If you’ve encountered Windows ERROR_151, you’re likely feeling stuck and frustrated. This error often appears during system operations such as software installations, file transfers, or running certain commands. Don’t worry — you’re not alone, and this guide will walk you through the steps to resolve ERROR_151 methodically and confidently.
What is Windows ERROR_151?
ERROR_151 usually corresponds to a permissions or file access conflict in Windows. It might occur when your system is unable to access required files or directories due to restrictions, corruption, or misconfigurations. Understanding the root cause helps us target the right solution.
Quick Summary of Steps to Fix ERROR_151
- Restart Your Computer
- Run Windows Update
- Run SFC and DISM Scans
- Check and Modify Permissions
- Clear Temporary Files and System Cache
- Run the Program as Administrator
- Check Disk for Errors
- Reinstall Problematic Software or Drivers
- Perform a System Restore
- Contact Microsoft Support (if needed)
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, the simplest fix can solve complex problems. Restarting your PC clears temporary files and resets system processes, potentially resolving ERROR_151 if it was caused by a minor glitch.
- Save your work
- Click Start > Power > Restart
- Wait for the system to reboot and check if the error persists
Step 2: Run Windows Update
Microsoft often releases important patches fixing known errors, including permissions or system file issues tied to ERROR_151.
- Click Start > Settings (gear icon) > Update & Security > Windows Update
- Click Check for updates
- Install all available updates, then restart your PC
Step 3: Run SFC and DISM Scans
System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) can repair corrupted system files that may cause ERROR_151.
How to run an SFC scan:
- Press Windows Key + X, select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin)
-
Type:
sfc /scannow
- Press Enter
- Wait for the scan to complete and follow the on-screen prompts
How to run DISM:
-
In the same elevated terminal, run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Press Enter
- Wait for the process to complete (may take some time)
- Restart your PC
Step 4: Check and Modify Permissions
ERROR_151 could be triggered by lack of permissions to access files or folders.
Check folder permissions:
- Navigate to the folder causing the error (if identifiable)
- Right-click > Properties > Security tab
- Click Edit and check user permissions, especially for your user account and Administrators
- Ensure you have Full control
- Apply changes and try the operation again
If permission changes are blocked, you might need to take ownership:
- In the Security tab, click Advanced
- Next to “Owner,” click Change
- Type your username, click Check Names, then OK
- Check “Replace owner on subcontainers and objects,” click OK
Step 5: Clear Temporary Files and System Cache
temp files and cache clutter can cause file access conflicts leading to errors.
- Press Windows Key + R, type
cleanmgr, press Enter - Select your system drive (usually C:)
- Select Temporary files, System cache, and any other safe-to-delete options
- Click OK to clean
Alternatively, use Storage Sense:
- Go to Settings > System > Storage
- Enable Storage Sense, then run it immediately
Step 6: Run the Program as Administrator
If ERROR_151 arises from launching or installing software, running the program with administrator rights might help.
- Right-click the program shortcut or installer
- Select Run as administrator
- Confirm any UAC prompts
- See if error persists
Step 7: Check Disk for Errors
File system errors can trigger ERROR_151. Running a disk check may resolve these issues.
- Open Command Prompt (Admin)
-
Type:
chkdsk C: /f /r /x
- Press Enter
- You will be prompted that the drive is in use and asked to schedule on next restart — press Y
- Restart your PC to let the disk scan complete
Step 8: Reinstall Problematic Software or Drivers
If ERROR_151 occurs with specific software or hardware, uninstalling and reinstalling might fix corrupted program files or drivers.
- Open Settings > Apps > Apps & features
- Find the problematic app, click it, and choose Uninstall
- Visit the vendor’s website, download the latest version, and reinstall
- For drivers, use Device Manager:
- Right-click Start > Device Manager
- Find the device, right-click > Uninstall device
- Restart PC; Windows will try to reinstall drivers automatically
Step 9: Perform a System Restore
If ERROR_151 started recently, restoring your PC to a previous healthy state may help.
- Search Create a restore point from Start menu
- Click System Restore, then Next
- Select a restore point dated before the issue began
- Follow prompts to restore and restart
Step 10: Contact Microsoft Support (If Needed)
If none of the above works, it may be time to get expert help. Contact Microsoft Support or use their online forums for more advanced troubleshooting.
- Visit Microsoft Support
- Use live chat, call, or community forums for assistance
Final Thoughts
Windows ERROR_151 can be a headache, but with patience and systematic troubleshooting, you can often resolve it without needing professional repair. Always back up critical data before making major system changes, and reach out if you’re unsure.
Did this guide help you fix ERROR_151? Let me know in the comments! Your experience could help others facing the same issue.
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Stay calm, follow these steps, and your Windows system will be back on track in no time!
