If you’ve ever encountered Windows System Error Code ERROR_27, you know how frustrating it can be. This error typically relates to a device driver issue, meaning Windows is having trouble communicating with a particular piece of hardware. Don’t worry—it’s a common issue, and in this guide, I’ll walk you through the most effective, step-by-step solutions to get your system back on track quickly and safely.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_27?
Before diving into the fixes, it’s helpful to understand what ERROR_27 means:
- Error Code 27: "The driver for this device might be corrupted, or your system may be running low on memory or other resources."
- This error often pops up in Device Manager and usually relates to devices such as network adapters, printers, or USB devices.
Understanding this will help you diagnose and fix the root cause instead of just treating symptoms.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sounds simple, but a quick restart can clear the temporary system or memory glitches that cause ERROR_27. Sometimes, after a fresh boot, drivers reload properly, and the error disappears.
- Save any work.
- Click Start > Power > Restart.
If the error persists, move on to the next step.
Step 2: Check Device Manager for Problematic Drivers
Windows Device Manager is your go-to tool for hardware-related issues.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Look for any devices with a yellow triangle ⚠️.
- Right-click the problem device and select Properties.
- Under the General tab, check the device status. It usually mentions ERROR_27 and a brief description.
This confirms the problematic device.
Step 3: Uninstall and Reinstall the Device Driver
Corrupted or outdated drivers are the most common cause of ERROR_27. Reinstalling the driver often resolves this.
- In Device Manager, right-click the device with the error.
- Select Uninstall device.
- When prompted, check Delete the driver software for this device if available.
- After uninstalling, restart your computer.
- Upon restart, Windows might automatically reinstall the correct driver.
If Windows doesn’t reinstall the driver or the problem continues, manually installing the latest driver (step 4) is the way to go.
Step 4: Download and Install the Latest Driver from Manufacturer’s Website
Windows Update doesn’t always have the latest drivers, so it’s best to get them straight from the source.
- Note the exact model of your device (you can find it in the device’s properties or on the physical hardware).
- Go to the manufacturer’s official website (e.g., Intel, Realtek, HP, Dell).
- Navigate to the Support or Drivers section.
- Find the appropriate driver for your OS version (Windows 10, 11, etc.).
- Download, run the installer, and follow the instructions.
- Restart your PC after installation.
Step 5: Free Up System Resources
Since ERROR_27 mentions the system might be running low on memory or resources, ensuring your PC has enough free RAM and storage can help.
- Close unnecessary programs running in the background using Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
- Run Disk Cleanup:
- Press Windows + S, type “Disk Cleanup,” and run it.
- Select your system drive (usually C:) and clean up temporary and unnecessary files.
- If you suspect low physical RAM, consider upgrading your hardware or limiting startup programs:
- Open Task Manager > Startup tab > disable non-essential programs.
Step 6: Run System File Checker and DISM Tool
Corrupted system files may cause driver errors too. Windows includes tools to fix this:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
- Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator.
-
Run the System File Checker:
bash
sfc /scannow- Wait for it to complete; it will fix corrupted system files.
-
Run the DISM tool to repair Windows image:
bash
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth- This process might take several minutes.
Reboot your PC afterward.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot
Sometimes software conflicts cause ERROR_27. A clean boot starts Windows with only essential drivers and programs:
- Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
- Go to 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 System Configuration.
- Restart your PC.
Check if the error disappears. If yes, re-enable services and startup items one by one to identify the culprit.
Step 8: Update Windows
Microsoft frequently releases patches that fix device compatibility issues.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Download and install any available updates.
- Restart your computer.
Step 9: Seek Professional Help
If none of the above works, the hardware itself could be faulty, or the issue could be complex.
- Contact the device manufacturer’s support.
- Consult a trusted computer technician.
Final Thoughts
Windows System Error Code ERROR_27 can disrupt your workflow, but with patience and the right steps, you can fix it. Start with simple restarts, then move on to driver updates and system checks. I hope this guide helps you feel confident tackling and resolving ERROR_27.
If you found this guide useful, feel free to share it with others facing this error!
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Have questions or need further assistance? Drop a comment below! I’m here to help.
