If you’ve encountered Windows ERROR_99, you’re not alone. This error can be frustrating, interrupting your workflow and leaving you unsure of what to do next. Don’t worry — in this detailed, easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to troubleshoot and fix ERROR_99 on your Windows PC effectively.
What is Windows ERROR_99?
Before jumping into solutions, it helps to understand what ERROR_99 means. ERROR_99 is a generic error code that Windows may display when a program or the operating system encounters an unexpected issue, often relating to system conflicts, corrupted files, or driver problems. It doesn’t point to a specific cause, making the troubleshooting process a bit more involved.
Common Causes of ERROR_99
- Corrupted system files
- Conflicting third-party software
- Outdated or incompatible hardware drivers
- Malware or virus infection
- Faulty Windows updates
- Registry errors
By identifying which cause aligns best with your situation, you can work towards a solution effectively.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fix Windows ERROR_99
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
It might sound simple, but restarting your PC can resolve many temporary glitches that lead to ERROR_99.
- Click Start > Power > Restart
- After rebooting, check if the error persists.
Step 2: Run the Windows Troubleshooter
Windows comes with built-in troubleshooters that automatically detect and fix common issues.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Choose the relevant troubleshooter (e.g., Program Compatibility or Windows Update).
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 3: Check for Windows Updates
Running your system with outdated files can cause errors.
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install all available updates.
- Restart your PC and see if ERROR_99 is resolved.
Step 4: Scan and Repair Corrupted System Files
Corrupted system files are a major reason behind ERROR_99.
-
Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
- Press Windows + X, then select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows Terminal (Admin).
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Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
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Wait for the process to complete. If corrupted files are found, SFC will automatically repair them.
- Restart your computer.
Additionally, you can execute:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
This tool repairs the Windows image and supports SFC in restoring your system files.
Step 5: Update or Reinstall Device Drivers
Faulty drivers frequently cause system errors.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Look for any devices with a yellow triangle (warning symbol).
- Right-click on the device and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
- If updating doesn’t help, select Uninstall device, then restart your PC, and Windows will reinstall the driver.
Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot to Identify Software Conflicts
Third-party software can interfere with Windows operations.
- Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services.
- Click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
- Restart your PC and check if ERROR_99 appears.
If the error disappears, gradually enable services and startup items to isolate the problematic software.
Step 7: Scan for Malware
Malicious software can cause unexpected errors.
- Use Windows Defender or a trusted third-party antivirus to perform a full system scan.
- Remove any detected threats.
- Restart your computer.
Step 8: Restore Your System to a Previous Point
If ERROR_99 started recently after a change, use System Restore.
- Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and press Enter.
- Follow the prompts to select a restore point dated before the error occurred.
- Complete the process and reboot.
Step 9: Reset or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If nothing else works, resetting Windows may be necessary.
- Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
- Choose Reset this PC.
- Opt to keep files or remove everything depending on your backup status.
- Follow the on-screen steps.
Tips to Prevent ERROR_99 in the Future
- Regularly update Windows and all software.
- Avoid installing suspicious programs.
- Keep your antivirus active and up-to-date.
- Back up your system frequently.
- Regularly check for driver updates.
Final Thoughts
Encountering Windows ERROR_99 can be unsettling, but with patience and the right steps, it’s fixable. By following this thorough guide, you can diagnose and resolve the root causes while minimizing downtime. Always remember to back up your important data before performing system-level changes.
If the error continues despite these efforts, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support or a professional technician for hands-on assistance.
Liked this guide? Share it with friends or colleagues facing similar issues! And don’t forget to bookmark our website for more helpful Windows troubleshooting tips.
Happy Computing!
