System errors, such as ‘Windows host process rundll32 has stopped running,’ may stop you from accessing several apps/programs and their data. It can even lead to the system malfunctioning or crashing. Multiple users have reported this error and are finding ways to resolve it. In this blog, we’ve collated all the information to help you understand the error, the causes behind it, and the best solutions for the same. Let’s start with the term Rundll32.
What is Rundll32?
Rundll32 is responsible for loading and running 32-bit dynamic-link libraries. It is also a software component of Microsoft Windows. Being a normal Windows user, you won’t directly come into the contact pf rundll32.exe file. There are no configurable settings for Rundll32. The rundll32 command should only be run from the Command prompt running as administrator.
What does Rundll32.exe Do?
Rundll32.exe is an executable file that allows applications to load their library code to run smoothly. No application can load the library code without this file. It acts as a gateway for all the apps to access libraries that allow them to perform multiple functions, including
- Showing Windows and its objects for GUI
- Storing data in system memory
- Playing sounds using the system’s audio device and driver
- Accessing accessories connected to the system and more
What does the Windows host process Rundll32 Error mean?
‘Windows host process (rundll32) has stopped working’ error occurs whenever you try to access any program, such as while viewing the file properties or editing accounts from Mail options under Program and features. Some users have also reported that they encountered this error while printing the documents.
The error usually occurs due to a missing or corrupted Rundll32.exe file, improperly configured settings, or conflicting software. Even malware on your system may also cause the problem by using the same file name and disguising itself as Rundll32.
How do I Fix the Rundll32 Error?
Certainly, Windows host process rundll32 is a problematic error that may occur without any warning. However, some fixes we’ve discussed here can help you remove this error. You can try them out and see which works best for you. Let’s start!
#1 Disable Thumbnails in Folder Option Settings
If you get to see the error on accessing File properties, you can change the folder settings and disable thumbnails in the folder option/file explorer settings. Follow the given steps:
- Press Windows + S to access Windows Search and open the Control Panel from there.
- There, click the Folder option or File Explorer Options.
- On the File Explorer Options window, go to the View tab and then select Always show icons, never thumbnails > Apply > OK.
- Once done, reboot your system and re-try to access File properties to see if the error persists.
#2 Run File and Folder Troubleshooter
If you keep getting the Rundll error while accessing files and folders despite disabling thumbnail options, you can run File and Folder Troubleshooter with the following steps:
- Download File and Folder Troubleshooter from Microsoft’s official site.
- Open the file and select Advanced on the troubleshooting window.
- ON selecting Advanced, it will show Apply repairs automatically. Click Next to proceed.
- On the next prompt, either select the relevant option for you or select all and click Next.
- The troubleshooting utility will start resolving the problem.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process. Apply the fixes it suggests and close the window. Finally, restart the system to see if the rundll32 not responding is solved.
#3 Perform Clean Boot
If you’re having issues with some third-party app/programs or service, you can try to boot your system in clean boot. The Clean Boot environment is where Windows starts with a minimal set of drivers, and startup apps/programs/software so you can pinpoint which background program or service is indeed causing issues. To perform a clean boot, you can follow the given steps:
- Go to Windows Search by pressing Windows + S and then open System Configurations from there.
- Next, move to the Services tab and then click Hide all Microsoft services > Apply > OK.
- Now, go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Select the third-party startup services/programs and click Disable.
- Now, close Task Manager and click OK on the Startup tab to complete the process.
- Now, reboot your system and see if the error occurs. You can also uninstall the software/service from your system if you seldom use it.
#4 Run SFC Scan
Corrupted, missing, or damaged system files, such as Rundll32.exe can cause this error. You can take the help of the System File Checker utility. It is a Windows built-in troubleshooting utility to remove the corrupted or damaged versions of system files and replace them with the correct ones, thus solving the issue. To do so, follow the below steps:
- Open and run Command Prompt as administrator from Windows Search.
- In the elevated cmd Window, type sfc/scannow and hit Enter.
- The process will take a few minutes to complete. Wait until it’s done. Once completed, see if there are any further instructions to follow.
Finally, reboot the system and check if the problem has been resolved.
