Encountering the Windows System Error Code ERROR_248 can be frustrating, especially if you’re unsure what caused it and how to resolve it. Don’t worry—this step-by-step guide is here to help you fix the issue quickly and get your system running smoothly again.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_248?
Before diving into the fix, it’s useful to understand what ERROR_248 means. This error code typically reads as:
ERROR_248: The requested operation failed.
This error might occur during system startup, when installing updates, or while running specific applications. It’s often linked to corrupted system files, software conflicts, or hardware issues.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple reboot clears minor glitches that cause error codes.
- Save all your work.
- Click Start > Power > Restart.
- After reboot, check if ERROR_248 still appears.
If yes, move on to the next step.
Step 2: Run the Windows Troubleshooter
Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can detect and fix common problems.
- Click Start > Settings (gear icon).
- Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Select the troubleshooter related to your issue (e.g., Windows Update, Program Compatibility, or Hardware and Devices).
- Click Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.
This may automatically resolve conflicts causing ERROR_248.
Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted system files often trigger error codes like ERROR_248. Running the System File Checker can repair damaged files.
- Press Windows key + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
-
Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan to complete (this can take 10-20 minutes).
- If errors are found and fixed, restart your computer.
Step 4: Run the DISM Tool
If SFC couldn’t fix some issues, use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator again.
-
Execute these commands one by one (press Enter after each):
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Wait for each process to finish (this might take some time).
- Restart your PC after the final command.
Step 5: Check for Windows Updates
Keeping your system updated can fix known bugs that cause errors.
- Click Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates and restart your computer.
Step 6: Uninstall Recently Installed Software or Drivers
If ERROR_248 started after installing new programs or hardware drivers, one of them might be the culprit.
- Open Control Panel > Programs and Features.
- Sort by Installed On date.
- Uninstall any suspicious or newly added software.
- For drivers, open Device Manager (Windows key + X > Device Manager).
- Right-click recently updated or installed device drivers and select Uninstall device.
- Restart your PC and see if the error persists.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot helps isolate software conflicts:
- Press Windows key + R, type
msconfig, and hit Enter. - Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
- Restart your PC.
- Check if ERROR_248 appears. If not, re-enable services and startup items one by one to find the culprit.
Step 8: Check Your Hard Drive for Errors
A failing hard drive can cause system errors:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
-
Type
chkdsk /f /r
and press Enter.
- You will be asked to schedule the check on the next restart. Type Y and reboot your computer.
Step 9: Restore Your System to a Previous Point
If the error started recently, restoring your system may fix it without affecting your files.
- Press Windows key + S, type
restore point, and select Create a restore point. - Click System Restore.
- Follow the wizard to select a restore point dated before the ERROR_248 occurrence.
- Complete the process and let your system reboot.
Step 10: Contact Microsoft Support or Visit a Technician
If none of the above steps work, the problem might be deeper or hardware-related. Reach out to Microsoft Support or a trusted IT professional for advanced diagnostics.
Final Thoughts
ERROR_248 might seem intimidating at first, but with patience and the right approach, it’s often fixable with simple troubleshooting tools. Remember to back up important data regularly and keep your Windows system updated for the best performance.
If this guide helped you fix Error 248, feel free to share it with others who might be facing the same issue!
Keywords: Windows System Error Code, ERROR_248, Fix ERROR_248 Windows, Step-by-Step Windows Error Fix, System File Checker, DISM Tool, Windows Update, Troubleshoot Windows Error.
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