11 Most Common Windows Errors & How to Fix Them

Windows is the most widely used operating system worldwide, powering millions of desktops and laptops. Despite its popularity and constant updates, users often encounter various errors that can disrupt their workflow or even cause data loss. Understanding these common Windows errors and knowing how to fix them can save time, reduce frustration, and keep your system running smoothly.

This article explores the 11 most common Windows errors, explaining what they mean and providing practical steps to resolve each one. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, these insights will help you troubleshoot effectively and maintain a healthy PC.

1. Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)

The infamous Blue Screen of Death is one of the most dreaded errors in Windows. It occurs when the system encounters a critical error it cannot recover from, forcing an immediate shutdown to prevent damage.

BSODs often display a stop code or error message, such as “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL” or “PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA,” which can help identify the underlying issue.

Common Causes

BSODs can be triggered by faulty hardware, incompatible drivers, corrupted system files, or software conflicts. Overclocking and overheating can also cause these crashes.

How to Fix a BSOD

Start by noting the stop code displayed on the screen. Then, try the following steps:

• Update Drivers: Outdated or corrupt drivers are a frequent cause. Use Device Manager or visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest versions.
• Run Windows Update: Microsoft regularly releases patches that fix bugs and improve stability.
• Check for Hardware Issues: Use tools like Windows Memory Diagnostic to test your RAM and check hard drive health with CHKDSK.
• Scan for Malware: Malicious software can cause system instability.
• System Restore: If the problem started recently, restoring your system to an earlier point can undo problematic changes.

2. “Windows Update” Errors

Windows Update is essential for security and performance, but it can sometimes fail with cryptic error codes like 0x80070057 or 0x8024402F. These errors prevent your system from installing important updates.

Why Updates Fail

Common reasons include corrupted update files, network connectivity issues, insufficient disk space, or conflicts with third-party software.

How to Resolve Update Errors

Try these methods to fix Windows Update problems:

• Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter: This built-in tool automatically detects and fixes many update issues.
• Clear the Software Distribution Folder: Sometimes cached files get corrupted. Stop the Windows Update service, delete the contents of C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution, then restart the service.
• Reset Windows Update Components: Use Command Prompt to reset update-related services and files.
• Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure your device has a stable connection.
• Free Up Disk Space: Remove unnecessary files to make room for updates.

3. “DLL Not Found” or “Missing DLL” Errors

Dynamic Link Libraries (DLLs) are files that contain code and data used by multiple programs. When a program can’t find a required DLL, it throws an error and may fail to launch or function correctly.

Why DLL Errors Occur

DLL errors can result from accidental deletion, corrupted system files, or improper installation of software.

Fixing DLL Errors

Here’s how to address missing DLL issues:

• Reinstall the Program: This often restores the missing DLL files.
• Run System File Checker (SFC): Open Command Prompt as administrator and type sfc /scannow to repair corrupted system files.
• Download DLLs from Trusted Sources: Be cautious; downloading DLLs from random websites can be risky. It’s safer to get them from official software vendors.
• Update Windows: Sometimes updates include necessary DLL files.

4. “Application Not Responding” / Freezing Programs

When an application stops responding or freezes, it can be frustrating and may require force-closing the program, risking unsaved work.

Common Causes

Freezing can be caused by insufficient system resources, software bugs, conflicts with other programs, or corrupted files.

How to Fix Unresponsive Applications

Try these troubleshooting tips:

• Wait a Moment: Sometimes programs recover after processing a heavy task.
• Use Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, then end the unresponsive application.
• Update the Software: Developers often release patches to fix bugs.
• Check for System Overload: Close unnecessary programs to free up RAM and CPU.
• Reinstall the Application: If the problem persists, reinstalling may help.

5. “No Internet Access” or Network Connectivity Issues

Network problems are common and can stem from hardware, software, or configuration issues, leaving users unable to browse the web or access online services.

Diagnosing Network Issues

Check whether the problem affects all devices or just your PC. If only your computer is affected, the problem likely lies within Windows or your network adapter.

Fixing Network Connectivity Problems

Follow these steps to restore your internet connection:

• Restart Your Router and Modem: Power cycling can resolve many temporary issues.
• Run the Network Troubleshooter: Windows includes a tool that diagnoses and fixes common network problems.
• Reset TCP/IP Stack: Open Command Prompt as admin and run netsh int ip reset.
• Update Network Drivers: Outdated drivers can cause connectivity issues.
• Check Proxy and Firewall Settings: Incorrect configurations can block internet access.