#5 Turn off Data Execution Prevention (DEP)
If you have DEP (Data Execution Prevention) running in the background, you may encounter the error. DEP is Windows XP SP 2 and Vista version’s feature that stops programs from running if it finds there could be an issue with the program. Turn off the DEP with the following steps:
- In the start menu, type CMD and press Enter.
- Run Command Prompt as administrator and type bcdedit.exe /set {current} nx AlwaysOff.
- As suggested in the window, reboot the system, and see if the error has gone.
- Next, once you’re done checking the issue status, turn DEP on again with the bcdedit.exe /set {current} nx AlwaysOn command.
- Close the window once you’re done.
#6 Update Drivers to the Latest Versions
If you’ve outdated or corrupted graphic drivers installed on your system, you may encounter this error. Try updating the drivers and installing the latest compatible ones to resolve the issue.
- Go to Device Manager from Start by pressing Windows + X.
- Expand the Display adapters category, right-click on the driver, and select Update driver from the given options.
- Next, click Search automatically for drivers.
- Windows will start looking for the latest driver software available. Once it appears, download it and restart your system to check if the error is gone now.
- If it doesn’t show you any result, download pending updates from Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Install now.
#7 Roll Back the Drivers
If you’ve started facing the problem after updating the drivers, try rolling them back to their older state. Follow the given steps:
- Open Device Manager and go to Display adapters.
- Expand this category, right-click on the driver, and click Properties.
- Next, move to the Driver tab and click Roll Back Driver.
- Provide the reason to roll back the driver version and click Yes to proceed.
- Once done, close the tab and reboot your system to check if the error is solved.
#8 Scan PC for Malware
A malware infection can also cause app crashes, system malfunction, and system errors like blue screen or black screen of death, system freezing, and more. Rundll32 not responding is also one such error. Hence, we’d suggest you scan your system for malware. You can run the Windows Defender Antimalware program that detects viruses and malware on your system. If enabled, it tracks the malicious sites and prevents them from accessing your system’s vulnerabilities and device data in real-time unless a non-Microsoft antivirus is active. Follow the given steps:
- Open Settings by pressing Windows + I and then follow Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus and threat protection.
- On the next prompt, click Scan options under Quick Scan.
- Afterward, you’ll see four options, out of which, select Microsoft Defender Offline scan > Scan now.
Let the scan complete and then see if there are any further instructions to follow. Once the process is finished, restart the system and try opening programs/apps to check if the problem is resolved.
All the methods mentioned here have proven records of helping multiple Windows users solve the error. You can follow them in order or try the one you find most suiting your situation. And, a rare thing possible, if the error doesn’t get solved, you can reset Windows to restore your system to its functioning state. However, make sure your system data is backed up before resetting Windows.
FAQ
1. Why is Windows host process rundll32 not responding when adding a printer?
It may occur due to a corrupted, missing, or outdated device driver. Hence, try updating or reinstalling the compatible device driver and then check if the error is gone.
2. Is it safe to delete Rundll32?
Rundll32 is not a culprit when you encounter a DLL error, hence you shouldn’t delete or uninstall it from your system. It is indeed a critical Windows system component and disabling or deleting it will make your system run into problems such as boot-up errors, system malfunctioning, etc.
3. What is the difference between svchost and rundll32?
Rundll32 and Svchost are important Windows components. A few users mistakenly assume them a virus or malware file exists on their system. However, Rundll32 is a legitimate Windows DLL file whereas Svchost is a service that runs in the background of your OS.
4. How do I recover data after resetting Windows?
If you have factory reset your Windows, you can recover your data in two ways – (i) using your backup and (ii) Windows data recovery software. If the backup is available, be it a cloud or a local one on your hard drive, you just need to access it on your system and copy-paste it. Else, you can try data recovery software, such as Stellar Data Recovery for Windows to get back your files, folders, and more in a few minutes.
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Table of contents
- What is Rundll32?
- Method 1: Changing the Settings for the Folder Options
- Method 2: Restoring your Drivers to the Previous Versions
- Method 3: Updating your Graphics Card Driver
- Method 4: Checking for Viruses and Malware
It can be frustrating when you are welcomed by an error every time your operating system boots. This is probably how users felt when they encountered this error: Windows host process (Rundll32) has stopped working.
