restart fix ERROR_393?
Yes, many times a reboot clears temporary glitches causing the error.
Q2: Is ERROR_393 related to hardware failure?
Mostly no, but if driver updates don’t help, checking hardware status is advised.
Q3: Does resetting Windows delete my files?
You can choose to keep personal files or remove everything during reset.
Thanks for reading! If this guide helped you, please share it with others facing ERROR_393. Comment below if you have any questions—we’re here to help!
