Windows ERROR_29 is a frustrating issue that can disrupt your workflow and leave you scratching your head. Whether you encountered this error during system startup, application installation, or routine operations, don’t worry — this detailed, step-by-step guide is here to help you diagnose and fix ERROR_29 efficiently. Let’s dive in!
What is Windows ERROR_29?
Before jumping into fixes, it’s important to understand what ERROR_29 means. This Windows error code typically indicates a “Resource Format Error” or indicates that a resource the system or program is trying to access does not have the correct format or is corrupted.
Common scenarios where ERROR_29 appears:
- During system startup or shutdown
- When launching specific applications
- Running device drivers or hardware-related software
- Installing software updates or patches
Why Fix ERROR_29 Immediately?
Ignoring this error can lead to:
- Application crashes or freezes
- System instability
- Data loss or corruption
- Hardware malfunctions
By fixing this error, you’ll restore your system’s stability and avoid potential headaches down the road.
Step 1: Restart Your PC
Why: Sometimes, a simple restart clears temporary glitches that cause error codes like ERROR_29.
- Save your work and close all applications.
- Click Start > Power > Restart.
- After reboot, check if the error persists.
If the error is gone, great! If not, move to the next step.
Step 2: Run Windows System File Checker (SFC) Tool
Why: ERROR_29 often stems from corrupted or missing system files. The SFC scan finds and repairs these files.
How to run SFC:
- Press Windows key + S, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
-
In the command window, type:
sfc /scannow
- Press Enter.
- Wait for the scan to complete. It may take several minutes.
- Once finished, review the results:
- If errors were fixed, restart your PC.
- If it reports issues it cannot fix, proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Run the Deployment Image Service and Management Tool (DISM)
Why: DISM repairs the underlying Windows image and can fix corruption that SFC can’t touch.
How to run DISM:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator (see Step 2).
-
Type:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Hit Enter and wait patiently. This process might take 10-20 minutes.
- After completion, reboot your PC.
- Check if ERROR_29 appears again.
Step 4: Check and Update Device Drivers
Why: Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause resource errors like ERROR_29.
How to update your drivers:
- Press Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand critical categories (e.g., Display adapters, Network adapters).
- Right-click on each item and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow prompts to install updates.
- Restart your PC after updates are applied.
Alternatively, visit your device manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.
Step 5: Scan Your PC for Malware
Why: Malicious software can trigger various system errors, including ERROR_29.
How to scan:
- Open Windows Security by typing it in the Start menu.
- Go to Virus & threat protection.
- Click Quick scan (or Full scan for more thorough check).
- Follow instructions to quarantine/remove any threats found.
- Once clean, restart your computer.
Step 6: Check for Windows Updates
Why: Microsoft regularly releases patches that fix bugs causing errors like ERROR_29.
How to check for updates:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Download and install any available updates.
- Restart your PC afterward.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot
Why: Conflicting third-party apps or services might cause ERROR_29.
Step to clean boot:
- Press Windows key + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
- Go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services.
- Click Disable all.
- Navigate to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
- Restart your PC and see if the issue persists.
If the error disappears, you can re-enable services/startup items one by one to identify the culprit.
Step 8: Use System Restore
Why: If ERROR_29 started recently, system restore can roll back Windows to a prior, error-free state.
How to restore:
- Type Create a restore point into the Start menu and open it.
- Click System Restore.
- Choose a restore point dated before the error started occurring.
- Follow the wizard to complete the restoration.
Note: System Restore will not affect your personal files but will uninstall recent system changes.
Step 9: Reinstall Problematic Software or Drivers
If ERROR_29 appears only when using a specific program or piece of hardware:
- Uninstall the application or driver via Apps & Features or Device Manager.
- Download the latest version from the official website.
- Install and restart your PC.
Step 10: Seek Professional Help
If none of the above methods work, it may be time to contact Microsoft Support or a professional technician. There could be deeper underlying issues with your Windows installation or hardware that require advanced diagnostics.
Encountering Windows errors like ERROR_29 can be discouraging, but with patience and methodical troubleshooting, most problems are fixable without losing data or reinstalling Windows. Always make sure to back up important files regularly to avoid data loss.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends who might face the same issue. Comments and questions are welcome below — we’re here to help!
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Thank you for reading, and best of luck fixing your ERROR_29!