If you encounter this issue, do not worry because there are ways to get rid of it. In this article, we are going to teach you how to fix the ‘Rundll32 has stopped’ error on Windows 10. However, before we do that, let us take a closer look at the problem to understand why it occurs.
What is Rundll32?
A component of Windows, Rundll32 is responsible for 32-bit Dynamic Link Library (DLL7) files. It is directly involved in ensuring that programs in your computer are functioning correctly. However, when the Rundll32 is missing or it gets corrupted, it will stop working properly. Consequently, you will see the ‘Windows host process (Rundll32) has stopped working’ error. If you encounter this problem, make sure you try one of our solutions below.
Method 1: Changing the Settings for the Folder Options
You will be able to manage the settings of your folders and files via the Folder Options. To fix the ‘Windows Host Process (Rundll32) has stopped working’ error, we recommend tweaking some items in the Folder Options. Here are the steps:
- Click the Search icon on your taskbar.
- Type “control panel” (no quotes), then press Enter.
- Once Control Panel is up, click the drop-down list beside View By, then select Small Icons or Large Icons.
- Select Folder Options or File Explorer Options.
- A new window will pop up. Go to the View tab, then select the box beside the ‘Always show icons, never thumbnails’ option.
- Save the changes by clicking Apply and OK.
Restart your PC, then check if the issue has been resolved.
Method 2: Restoring your Drivers to the Previous Versions
One of the ways to fix the ‘Windows Host Process (Rundll32) has stopped working’ error is to roll back your drivers to their previous versions. After all, many users reported that the problem occurred after they had updated their sound drivers. So, we recommend restoring your drivers to their previous versions. On the other hand, some users mentioned that the error happened after they installed some programs.
If you recently installed programs, try removing them:
- Open the Run dialog box by pressing Windows Key+R on your keyboard.
- Now, type “appwiz.cpl” (no quotes), then click OK.
- Look for the program you recently added and right-click it.
- Select Uninstall from the options.
- Restart your PC.
If you recently updated your device drivers, follow the steps below:
- Press Windows Key+R on your keyboard to bring up the Run dialog box.
- Type “devmgmt.msc” (no quotes), then click OK.
- Look for the device you recently updated, then double-click it.
- Go to the Driver tab, then click the Roll Back Driver button.
- Complete the process by following the on-screen instructions.
Method 3: Updating your Graphics Card Driver
It is possible that your graphics card driver is missing or outdated, causing the ‘Windows host process (Rundll32) has stopped working’ error to appear. In this case, we recommend updating your drivers. You can do this manually and go to the manufacturer’s website to look for the right drivers. However, this option can be time-consuming, complicated, and even risky. If you install the wrong drivers, you might end up causing system instability issues on your PC.
As such, we suggest that you opt for a more reliable and convenient option— Auslogics Driver Updater. Once you’ve activated this tool, it will automatically identify your system and look for problematic drivers. With one click of a button, you will be able to update all your drivers to their latest, manufacturer-recommended versions. So, you would not need to worry about installing the wrong drivers or spending so much time looking for the right versions.
Method 4: Checking for Viruses and Malware
Some computer viruses can keep the system from detecting the host process, prompting the ‘Windows host process (Rundll32) has stopped working’ error to show up. So, we recommend performing a deep scan of your entire Windows system. It may take a while for the process to complete, but every second you spend doing it will be worthwhile. You can use Windows Defender for this job, but it is always best to opt for a more comprehensive and powerful tool like Auslogics Anti-Malware. After all, this program can detect threats and viruses that your main security software may miss.
Tell us how you fixed the error!
Start the discussion in the comments section now!
Many people have reported this error: Windows host process (Rundll32) has stopped working. And this error occurs every time the system starts. It’s annoying, but don’t worry. We’ll help you fix your error and get your computer back on track.
Why does the error happen?
Rundll32 is a Windows component that is responsible for 32-bit Dynamic Link Library (DLL) files. This program should be working properly in your computer to maintain other programs function correctly. So if the Rundll32 is missing or corrupted, it stops working and you’ll have the “Windows host process (Rundll32) has stopped working” error.
