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Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause ERROR_189.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 + Xand 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 + Sand typecmd. - 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 + Sand 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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