Encountering Windows ERROR_277 can be frustrating, especially if you need your PC up and running quickly. This error typically signals that an application or service on your Windows machine failed to start properly, often related to system or network issues. Don’t worry — in this comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide, I’ll walk you through each step to identify and fix ERROR_277, so your system returns to smooth operation.
What is Windows ERROR_277?
Windows ERROR_277 is an error code indicating that an application or service couldn’t start. It’s frequently associated with services failing to initialize due to configuration errors, permission issues, corrupted system files, or conflicts with other software.
Understanding the root of the problem helps you fix it faster, and that’s exactly what this guide aims to simplify.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, the most basic fixes work wonders.
- Save any open files.
- Click Start → Power → Restart.
- After reboot, check if ERROR_277 still appears.
If it persists, move on to deeper troubleshooting.
Step 2: Run the Windows Troubleshooter
Windows comes equipped with a handy troubleshooter that might catch the error automatically.
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security → Troubleshoot.
- Select the troubleshooter relevant to your issue, such as Program Compatibility Troubleshooter or Windows Store Apps.
- Follow the on-screen prompts.
If it resolves the issue, great! If not, continue below.
Step 3: Check Services for Proper Start-up
ERROR_277 often relates to services failing to start.
How to check:
- Press Windows key + R, type
services.msc
, then hit Enter. - In the Services window, look for recently installed or problematic services that failed to start.
- Right-click on the service and select Properties.
- Check the Startup type: it should usually be Automatic or Manual.
- Click Start under Service status if it’s stopped.
- Click Apply, then OK.
Tip: If the service won’t start, check the Dependencies tab to ensure dependent services are running.
Step 4: Run System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted system files may cause ERROR_277. The System File Checker tool can scan and repair these.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator:
- Click Start, type
cmd
. - Right-click Command Prompt, select Run as administrator.
- Click Start, type
-
In the black console window, type:
sfc /scannow
- Press Enter and let the scan complete (may take several minutes).
- If any corruptions are found, Windows will attempt to fix them automatically.
- Restart your PC.
Step 5: Check Event Viewer for Detailed Error Logs
Event Viewer provides detailed clues about ERROR_277.
- Press Windows key + R, type
eventvwr.msc
, hit Enter. - In the left pane, expand Windows Logs → Application.
- Look for red error entries around the time ERROR_277 appeared.
- Click on these errors to view details.
- Note down Event IDs and descriptions.
Why is this useful? These logs help identify exactly which service or application caused the issue, aiding you or tech support in fixing it efficiently.
Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot
Software conflicts can trigger service start failures.
Steps to clean boot your Windows:
- Press Windows key + R, type
msconfig
, and hit Enter. - Go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab, open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Restart your computer.
Now, check if ERROR_277 occurs again. If the problem disappears, gradually re-enable services/startups to isolate the culprit.
Step 7: Update Drivers and Windows
Outdated drivers or system versions may trigger ERROR_277.
- Press Windows key + I, go to Update & Security → Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any pending updates.
- For device drivers, go to Device Manager (right-click Start menu).
- Expand each category and right-click devices to select Update driver.
Step 8: Malware Scan
Malware can disrupt services and cause errors.
- Make sure your antivirus is up-to-date.
- Run a full system scan.
- Use reputable malware removal tools like Malwarebytes if needed.
- Remove detected threats and reboot.
Step 9: Restore Your System
If ERROR_277 started recently, a System Restore might fix it.
- Press Windows key + R, type
rstrui
, press Enter. - Follow the prompts to choose a restore point before the error started.
- Allow the restoration process to finish.
Step 10: Reinstall the Problematic Application (If Applicable)
If ERROR_277 occurs with a specific program, uninstall and reinstall may be the fix.
- Go to Control Panel → Programs and Features.
- Find the application, select it, and click Uninstall.
- Download the latest version from the official site.
- Install fresh and check for improvements.
Final Thoughts
Windows ERROR_277 can feel like a technical roadblock, but with patience and this step-by-step guide, most users can resolve the issue without needing advanced help.
Pro tip: Always keep your essential data backed up regularly to avoid data loss during troubleshooting.
If none of these steps work, it might be time to consult a professional technician — but hopefully, your system will be error-free after these measures!
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If you found this guide helpful, don’t hesitate to share it with friends or leave a comment below if you need more assistance. Happy troubleshooting!