Try these solutions:
- Change Folder Options settings
- Restore to the previous state
- Update the graphics card driver
- Check for virus and malware
Note: the screenshots below come from Windows 10, and the fixes apply to Windows 8 and Windows 7.
Solution 1: Change Folder Options settings
With Folder Options (or File Explorer Options) in your computer, you can manage the settings for your files and folders, for example, you can change how your files and folders display in File Explorer. This is an effective way to resolve your problem.
To do so:
- Open Control Panel on your computer, and make sure to view Control Panel item by small icons or large icons.
- Click Folder Options. If you can find Folder Options, click File Explorer Options.
- In the new popup pane, click the View tab, and check the box next to Always show icons, never thumbnails.
- Click Apply and OK to save it.
Restart your computer and see if it fixes the error.
If the problem still persists, don’t worry. There are other solutions to try.
Solution 2: Restore to the previous state
It’s likely that you’ve updated your driver, or you’ve installed some programs, and that may cause “Windows host process (Rundll32) has stopped working”. Many people reported that installing software like QuickSet, Realtek audio driver, or Sound Blaster will result in this issue. So you should roll back to the previous state to fix the problem.
If you’ve installed programs, try uninstalling:
- On your keyboard, press the Windows logo key
and R at the same time to invoke the Run box.
- Type appwiz.cpl and click OK.
- In the program list, select the program that you recently installed, and uninstall it from your computer.
- Restart your computer.
If you’ve updated device drivers, try restoring:
- On your keyboard, press the Windows logo key and R at the same time to invoke the Run box.
- Type devmgmt.msc and click OK.
- Double click on the device that you just updated its driver.
- Click the Driver tab, and click Roll Back Driver.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the process.
Restart your computer and see if it works.
Solution 3: Update the graphics card driver
A missing or outdated graphics card driver can also result in the “Windows host process (Rundll32) has stopped working” error. So you can update the driver for your computer.
There are two ways to update the graphics driver: manually and automatically.
Manually update driver – You can go to the manufacturer’s website for your video card, find the latest correct driver for it, then download and install into your computer. Be sure to download the one that is compatible with Windows OS in your computer.
Automatically update driver – If you don’t have time or patience, you can do it automatically with Driver Easy.
Driver Easy will automatically recognize your system and find the correct drivers for it. You don’t need to know exactly what system your computer is running, you don’t need to risk downloading and installing the wrong driver, and you don’t need to worry about making a mistake when installing.
You can update your drivers automatically with either the FREE or the Pro version of Driver Easy. But with the Pro version it takes just 2 clicks (and you get full support and a 30-day money back guarantee):
- Download and install Driver Easy.
- Run Driver Easy and click Scan Now. Driver Easy will then scan your computer and detect any problem drivers.
- Click the Update button next to the flagged graphics card to automatically download the correct version of their driver (you can do this with the FREE version), then install it in your computer.
Or click Update All to automatically download and install the correct version of all the drivers that are missing or out of date on your system (this requires the Pro version – you’ll be prompted to upgrade when you click Update All).
- Restart your computer to take effect.
Check if the error has been removed.
Solution 4: Check for virus and malware
The “Windows host process (Rundll32) has stopped working” error message may appear if a virus on your computer is preventing the host process from being detected. The virus may even be generating the error itself.
So run a virus scan across your entire Windows system. Yes, it will take some time to complete, but it’s worth it. Unfortunately, Windows Defender may not detect it, so it’s worth trying another antivirus application such as Avira and Panda.
If any malware has been detected, follow the instructions provided by the antivirus program to fix it.
Then restart your computer and try to launch your program again to see if it works.
So there you have it – four easy and effective methods to fix “Windows host process (Rundll32) has stopped working” error in your Windows computer.
Free free to leave a comment and let us know which method helps. If you have any questions, feel free to list it out and we’ll see what more we can do.
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Encountering errors on your computer can be frustrating, especially when they disrupt your daily tasks. One of the common issues that Windows users face is the “Windows Host Process RunDLL32 has stopped working” error. This error appears suddenly and can hinder smooth operation by affecting various programs and processes. In this article, we will explore the causes behind this error, how it manifests, and a variety of methods to troubleshoot and fix the problem effectively.
