If you’ve encountered the Windows ERROR_259, also known as the "No more data is available" error, you’re not alone. This error can be frustrating as it usually indicates issues with processes, services, or system calls that are expecting data or handles which aren’t available anymore. The good news? You can troubleshoot and fix it with a few systematic steps.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Windows ERROR_259, why it happens, and how to fix it step-by-step — helping you get your system back to smooth operation.
What is Windows ERROR_259?
ERROR_259 is a Windows system error code that translates to:
"No more data is available."
This often pops up in contexts such as:
- When a process or service tries to access handles or data buffers that have been closed or emptied.
- Software or scripts that communicate via pipes or transfer data between processes.
- Misconfigured or corrupted system files or drivers.
Understanding the root cause is your first step to fixing it.
Common Causes of ERROR_259
- Closed or Unavailable Handles – The resource you’re trying to access is no longer available.
- Faulty or incompatible device drivers or software – Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause unexpected errors.
- Corrupted system files – System files necessary for operations might be damaged.
- Registry errors – Incorrect or corrupt registry entries can cause system malfunction.
How to Fix Windows ERROR_259: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Reboot Your Computer
Sometimes, system errors are temporary glitches.
- Close all programs.
- Restart your PC.
- Check if the error persists.
If the error disappears, it was likely a temporary resource issue.
Step 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Corrupted system files often cause such errors.
-
Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
- Press Windows Key + S, type
cmd - Right-click Command Prompt, select Run as administrator
- Press Windows Key + S, type
-
Run the System File Checker tool by typing:
sfc /scannow
-
Wait for the scan to complete. If issues are found, Windows will attempt to fix them.
-
Next, run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Restart your computer and check if ERROR_259 is resolved.
Step 3: Update Device Drivers
Old or faulty drivers can cause process communication errors.
- Press Windows Key + X, select Device Manager.
- Look for any device with a yellow exclamation mark.
- Right-click the device → Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow prompts to install updates.
- Reboot and check for error resolution.
Step 4: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft regularly releases patches to fix such errors.
- Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
- Click Update & Security → Windows Update.
- Press Check for updates.
- Install any pending updates.
- Restart your PC.
Step 5: Use Event Viewer for More Clues
If ERROR_259 persists, the Event Viewer might give you detailed logs.
- Press Windows Key + X, select Event Viewer.
- Navigate to Windows Logs → System or Application.
- Look for errors or warnings around the time ERROR_259 occurred.
- Use the details for further troubleshooting or to ask for expert help with the exact error messages.
Step 6: Clean Up Your Registry (Advanced)
Warning: Editing the registry can cause system issues. Backup the registry before proceeding.
- Press Windows Key + R, type
regedit, press Enter. - Navigate to potential problematic keys related to the software or process throwing ERROR_259.
- Use trusted third-party tools like CCleaner to scan and fix registry errors.
- Restart your PC.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot
Isolate possible software conflicts that cause ERROR_259.
- Press Windows Key + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services.
- Click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Restart your PC.
If the error disappears, enable services one-by-one to identify the culprit.
Step 8: Reinstall or Repair the Affected Application
If ERROR_259 is associated with a specific app or program:
- Open Control Panel → Programs and Features.
- Locate your program.
- Choose Repair (if available) or Uninstall then reinstall a fresh copy.
- Restart your PC.
Step 9: Perform System Restore
If the error started recently, a restore could roll back problematic changes.
- Press Windows Key + S, type
System Restore. - Open Create a restore point.
- Click System Restore, follow prompts.
- Choose a restore point from before the error began.
- Complete the process and restart.
Final Thoughts
Facing Windows ERROR_259 can be stressful, but with the steps above, you can methodically identify and fix the issue. Start with the simple things like rebooting and updating drivers, then move to advanced fixes like system scans or clean boots. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to Microsoft support or a trusted IT professional.
Pro Tip:
Always back up your important data regularly to avoid data loss during troubleshooting.
FAQs about ERROR_259
Q: Can a virus cause ERROR_259?
A: Yes, malware interfering with system files or services can trigger this. Running a full system antivirus scan is recommended.
Q: Is ERROR_259 common in all Windows versions?
A: It can occur across Windows versions but is more often seen in Windows 7, 8, and 10.
Q: Can I ignore this error?
A: If the error doesn’t impact system or application performance, it might be safe to ignore temporarily. However, consistent errors mean something needs fixing.
By following this guide, you should be able to fix Windows ERROR_259 and keep your PC running smoothly. Good luck! If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or colleagues facing similar issues.
