Windows errors can be frustrating—especially when you encounter error codes like ERROR_4 without much explanation. If you’ve been stopped in your tracks by this pesky system error, don’t worry. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to fix Windows System Error Code ERROR_4 with detailed, easy-to-follow steps. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned user, this walkthrough will help you regain control and get your system back on track.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_4?
Before diving into the fix, let’s understand what ERROR_4 means. This error code typically indicates:
- "The system cannot open the file."
- It often occurs when Windows tries to access system files or resources that are missing, corrupted, or blocked.
Common triggers for ERROR_4 include:
- Corrupted system files
- Malware or virus infections
- Improper software installations
- Insufficient permissions or user rights
- Disk or hardware issues
How to Fix ERROR_4: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, the simplest fixes come first.
- Why? A reboot clears temporary glitches that might cause ERROR_4.
- How? Click Start > Power > Restart.
Once your PC boots back up, see if the error persists.
Step 2: Run Windows System File Checker (SFC)
Damaged or missing system files are a common culprit.
-
Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
- Press
Win + S, typecmd, right-click on Command Prompt, choose Run as administrator.
- Press
-
Type the following command and press Enter:
bash
sfc /scannow - Wait for the scan to complete. It will automatically detect and repair corrupt files.
- Restart your PC and check for ERROR_4 again.
Step 3: Use DISM Tool for Advanced Repair
If SFC doesn’t fix the problem, DISM might.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator again.
-
Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
bash
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - These commands check and repair the Windows image.
- After completion, reboot your PC.
Step 4: Check and Manage Disk Errors
Disk issues can trigger system errors like ERROR_4.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
-
Enter this command to scan and fix disk errors:
bash
chkdsk /f /r - You’ll receive a message that the disk is in use and will ask to schedule a scan on next restart. Type
Yand press Enter. - Restart your PC to let the scan run.
Step 5: Scan for Malware and Viruses
Malicious software can damage system files leading to errors.
- Use Windows Defender or your preferred antivirus tool.
- Run a full system scan and quarantine any detected threats.
- Restart after cleaning.
Step 6: Check User Permissions
ERROR_4 can sometimes appear due to insufficient permissions.
- Navigate to the file or folder causing issues.
- Right-click > Properties > Security tab.
- Ensure your user account has Full Control.
- If not, click Edit, select your user, and check Full Control.
- Click Apply and OK.
Step 7: Update Windows and Drivers
Keeping your system and drivers updated can prevent this issue.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any available.
- Update hardware drivers via Device Manager:
- Right-click Start > Device Manager.
- Right-click a device and select Update driver.
Step 8: Perform a Clean Boot
A conflicting startup program might be causing the error.
- Press
Win + R, typemsconfig, and press Enter. - Go to the Services tab > check Hide all Microsoft services > click Disable all.
- Switch to the Startup tab > click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Restart your PC and see if the error is resolved.
- To undo, return and enable services/startup programs individually to isolate the culprit.
Step 9: Repair or Reinstall Problematic Software
If ERROR_4 happens during software use or installation:
- Use Add or Remove Programs to repair or uninstall the app.
- Reinstall the latest version from the official website.
Step 10: Restore Your System (Last Resort)
If all else fails, restoring your system to a previous point where it worked fine might help.
- Press
Win + S> type Create a restore point and open it. - Click System Restore > Next.
- Choose a restore point before you started encountering ERROR_4.
- Follow on-screen instructions.
Final Thoughts
ERROR_4 in Windows can feel overwhelming at first, but with patience and these step-by-step solutions, you’ll likely get your system running smoothly again. Remember to back up important files regularly so you’re protected no matter what!
If the error still isn’t fixed after trying all these steps, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support or a trusted technician, as it might indicate a deeper hardware issue.
Bonus Tips for Avoiding ERROR_4
- Keep Windows and apps regularly updated.
- Use a reputable antivirus program.
- Avoid downloading software from untrusted sources.
- Perform regular disk clean-ups and scans.
Did you find this guide helpful? Feel free to share your experience or questions below—I’m here to help! And remember, every user encounter is unique, so don’t hesitate to explore multiple fixes.
Keywords:
Windows system error code ERROR_4, fix ERROR_4 Windows 10, Windows error system cannot open file, ERROR_4 repair guide, Windows troubleshooting steps
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