Understanding the Windows Host Process RunDLL32
The Windows Host Process RunDLL32 (often referred to as RunDLL32.exe) is a legitimate Windows process that facilitates the execution of dynamic link library (DLL) files. DLL files contain code and data that multiple programs can use simultaneously, allowing for efficient memory use and streamlined program execution. RunDLL32.exe acts as an intermediary, enabling Windows to run these files when required.
While this process is crucial for the functioning of many applications and system operations, it is vulnerable to issues due to system conflicts, potentially corrupt files, or malware. When RunDLL32 encounters a problem, it can result in system notifications indicating that the process has stopped working, disrupting your experience.
Causes of the Error
Understanding the root cause of the «Windows Host Process RunDLL32 has stopped working» error is essential for effective resolution. Here are some common reasons why this error might manifest:
-
Corrupted DLL Files: If the DLL files that RunDLL32 relies on become corrupt, it may lead to crashes.
-
Malware Infection: Some malware disguises itself as legitimate processes. If your system is infected, it could trigger this error, posing security risks.
-
Faulty Software Installation: Incomplete or improper installations of software can result in DLL issues.
-
Driver Conflicts: Conflicts between hardware drivers and the operating system can also cause failures in the RunDLL32 process.
-
Operating System Updates: Sometimes, updates can lead to compatibility issues that affect the performance of DLL files.
-
Registry Issues: Corrupt or incorrect registry entries can cause instability in system processes.
-
Hardware Problems: Failing hardware components can lead to abrupt process terminations.
Recognizing the Problem
When facing this error, you may observe several symptoms on your Windows machine:
- Notifications pop up saying “Windows Host Process (RunDLL32) has stopped working.”
- Applications that rely on DLL files may crash unexpectedly.
- Performance issues, such as lags or system freezes.
- Inability to access certain functions within Windows.
If you note these symptoms, you may be dealing with the RunDLL32 issue.
How to Fix the Error
Now that you understand what the RunDLL32 process is and the potential causes behind its malfunction, let’s delve into effective troubleshooting methods you can employ to fix the «RunDLL32 has stopped working» error.
1. Restart Your Computer
Before engaging in complex troubleshooting, a simple restart can oftentimes resolve temporary glitches. Rebooting your computer allows the system to reset processes, potentially fixing any minor issues with RunDLL32 and other applications.
2. Perform a Malware Scan
Given that the error could be a symptom of malware infection, it’s wise to run a complete antivirus scan. Follow these steps:
- Update your antivirus software to the latest version.
- Run a full system scan and allow the antivirus software to quarantine and remove any malicious items detected.
- If you do not have antivirus software, consider using Windows Defender or a reliable third-party antivirus tool.
3. Update Windows
To ensure that your operating system is functioning optimally, keep it updated. Microsoft regularly releases updates to patch bugs and vulnerabilities. Follow these steps:
- Open Settings (Windows + I).
- Click on Update & Security.
- Select Windows Update and click on Check for updates.
- Apply any pending updates and restart your computer if necessary.
4. Update Device Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers can create conflicts with the RunDLL32 process. Here’s how to update your device drivers:
- Right-click on the Start menu and select Device Manager.
- Expand the different categories and right-click on each device, then choose Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow any prompts and restart your computer upon completion.
5. Run System File Checker (SFC)
The System File Checker is a built-in Windows utility that scans for corrupted system files and attempts to restore them. Here’s how to run it:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator (search for «cmd,» then right-click and choose Run as administrator).
- Type the command
sfc /scannowand press Enter. - Wait for the process to complete, which may take several minutes.
- Once done, restart your computer and check if the error persists.
6. Use the DISM Tool
If the SFC scan did not resolve the issue, you can use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool to repair the Windows image. Here’s how to use DISM:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth- After executing these commands, restart your computer and see if the error is fixed.
7. Clean Boot Your Computer
A clean boot helps you start Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, allowing you to determine whether background programs are causing the problem. Here’s how to perform a clean boot:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - In the System Configuration window, navigate to the Services tab.
