Encountering the Windows System Error Code ERROR_138 can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of an important task. This error typically indicates an "Invalid device request," which means Windows is having trouble communicating properly with one of your hardware devices or drivers.
Don’t worry! In this detailed, easy-to-follow guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know and do to fix this issue. Whether you’re a tech newbie or somewhat experienced, these step-by-step instructions will help you troubleshoot and resolve ERROR_138 effectively.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_138?
Before diving into the fix, it’s helpful to understand what ERROR_138 means. This error occurs when:
- A device driver sends an invalid request to a device.
- The operating system is unable to process a device-related I/O control command.
- There could be hardware conflicts or outdated/corrupt drivers.
Common devices involved may include printers, USB devices, audio hardware, or network adapters.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart is all it takes.
- Save any open work.
- Click on the Start Menu.
- Select the Power button, then click Restart.
- Once Windows boots back up, check if ERROR_138 still appears.
Why this helps: Restarting clears temporary glitches and refreshes hardware and driver statuses.
Step 2: Run Windows Update
Keeping your system and drivers up to date is critical.
- Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates.
- Restart your computer if prompted.
Many driver-related errors are fixed with updates, enhancing compatibility and stability.
Step 3: Identify the Problematic Device
Knowing which device causes ERROR_138 is key.
- Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager.
- Look for any devices marked with a yellow exclamation mark (!) or red X.
- If you spot any, right-click on them and select Properties.
- Under the General tab, check the device status message—it may provide clues.
If the device status says something about an invalid request, this device is likely linked to ERROR_138.
Step 4: Update or Reinstall the Problematic Device Driver
Outdated or corrupt drivers are a common culprit.
To Update Driver:
- In Device Manager, right-click the problematic device.
- Select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow on-screen prompts.
To Reinstall Driver (if updating doesn’t help):
- Right-click the problematic device and select Uninstall device.
- Confirm if prompted, making sure Delete the driver software for this device is checked if available.
- Restart your computer.
- Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.
If Windows can’t reinstall the driver, visit the device manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver manually.
Step 5: Use the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Windows includes a troubleshooter that can detect and fix hardware issues.
- Open Settings (Windows Key + I).
- Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Scroll down and click Hardware and Devices.
- Select Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions, applying any suggested fixes.
Step 6: Check for Conflicting Devices or Software
Sometimes, third-party software or other devices interfere.
-
Remove Recently Installed Hardware/Software:
- Disconnect any new USB devices, printers, or peripherals you recently added.
- Uninstall any software installed around the time ERROR_138 started.
-
Boot into Safe Mode:
- Press Windows Key + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Go to the Boot tab.
- Check Safe boot and select Minimal.
- Click OK and restart your PC.
Safe Mode loads Windows with minimal drivers and software. If ERROR_138 disappears, it points to software or driver conflicts.
- Press Windows Key + R, type
Step 7: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Corrupted system files can trigger device errors.
- Press Windows Key, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
-
Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the process to complete. It will repair corrupted system files.
-
Next, run Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- After both complete, restart your PC.
Step 8: Perform a System Restore (Optional)
If ERROR_138 started recently, and you have System Restore points enabled:
- Press Windows Key + S, type System Restore, and select Create a restore point.
- Switch to the System Protection tab, then click System Restore.
- Choose a restore point from before the error started.
- Follow prompts to restore your system.
This can roll back changes causing the error without affecting personal files.
Final Thoughts: When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried all steps and ERROR_138 persists, there might be a deeper device hardware failure or OS corruption. Consider:
- Contacting the device manufacturer’s support.
- Taking your PC to a certified technician.
- Reinstalling Windows as a last resort (backup important data first).
Summary
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Restart Your Computer | Clear temporary glitches. |
| 2. Run Windows Update | Fix bugs with latest OS and driver updates. |
| 3. Identify Device | Find which hardware is problematic in Device Manager. |
| 4. Update/Reinstall Driver | Fix driver corruption or incompatibility. |
| 5. Run Troubleshooter | Automated fix for hardware problems. |
| 6. Check Conflicts | Remove recent devices/software or boot in Safe Mode. |
| 7. SFC and DISM | Repair system files and Windows image. |
| 8. System Restore | Roll back Windows to a previous working state. |
FAQs
Q: What devices commonly cause ERROR_138?
A: Printers, USB drives, audio cards, or network adapters often are involved.
Q: Does ERROR_138 mean my hardware is broken?
A: Not necessarily. It’s often driver-related but can sometimes indicate hardware faults.
Q: Can I ignore ERROR_138?
A: It’s best not to, as it may cause device malfunction or system instability.
Thank you for following this guide! If you found it helpful, please share it and comment below with your experience or any questions. Together, we’ll get your PC running smoothly again!
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