Are you encountering the frustrating Windows ERROR_496 message on your computer? Don’t worry — you’re not alone, and more importantly, this error is usually fixable with some straightforward troubleshooting. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to resolve Windows ERROR_496 quickly and safely.
What is Windows ERROR_496?
Windows ERROR_496 is a system error code that typically indicates a problem with system files or conflicts within the operating system’s core processes. This error can arise from corrupted files, faulty updates, driver issues, or even malware infections.
Before diving into fixes, it’s essential to understand what might be causing this error on your machine so that you can address it effectively.
Common Causes of Windows ERROR_496
- Corrupted system files
- Incomplete or failed Windows updates
- Outdated or incompatible drivers
- Malware or virus infection
- Software conflicts
- Hardware issues (rare, but possible)
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Windows ERROR_496
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Before doing anything complicated, it’s always a good idea to restart your PC. Sometimes a simple reboot can clear out temporary glitches causing the error.
- Click Start > Power > Restart
- Once restarted, check if the error still appears.
Step 2: Run Windows System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted or missing system files are frequent culprits. The SFC tool scans and repairs these files automatically.
- Press Windows key + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
-
Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan to complete — it may take several minutes.
- If issues are found, the tool will attempt to fix them. Restart your PC afterward.
- Check if the ERROR_496 still occurs.
Step 3: Run DISM to Repair Windows Image
If SFC didn’t fully fix the problem, DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool) can repair the Windows system image.
- Open Windows Terminal (Admin) again.
-
Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Be patient, as these processes can take up to 20 minutes or more.
- Once complete, restart and see if the error persists.
Step 4: Update Your Drivers
Outdated or corrupt drivers can trigger ERROR_496. Update your key drivers, especially for graphics, network, and chipset.
- Press Windows key + X, select Device Manager.
- Expand the relevant categories, right-click each device, and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Alternatively, visit your PC manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers.
Step 5: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft frequently releases patches that fix bugs and errors.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates, then reboot.
Step 6: Scan for Malware
Sometimes, malware causes system errors.
- Run a full system scan using Windows Defender or your preferred antivirus software.
- Remove any threats detected.
- Restart your PC and check for error resolution.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot
Software conflicts could cause ERROR_496.
- Press Windows key + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
- Next, go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Restart your PC.
- See if the error is gone — if it is, re-enable services one by one to find the problematic app.
Step 8: Restore Your System
If the error started after recent changes, using System Restore can revert your system to a healthy state.
- Press Windows key, type Restore, click Create a restore point.
- In the System Protection tab, click System Restore.
- Follow the prompts to select a restore point before the error occurred.
- Finish the restore and reboot.
Step 9: Reset or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If none of the above steps help, it’s time for a reset or clean install.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
- Choose Reset this PC.
- You can keep your files or remove everything.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Tips to Prevent ERROR_496 in the Future
- Keep your Windows OS and drivers up to date.
- Regularly scan your PC for malware.
- Avoid installing untrusted software.
- Maintain regular backups.
- Use system restore points before key updates or installations.
Final Thoughts
Experiencing Windows ERROR_496 can be intimidating, but with patience and the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve it without professional help. Remember, a careful, methodical approach reduces the risk of further issues.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with others who might be struggling with the same error. And if you have questions or need further help, don’t hesitate to ask!
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Keywords: Windows ERROR_496, fix Windows error, Windows troubleshooting, system file repair, update Windows drivers, malware scan Windows, clean boot Windows, system restore Windows, DISM tool, SFC scan
Happy troubleshooting! Your PC will thank you.
