Encountering an error on your Windows PC can be frustrating, especially when it interrupts your workflow or gaming session. Windows Error Code ERROR_195 is one such issue that users sometimes face, often without clear indications of what went wrong. The good news? Fixing it may be easier than you think!
In this detailed, SEO-friendly guide, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step troubleshooting process to resolve ERROR_195 efficiently, even if you aren’t tech-savvy. So let’s roll up our sleeves and fix that PC!
What is Windows Error Code ERROR_195?
Before diving into fixes, understanding what ERROR_195 means helps. This error generally occurs due to:
- Corrupt system or application files
- Conflicting software or corrupted updates
- Device driver malfunctions
- Registry issues or malware infections
It most commonly appears during software installation, system updates, or app executions and manifests as an annoying pop-up or application crash.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart is all you need to clear temporary glitches causing the error.
- Click the Start Menu
- Select Power > Restart
- Wait for your PC to reboot fully and try the action again that caused the error.
If ERROR_195 persists, proceed to the next steps.
Step 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan
Corrupted system files are often the culprit. Windows has a built-in tool to detect and repair them.
- Press Windows Key + S and type
cmd. - Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
-
In the Command Prompt window, type:
bash
sfc /scannow - Press Enter and wait patiently as Windows scans and repairs corrupted files. This may take 10-20 minutes.
- Once done, restart your PC and check if error 195 is resolved.
Step 3: Update Windows and Drivers
Outdated system updates or drivers can clash and cause errors.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any pending updates.
- Next, update device drivers:
- Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand devices like Display adapters, Network adapters, etc.
- Right-click a device and choose Update driver > Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Repeat for major devices and restart your PC.
Step 4: Disable Conflicting Startup Programs
A startup program might be conflicting with your system, triggering ERROR_195.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Startup tab.
- Disable unnecessary programs by right-clicking and selecting Disable.
- Restart your computer and check if the error persists.
Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot
Clean booting helps isolate software conflicts:
- Press Windows Key + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
- Tick Hide all Microsoft services and then click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
- Restart your PC.
If the error disappears, gradually enable services/startup apps to identify the problematic software.
Step 6: Scan for Malware and Viruses
Malicious software can cause unexpected errors:
- Use Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus.
- Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
- Click Quick Scan or Full Scan for deeper checking.
- Follow prompts to remove detected threats.
- Restart your PC.
Step 7: Use DISM Tool to Repair System Image
If SFC couldn’t fully repair files, try the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator (see Step 2).
-
Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
bash
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Wait until each process completes (~10-15 minutes).
- Restart your PC.
Step 8: Restore Your System to a Previous Point
If ERROR_195 started recently, a system restore can revert changes causing the issue.
- Press Windows Key + S, type
Create a restore point, and click it. - Click System Restore, then Next.
- Choose a restore point dated before the error began.
- Follow on-screen instructions to restore your system.
- Your PC will restart and revert to that date.
Step 9: Reinstall the Problematic Application or Windows Component
If ERROR_195 appears during the use of a particular app, try reinstalling it:
- Open Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
- Find the app, click it, and select Uninstall.
- Download the latest installer from the official website.
- Install the app fresh and check for improvements.
For Windows components, use Settings > Apps > Optional features to uninstall and reinstall.
Step 10: Seek Professional Help or Reset Windows
If all else fails, your last resort may be:
- Contacting Microsoft Support or a professional technician.
- Resetting Windows (Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC) — but always back up your files first!
Windows Error Code ERROR_195 may sound intimidating but with these clear troubleshooting steps, many users can solve it without headaches. Start simple with restarts and scans, then progressively explore advanced fixes as needed.
By keeping your system updated, running regular virus scans, and managing your startup programs, you’ll also reduce the chances of encountering errors in the future.
Have you faced ERROR_195 before? Feel free to share your experience or ask questions in the comments below—I’m here to help!
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Cheers to a smooth, error-free Windows experience!
