Windows ERROR_202 can be frustrating, especially if you depend heavily on your PC for work or personal projects. It often manifests as an error message that disrupts your workflow, leaving you unsure of what to do next. Don’t worry — in this detailed, step-by-step guide, we will walk you through practical solutions to resolve Windows ERROR_202 effectively.
What is Windows ERROR_202?
Before diving into the fix, it’s important to understand what ERROR_202 is. Typically, this error code relates to issues with system files or software conflicts that cause Windows operations to fail. It can appear during system startup, while running applications, or even when performing updates.
Why Does Windows ERROR_202 Occur?
Common reasons behind ERROR_202 include:
- Corrupted system files
- Malware or virus infections
- Conflicts with installed software or drivers
- Faulty Windows updates
- Insufficient permissions or system resource limitations
Understanding the cause can help narrow down the best fix.
How to Fix Windows ERROR_202: Step-by-Step
Let’s get into actionable steps to resolve this error with clear instructions you can follow:
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart is all it takes to clear temporary glitches causing ERROR_202.
- Click Start > Power > Restart
- After reboot, check if the error reappears
Pro Tip: If restarting didn’t help, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Run Windows System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupt or missing system files often trigger ERROR_202. Windows has a built-in tool to repair these.
- Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin)
-
In the terminal window, type:
sfc /scannow
- Press Enter
- The scan may take some time. Let it complete and automatically fix any detected issues.
- Once done, restart your PC and see if ERROR_202 is resolved.
Step 3: Use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Tool
If SFC couldn’t fix all issues, DISM can repair the Windows image, which might resolve deeper problems.
- Open Windows Terminal (Admin) again
-
Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Allow the process to finish (this might take 10-20 minutes)
- After completion, restart your machine and test for the error.
Step 4: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft frequently releases patches and updates that fix bugs like ERROR_202.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings
- Go to Update & Security > Windows Update
- Click Check for updates
- Install all available updates, then restart your computer.
Step 5: Remove or Disable Conflicting Software
Some applications and drivers can cause ERROR_202 conflicts.
-
Press Windows + R, type:
appwiz.cpl
- Hit Enter to open Programs and Features.
- Review recently installed or suspicious apps, especially system utilities or antivirus programs.
- Uninstall or temporarily disable them.
- Restart your PC and verify if the problem persists.
Step 6: Scan for Malware and Viruses
Malware infections might masquerade as error codes like ERROR_202.
- Open your preferred antivirus or Windows Defender
- Run a full system scan
- Follow prompts to quarantine or remove threats
- Restart your computer afterward.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot to Diagnose Startup Issues
This step helps isolate software conflicts by booting Windows with minimum drivers and startup programs.
-
Press Windows + R, type:
msconfig
- Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
- Disable all enabled startup items.
- Close and click OK in the System Configuration window.
- Restart your PC and check if ERROR_202 still appears.
If the error is gone, gradually enable services/startup programs to identify the cause.
Step 8: Restore Windows to an Earlier Point
If ERROR_202 started recently, a system restore can undo problematic changes.
-
Press Windows + S, type:
Create a restore point
- Open System Properties > System Protection tab > System Restore
- Choose a restore point dated before the error started
- Follow the wizard to complete the process
- After restoring, check if the error is resolved.
Step 9: Reset or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If nothing else works, you may need to reset Windows, which reinstalls the OS while optionally keeping your files.
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery
- Click Get started under Reset this PC
- Choose either Keep my files or Remove everything depending on your preference
- Follow on-screen instructions carefully.
Note: Back up important files before this step.
Final Thoughts and Tips
- Always keep backups of your important data to avoid loss during troubleshooting.
- Use reliable antivirus software to prevent infections.
- Regularly update Windows and device drivers.
- If unsure, seek help from professional tech support.
Summary: Fixing Windows ERROR_202 is Doable!
While encountering Windows ERROR_202 can feel overwhelming, this step-by-step guide empowers you to troubleshoot confidently. Start with simple fixes like system scans and updates, then move to more advanced solutions if needed. Patience and methodical testing will get your PC back in great shape!
If this guide helped you, please share it with others facing similar issues. Have questions or additional tips? Feel free to leave a comment below!
