How to Fix Windows System Error Code ERROR_189: Step-by-Step Guide

Windows is a powerful operating system, but like any software, it occasionally runs into errors that can disrupt your workflow. One such hiccup is Windows System Error Code ERROR_189. If you’ve encountered this error, you’re not alone — and more importantly, there’s a way to fix it.

In this comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about fixing ERROR_189 on your Windows PC. Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned user, these step-by-step instructions will get your system back on track in no time.

What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_189?

Before diving into the solution, let’s quickly understand what ERROR_189 means. Windows error codes are numeric values corresponding to specific faults triggered by hardware or software issues. ERROR_189 typically indicates a hardware or driver malfunction, often related to device conflicts or faulty installations.

Symptoms might include:

• Devices or peripherals failing to work properly.
• System freezes or crashes during device operation.
• Error messages popping up when trying to use specific hardware.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest fix often works wonders.

• Why? Restarting clears temporary caches and resets processes that might be causing the issue.
• How to do it? Click on the Start Menu → select Power → then Restart.
• After rebooting, check if ERROR_189 still appears.

Step 2: Run Windows Troubleshooter for Hardware

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter designed to detect and resolve hardware issues.

• Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
• Go to Update & Security → select Troubleshoot from the left panel.
• Click on Additional troubleshooters.
• Find and run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter.
• Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any suggested fixes.
• Restart the PC once finished.

Step 3: Update Device Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause ERROR_189. Keeping your drivers up to date can solve many device-related problems.

• Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
• Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark — these indicate issues.
• Right-click on the problematic device and select Update driver.
• Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
• Follow the prompts to install any updates.
• If no update is found, visit the device manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers manually.
• Restart your PC after driver updates.

Step 4: Roll Back Recently Updated Drivers

If ERROR_189 started appearing after a driver update, rolling back to the previous version might help.

• Open Device Manager as above.
• Right-click on the device and select Properties.
• Navigate to the Driver tab.
• Click Roll Back Driver if the option is available.
• Follow the prompts and reboot your system.

Step 5: Check Device Connections and Hardware

Sometimes the cause is as simple as a loose or faulty connection.

• Shut down your computer.
• Physically disconnect and reconnect the affected device (e.g., USB devices, external drives).
• If possible, try connecting the device to another port or another computer to rule out hardware failure.
• For internal hardware, ensure components like RAM or graphics cards are securely seated.

Step 6: Scan for Malware and Viruses

Malicious software can corrupt device files or disrupt driver operations.

• Use Windows Defender or any trusted antivirus software.
• Fully scan your system.
• Quarantine or delete any infections.
• Restart your PC.

Step 7: Perform System File Check (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can cause ERROR_189. Use Windows built-in tools to detect and repair damaged files.

• Press Windows + S and type cmd.
• Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.

• In the Command Prompt, type:

  sfc /scannow

  and press Enter.

• Wait for the process to complete.

• Following SFC, run:

  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

• Once done, reboot your PC.

Step 8: Check Windows Updates

Microsoft frequently releases patches that fix bugs and compatibility issues.

• Open Settings (Windows + I).
• Go to Update & Security → Windows Update.
• Click Check for updates.
• Install all available patches and restart.

Step 9: Restore Your System to an Earlier Point

If ERROR_189 started recently, using System Restore could rescue your system from the problematic state.

• Press Windows + S and type Create a restore point.
• Click the matching result to open System Properties.
• Click System Restore….
• Choose a restore point dated before you noticed the error.
• Follow the prompts to restore your system.
• Restart and check if the error persists.

Step 10: Seek Professional Help

If none of the above solutions work, the issue might be complex or hardware-related beyond basic troubleshooting.

• Contact the device manufacturer’s support.
• Reach out to a trusted computer technician.
• Consider Windows reinstallation as a last resort, backing up important files first.

Windows System Error Code ERROR_189 can be frustrating, but with patience and methodical troubleshooting, you can fix it. Remember, keeping your system updated and regularly maintained prevents many errors down the road.

Enjoy a smoother, error-free Windows experience!

Did this guide help you fix ERROR_189? Share your experience or ask questions in the comments below — we’re here to help!

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