If you’ve encountered Windows System Error Code ERROR_118, you know how frustrating it can be to have your system suddenly stop working smoothly. This error, which is typically associated with network connection issues or hardware communication failure, can disrupt your workflow or even put your data at risk. But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through detailed, easy-to-follow steps to fix the error and get your Windows system back to normal.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_118?
Before diving into fixes, it’s helpful to understand what ERROR_118 means. The code is often described as:
"The device is not connected."
This usually indicates that Windows is having trouble communicating with a hardware device, such as a network adapter or external peripheral, or there’s a connection timeout relating to your network.
Common Causes of ERROR_118
- Faulty or disconnected hardware device
- Corrupted or outdated drivers
- Network connection issues or timeouts
- Problems with system files or registry entries
- Conflicts with firewall or antivirus software
How to Fix Windows System Error Code ERROR_118: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Devices
A simple restart often clears temporary glitches:
- Save any important work.
- Restart your PC.
- If the error is related to an external device (USB, network adapter), unplug it, wait 10 seconds, and plug it back in.
- Check if the error persists.
Tip: Restarting refreshes connections and resets device statuses, which might eliminate the error.
Step 2: Check Hardware Connections
Ensure hardware causing the error is properly connected:
- Inspect cables (USB, Ethernet, HDMI) for damage.
- Remove any adapters or hubs and connect devices directly.
- If using wireless peripherals, ensure batteries are charged.
- Try connecting the device to another USB port or machine.
If your device isn’t detected on another machine, the hardware might be faulty and require repair or replacement.
Step 3: Update or Reinstall Device Drivers
Outdated or corrupt drivers are a common cause of ERROR_118:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Locate the problematic device (for network issues, look under Network adapters).
- Right-click the device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- If no update is found, try uninstalling the driver:
- Right-click the device > Uninstall device.
- Restart your PC; Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.
- Alternatively, download the latest drivers from your device manufacturer’s website.
Pro Tip: Keep your drivers regularly updated to avoid similar errors in the future.
Step 4: Run the Network Troubleshooter (If Network-Related)
If ERROR_118 occurs during network operations:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status.
- Click Network troubleshooter.
- Follow on-screen instructions to detect and fix network issues.
The troubleshooter can automatically identify and resolve connection problems that may trigger ERROR_118.
Step 5: Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings
Sometimes security software blocks connections or device access:
- Open your firewall or antivirus program.
- Temporarily disable protection and check if the error resolves.
- If it does, add exceptions for the problematic device or program.
- Re-enable protection to safeguard your system.
Caution: Don’t leave firewall or antivirus disabled longer than necessary, as it increases your risk of attacks.
Step 6: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tools
Corrupted system files might be causing ERROR_118:
- Press Windows + S, type
cmd. - Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
-
Run the System File Checker by typing:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan to complete (this can take several minutes).
- If issues are found and repaired, restart your PC and test.
If the problem persists, run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
This repairs the system image and often fixes intractable errors.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot
Software conflicts can cause ERROR_118:
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services box.
- Click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Restart your PC and check if the error remains.
If the error is gone, re-enable services and startup items one by one to identify the culprit.
Step 8: Restore or Reset Your System (Last Resort)
If none of the above steps work:
-
Try restoring your system to an earlier restore point before the error started:
- Search for Create a restore point in the Start menu.
- Open System Restore.
- Follow prompts to select and apply a restore point.
- If restoration doesn’t fix the problem, consider resetting Windows:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
- Choose Reset this PC.
- Follow instructions to either keep your files or remove everything.
Warning: Resetting your PC may remove apps and settings, so back up your important data first.
Final Thoughts
Encountering Windows System Error Code ERROR_118 can be inconvenient, but armed with these detailed troubleshooting steps, you can tackle the issue head-on. Start with the simpler fixes and move towards advanced solutions if necessary. Remember, patience and systematic approaches save time and stress!
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or bookmark it for future reference! And if you have questions or success stories, feel free to leave a comment below—we’d love to hear from you.
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Happy troubleshooting and may your system run smoothly again!
