If you’ve encountered Windows Error Code ERROR_175, you’re not alone. This error can interrupt your workflow and leave you scratching your head wondering how to resolve it. The good news? You don’t need to be a tech wizard to fix this issue. In this comprehensive, step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get your Windows system back on track quickly and safely.
What is Windows Error Code ERROR_175?
Before diving into the fix, let’s understand what ERROR_175 means. This error is typically associated with problems in Windows services, often triggered by corrupted system files, misconfigured settings, or conflicts in service permissions. It might show up as a message like:
“Service failed to start. Error code: ERROR_175.”
Understanding the root cause will help you avoid similar problems in the future and maintain a healthy system.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, the simplest solutions work wonders. Restarting your computer clears temporary glitches or stuck services.
- Save all your work.
- Click on the Start Menu.
- Select Power > Restart.
- After your PC reboots, check if the error persists.
If the error is still there, don’t worry! Let’s move to the next step.
Step 2: Run the Windows System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted or missing system files often cause ERROR_175. Running the built-in System File Checker tool can repair these.
- Press Windows key + S and type
cmd. - Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
-
In the command window, type:
sfc /scannow
- Hit Enter. This process may take 10-15 minutes.
- Once completed, check the scan results:
- If files were repaired, restart your PC and see if the error is gone.
- If no issues were found, continue to the next step.
Step 3: Use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Tool
If SFC didn’t resolve the problem, DISM can fix deeper system image corruption:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator again.
-
Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Be patient; this can take up to 20 minutes.
- After finishing, restart your computer.
Step 4: Check the Problematic Service and Service Dependencies
Since ERROR_175 is often service-related, it’s important to ensure that the services involved are configured properly.
- Press Windows key + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter. - Locate the service mentioned in the error message.
- Right-click the service and select Properties.
- Under the General tab, set the Startup type to Automatic.
- Click Dependencies tab and note which services are dependent.
- Make sure all these dependent services are also running.
- If they aren’t running, right-click and select Start.
If the service fails to start with ERROR_175, proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Reset Permissions for the Problematic Service
A common cause is incorrect permissions assigned to the Windows Services. Here’s how to reset service permissions:
- Download and install SubInACL from Microsoft (search for "SubInACL download").
-
Open Notepad and paste the following script, replacing
ServiceNamewith your actual service name:bat
subinacl /service ServiceName /resetacl - Save this file as
reset_service_permissions.bat. - Right-click the
.batfile and select Run as administrator. - After successful execution, reboot your PC and test the service again.
Step 6: Update Windows and Device Drivers
Outdated system files and drivers can be the silent culprit:
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install all available updates.
- For drivers, you can update via Device Manager:
- Press Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand categories, right-click each device, and choose Update driver > Search automatically.
- Restart your PC once updates are installed.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot to Identify Conflicts
Sometimes third-party applications interfere and cause ERROR_175. Performing a clean boot helps isolate the issue.
- Press Windows key + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Under Services tab, check 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 disappears, you know a third-party program is the cause. Enable services and startup items one by one to find the culprit.
Step 8: Last Resort – Use System Restore or Reset Windows
If none of the above steps work, restoring your system to a previous state often helps:
- Open Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore.
- Choose a restore point dated before the error started.
- Follow prompts to complete the restoration.
Alternatively, reset Windows:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
- Under Reset this PC, click Get Started.
- Choose whether to keep files or remove everything.
- Follow on-screen instructions.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Panic, You’ve Got This!
ERROR_175 might seem intimidating, but with steady steps and patience, it’s entirely fixable. If you reach the end of this guide and the error persists, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support or a trusted local technician.
Remember: backing up your important files regularly can save you from headaches in the future.
FAQs
Q: Is ERROR_175 dangerous for my PC?
A: It’s generally not harmful but can prevent some services from running properly, affecting system performance.
Q: Can malware cause ERROR_175?
A: Yes, malware can corrupt system files/services. Run a full system antivirus scan to rule this out.
Q: Will resetting Windows delete my data?
A: You have an option to keep your files during reset, but always back up important data beforehand.
If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with friends or colleagues facing similar issues. Your Windows PC will thank you!
