If you are facing Windows System Error Code ERROR_290, you’re not alone. This error can be frustrating because it interrupts your workflow and can hinder your Windows system operations. Don’t worry! In this detailed, easy-to-follow guide, we’ll help you understand what ERROR_290 means and show you exactly how to fix it quickly. Let’s get your system back on track.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_290?
Before jumping into the solutions, it helps to understand what this error signifies:
- ERROR_290 usually indicates a problem related to a service process recovery failure on Windows.
- It is often triggered when a system service fails to start or recover after an unexpected shutdown or crash.
- This can cause system instability, crashes, or failure of critical Windows services.
Now that we know the cause, let’s dive into the solutions.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart can fix transient issues causing ERROR_290.
- Click on Start Menu.
- Select Power > Restart.
- After reboot, check if the error persists.
If the error is still there, move on to the next step.
Step 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Corrupt or missing system files are common culprits behind ERROR_290. To fix this:
Run System File Checker:
- Press Windows + S, type cmd.
- Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
-
In the command window, type:
sfc /scannow
- Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete.
- If any corrupt files are found, the tool will repair them.
Run DISM Tool (if SFC didn’t fix the issue):
-
In the same elevated Command Prompt window, type:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Press Enter.
- Wait for the process to finish — it can take several minutes.
- Once done, restart your computer.
Step 3: Check and Restart the Problematic Service
The ERROR_290 often relates to a specific Windows service failing to recover.
- Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
- In the Services window, look for the service related to the error (e.g., if you know which service failed).
- Right-click the service, select Properties.
- Go to the Recovery tab.
- Ensure the “First failure” and “Second failure” actions are set to Restart the Service.
- Click Start (if the service isn’t running) or Restart.
- Click OK.
If you’re unsure which service is causing the issue, refer to the Event Viewer:
- Press Windows + X, select Event Viewer.
- Expand Windows Logs > System.
- Look for errors related to service failure around the time ERROR_290 occurred.
Step 4: Update Windows and Drivers
Outdated Windows versions or drivers can cause system errors.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Select Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates and restart your PC.
For drivers:
- Open Device Manager (Windows + X > Device Manager).
- Expand the relevant hardware categories.
- Right-click devices and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot helps identify if third-party programs are causing conflicts.
- Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services.
- Click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
- Restart your computer.
Check if the ERROR_290 persists. If not, enable services and startup items one-by-one to find the culprit.
Step 6: Use System Restore
If ERROR_290 appeared recently, you can restore your system to an earlier point:
- Press Windows + S, type Create a restore point, and select it.
- Click System Restore in the System Protection tab.
- Follow the prompts to choose a restore point before the error appeared.
- Confirm and let Windows restore your system.
Step 7: Contact Microsoft Support or IT Professional
If none of the above steps work, the problem might be more complex or hardware-related. Don’t hesitate to:
- Reach out to Microsoft Support.
- Consult with a professional technician.
- Backup your important files and consider reinstalling Windows as a last resort.
Final Thoughts
Encountering Windows System Error Code ERROR_290 can be stressful, but with these clear, human-friendly steps, you’ll likely resolve the issue quickly and safely. Remember, perform each step carefully, and don’t skip backing up your data when trying more advanced fixes.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or colleagues facing similar problems. And feel free to reach out with questions or tips — we’re here to help!
Keywords: Windows System Error Code ERROR_290, fix ERROR_290, Windows service error, system file checker, DISM tool, system restore, service recovery failure, Windows troubleshooting
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