6. “Disk Read Error” or “Operating System Not Found” on Boot

These errors appear during startup and indicate that Windows cannot access the hard drive or find the operating system, preventing the computer from booting.

Possible Causes

Common reasons include corrupted boot files, damaged hard drives, loose cables, or incorrect BIOS settings.

How to Fix Boot Errors

Try the following solutions:

• Check Physical Connections: Ensure the hard drive cables are securely connected.
• Use Startup Repair: Boot from a Windows installation media and select “Repair your computer” to run Startup Repair.
• Rebuild Boot Configuration Data (BCD): Use Command Prompt from recovery mode to run bootrec /fixmbr, bootrec /fixboot, and bootrec /rebuildbcd.
• Test the Hard Drive: Use tools like CHKDSK or third-party utilities to check for disk errors.
• Replace the Hard Drive: If the disk is physically failing, replacement may be necessary.

7. “Low Disk Space” Warnings

When your system drive runs low on space, Windows will alert you. This can slow down your computer and prevent updates or new software installations.

Why Low Disk Space Matters

Windows requires free space for temporary files, virtual memory, and system updates. Without it, performance degrades and errors may occur.

How to Free Up Disk Space

Consider these methods to reclaim storage:

• Use Disk Cleanup: This built-in tool removes temporary files, system cache, and recycle bin contents.
• Uninstall Unused Programs: Remove software you no longer need.
• Delete Large Files: Use tools like WinDirStat to identify and remove large files or folders.
• Move Files to External Storage: Transfer photos, videos, and documents to an external drive or cloud storage.
• Disable Hibernation: This can free up space equivalent to your RAM size.

8. “Windows Activation” Errors

Activation errors occur when Windows cannot verify your license, leading to limited functionality and persistent notifications.

Common Activation Issues

This can happen if your product key is invalid, already in use on another device, or if hardware changes confuse the activation system.

How to Fix Activation Problems

Try these steps:

• Check Your Product Key: Ensure it’s genuine and matches your Windows edition.
• Use the Activation Troubleshooter: Available in Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
• Reactivate After Hardware Changes: Link your Microsoft account to your license to simplify reactivation.
• Contact Microsoft Support: For persistent issues, official support can help resolve licensing problems.

9. “File Explorer Not Responding” or Crashing

File Explorer is central to navigating your files, and when it crashes or freezes, it disrupts daily tasks.

Why File Explorer Fails

Corrupted cache, problematic shell extensions, or buggy updates can cause instability.

How to Fix File Explorer Issues

Try these fixes:

• Restart File Explorer: Use Task Manager to end and restart the process.
• Clear File Explorer History: In Folder Options, click “Clear” under Privacy.
• Disable Third-Party Shell Extensions: Use tools like ShellExView to identify and disable problematic extensions.
• Run System File Checker: Repair corrupted system files.
• Check for Windows Updates: Install any pending updates to fix bugs.

10. “Printer Not Responding” or Printing Errors

Printer problems are common and can stem from driver issues, connectivity problems, or configuration errors.

Diagnosing Printer Issues

Check whether the printer is turned on, connected properly, and has paper and ink. Also, confirm that the correct printer is selected in Windows.

How to Fix Printer Errors

Try these solutions:

• Run the Printer Troubleshooter: Windows can automatically detect and fix many printing problems.
• Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers: Download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website.
• Clear Print Queue: Sometimes stuck print jobs block new ones. Clear the queue via the printer settings.
• Check Network or USB Connections: Ensure cables are secure or that the printer is connected to the network.

11. “Windows Explorer Keeps Restarting”

Sometimes, Windows Explorer repeatedly crashes and restarts, causing flickering taskbars and disrupted workflows.

Causes of Explorer Restarts

This behavior can be caused by corrupted system files, problematic updates, or third-party software conflicts.

How to Stop Windows Explorer from Restarting

Consider these steps:

• Update Windows: Install all available updates.
• Run System File Checker and DISM: Use sfc /scannow and DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth commands to repair system files.
• Check for Problematic Software: Uninstall recently installed programs that might interfere with Explorer.
• Create a New User Profile: Sometimes user profiles get corrupted, causing Explorer issues.

Conclusion

Windows errors can be intimidating, but with a systematic approach, most issues are fixable without professional help. Keeping your system updated, maintaining good security practices, and regularly backing up data are key to minimizing problems.

By understanding these 11 common Windows errors and their solutions, users can troubleshoot effectively, reduce downtime, and enjoy a smoother computing experience.