Windows errors can be frustrating, especially when they interrupt your workflow or prevent you from accessing important files. One such common issue is Windows System Error Code ERROR_190. If you’ve encountered this error, you know how disruptive it can be. But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through how to fix ERROR_190 with easy, detailed steps.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_190?
Before we dive into the fixes, it’s helpful to understand what ERROR_190 means. This error is typically related to problems with device drivers or hardware communication on Windows systems. It often shows up with messages like “The system cannot find the file specified” or “Device failed to start.”
The error could be triggered by:
- Outdated or corrupted drivers
- Hardware conflicts
- System file corruption
- Improperly installed hardware devices
Knowing this helps us target the right solutions.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes the simplest solution is the best starting point.
- Save any open files.
- Restart your PC.
A reboot clears temporary glitches and refreshes system processes. Check if the error persists after restarting. If yes, move on to the next steps.
Step 2: Run Device Manager to Identify Problematic Devices
ERROR_190 often relates to hardware devices, so check Device Manager:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Look for any devices with a yellow warning icon — these indicate errors.
- Right-click on the device with issues and select Properties to see if ERROR_190 is mentioned.
- If found, move to updating or reinstalling the drivers for this device.
Step 3: Update Device Drivers Automatically
Outdated or corrupted drivers cause many hardware errors.
- In Device Manager, right-click the problem device.
- Click Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow on-screen prompts if any new drivers are found.
Tip: If automatic update doesn’t help, check the hardware manufacturer’s website for the latest driver and install it manually.
Step 4: Uninstall and Reinstall the Problematic Device
If updating doesn’t fix the problem, try reinstalling the problematic device’s driver:
- In Device Manager, right-click the device and select Uninstall device.
- Confirm the prompt by checking "Delete the driver software for this device" (if available).
- Restart your computer. Windows should reinstall the driver automatically on startup.
If Windows doesn’t reinstall the driver, manually install it from the manufacturer’s website.
Step 5: Run the System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tools
Corrupted system files can cause ERROR_190. Use Windows built-in tools to repair system files.
- Press Windows + S, type
cmd. - Right-click Command Prompt, choose Run as administrator.
-
Run the following command:
sfc /scannow
This tool will scan and fix corrupted files. Wait until it finishes.
-
Once complete, run the DISM tool to repair Windows image:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
This can take several minutes.
- Restart your PC and see if the error is resolved.
Step 6: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft regularly releases patches that address bugs and errors.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install all available updates, then restart your PC.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot
Sometimes third-party applications can interfere with hardware drivers, causing ERROR_190.
To perform a clean boot:
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services box.
- Click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK on System Configuration.
- Restart your computer.
If the error disappears, enable services one by one to identify the culprit.
Step 8: Consult Hardware Diagnostic Tools
If you suspect hardware issues (e.g., faulty RAM, hard drive), run diagnostic tests:
- For hard drives: Use tools like CrystalDiskInfo or built-in Windows CHKDSK.
- For RAM: Use Windows Memory Diagnostic tool.
To run CHKDSK:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
-
Type:
chkdsk /f /r
- You may be prompted to schedule the scan on the next reboot, type Y and reboot.
Step 9: Restore Windows to an Earlier Point
If ERROR_190 started happening recently, you can try restoring Windows to a previous state:
- Press Windows + R, type
rstruiand hit Enter. - Follow the wizard to select a restore point dated before you experienced the error.
- Restore your system and check for the issue.
Step 10: Seek Professional Help
If none of the above steps fix ERROR_190, there might be deeper hardware issues or system corruption requiring expert help.
- Contact your PC manufacturer or a trusted technician.
- Provide specific details about when and how the error appears.
Final Thoughts
Encountering Error 190 in Windows might feel overwhelming at first, but methodically troubleshooting can save you time and avoid costly repairs. Remember to be patient, follow each step carefully, and back up important data regularly. If you do run into trouble, professional support is always there to help.
FAQs About ERROR_190
Q: Can I ignore ERROR_190?
A: It’s not recommended. The error could indicate important hardware or driver issues that may worsen if ignored.
Q: Is my data at risk with this error?
A: Not directly, but related hardware problems could lead to data loss. Always back up regularly.
Q: Does ERROR_190 occur on all Windows versions?
A: It mainly affects Windows 10 and Windows 11 but can also appear in older versions depending on the hardware and drivers.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends experiencing the same error or bookmark it for quick reference. Your PC’s health is in your hands—and you’re now better equipped to fix Windows System Error Code ERROR_190!
