Windows System Error Code ERROR_23 is a frustrating issue that can disrupt your productivity, causing system errors or preventing specific programs from running correctly. Don’t worry — whether you’re a tech novice or an experienced user, this detailed, easy-to-follow guide will help you understand and fix ERROR_23 on your Windows computer.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_23?
Before diving into the fix, it’s good to know what ERROR_23 means. This error code generally indicates “CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) error”, which means that data validation has failed, possibly caused by:
- Corrupted system files
- Faulty or damaged hard drive sectors
- Issues during the file transfer or read process
- Malware or virus interference
Knowing this, your approach will be to identify and repair corruption, and ensure system integrity.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Before any deep troubleshooting, give your system a restart. Sometimes, temporary glitches cause ERROR_23 and a simple reboot can clear these minor hitches.
- Click the Start menu.
- Select Power > Restart.
- After reboot, check if the error persists.
If the error is still there, move to Step 2.
Step 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan
The SFC tool scans and repairs corrupted or missing system files that could trigger ERROR_23.
- Press Windows + S to open Search.
- Type cmd.
- Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
-
In the black command window, type:
bash
sfc /scannow - Press Enter.
- Wait patiently as Windows scans your files (this can take 10-15 minutes).
- Once completed, it will notify if files were repaired.
- Restart your PC and check if the error is resolved.
Step 3: Use CHKDSK to Check Disk Health
Because ERROR_23 often relates to data corruption, checking the health of your hard disk is crucial.
- Open an elevated Command Prompt again (as in Step 2).
-
Type the following command:
bash
chkdsk C: /f /r /x- Here
C:is the drive letter of your Windows OS — change this if your OS is on another drive. /ffixes errors on the disk./rlocates bad sectors and recovers readable information./xforces the drive to dismount before the process starts.
- Here
- Press Enter.
- You’ll be prompted: “Would you like to schedule this volume to be checked the next time the system restarts? (Y/N)” — type Y and press Enter.
- Restart your PC and allow CHKDSK to scan and repair your disk.
Note: CHKDSK can take some time depending on drive size and errors.
Step 4: Update Windows and Drivers
Outdated system files or device drivers can contribute to ERROR_23. Keeping your system updated is important.
Update Windows
- Open Settings (Windows + I).
- Select Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates.
- Restart if prompted.
Update Drivers
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Look for any devices with yellow warning signs.
- Right-click and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow on-screen instructions.
Step 5: Scan for Malware
Malicious software can corrupt files and cause system errors like ERROR_23.
- Open Windows Security by typing it in the Start menu.
- Go to Virus & threat protection.
- Click Quick Scan or Full scan for a more thorough check.
- Follow any prompts to remove detected malware.
- Restart your PC.
Step 6: Perform a System Restore (Optional)
If ERROR_23 recently appeared after software or system changes, rolling back to a previous system state can help.
- Search for Create a restore point in the Start menu.
- Click System Restore.
- Choose a restore point dated before the error started.
- Follow the wizard to complete the restoration.
Important: Your personal files will not be affected, but recently installed programs will be removed.
Step 7: Reinstall Affected Program or Windows (Last Resort)
If ERROR_23 is specific to a particular program:
- Uninstall the program from Settings > Apps.
- Download the latest version from the official website.
- Reinstall and check for the error.
If the error persists system-wide and all else fails, consider a Windows Reset or clean install after backing up your files.
Pro Tips to Prevent ERROR_23 in the Future
- Regularly update Windows and drivers.
- Keep antivirus software active and updated.
- Avoid sudden shutdowns or interruptions during file transfers.
- Run periodic disk checks and system scans.
- Back up important data frequently.
Final Words
ERROR_23 can feel daunting, but with patience and the right steps, it’s completely fixable. Following this guide will help you restore your Windows system health, getting you back on track quickly. Always remember to stay calm, and take each step carefully.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with others who might benefit and bookmark it for future reference. Happy computing!
Keywords:
Windows Error Code ERROR_23 fix, Windows CRC error, how to fix ERROR_23, Windows system error troubleshooting, fix Windows file corruption, CHKDSK error fix, SFC scan tutorial, Windows error codes.
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