- Check the box that says Hide all Microsoft services, then click on Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and click on Open Task Manager.
- Disable all the startup items.
- Close Task Manager and return to the System Configuration window. Click OK and restart your computer.
8. Restore Default Windows Registry Settings
Corrupted or incorrect registry settings can impact functionality and lead to errors. A careful registry cleanup might be required:
-
Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. -
Navigate to the following registry key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorer -
Look for any unusual or unfamiliar entries and take note.
-
Before making changes in the registry, create a backup by right-clicking on the CurrentVersion key and selecting Export.
-
After backing up, delete any unnecessary keys that you suspect to be causing conflicts.
Note: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause serious issues. Proceed with caution and consider seeking professional help if you are unsure.
9. Uninstall Faulty Software
If you started encountering the error after installing new software, it might be contributing to the problem. Uninstall any suspicious or unnecessary software by:
- Going to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
- Find the software in question, click on it, and select Uninstall.
10. Check for Hardware Issues
Sometimes, hardware problems like a failing hard drive or RAM can cause instability in processes like RunDLL32. You can check for hardware issues by:
- Running Windows’ built-in hardware diagnostic tools.
- Running a hard drive test through software such as CrystalDiskInfo.
- If you suspect RAM issues, use the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool (search for it in the Start menu and follow the prompts).
11. Perform a System Restore
If the error began occurring recently, you might be able to restore your PC to a prior working state using System Restore:
- Type
Create a restore pointin the search box and press Enter. - In the System Properties window, click on System Restore and follow the prompts to revert your system to a previous restore point where everything was functioning correctly.
12. Reset Windows
If all else fails and the error persists, consider resetting Windows. This will restore your system to its original settings, which may resolve the issue:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
- Under Reset this PC, click Get started and choose whether to keep your files or remove everything. Follow the prompts to reset Windows.
Conclusion
The “Windows Host Process RunDLL32 has stopped working” error can disrupt your daily use of Windows but is often manageable with the right troubleshooting techniques. From reinstalling drivers to scanning for malware, there are multiple ways to attempt fixing the issue yourself. Always consider backing up important data before making substantial changes to your system, such as registry edits or system resets.
If after exhausting these methods the problem persisting, contacting a professional technician may be your best option to ensure more in-depth diagnostics and fixes. Whether it’s a minor conflict or a significant corruption issue, resolution is within reach with the right approach and tools.
Random error codes which don’t usually tell much about what or who caused are the worst kind because you never know which one of your actions caused the error to occur and what action to undertake in order to prevent the error from happening.
The “Windows Host process (Rundll32) has stopped working” error is quite a generic one but are a couple of well-known causes for this problem and some of them way even sound weird at the first glance. Follow the rest of the article in order to find out just how to solve this problem.
Solution 1: Weird Control Panel Tweak
This first solution to the problem is probably the weirdest one and it appears that the whole error is simply a bug related to how icons and thumbnails are displayed. There are plenty of people on the Internet who claim that they have tried every possible solution they were able to find online but nothing helped but this little tweak. This method is useful if you receive the error code when accessing folders which contain pictures or videos.
- Open Control Panel by searching for it in the Start menu.
- Switch the View by option in Control Panel to Large Icons and locate the File Explorer Options section.
- Click on it and navigate to the View tab of the window which opens. The first option under the Files and Folders section under Advanced settings should be “Always show icons, never thumbnails”. Check it if it’s unchecked and Apply the changes.
- Restart your PC and check to see if the error appears again.
Solution 2: Remove Certain Icons From the System Tray
Some users claim that it took them several months of research and trying various methods before they implemented this simple fix which solved the problem instantly. This method is highly successful if new icons have been added recently to the system tray. It appears that the support for these icons is missing and it causes this error to appear.
- Take a look at the bottom right part of your screen, right on the system tray where the clock is usually located.
- Hover with your mouse over the icons which are right there or which appear after you click the error which is also located at the system tray.
- Try to locate the icon which displays the following message: “Show or remove blocked startup programs”.
- A pop-up window should appear asking for your permission to continue so make sure you grant it by clicking yes or continue.
- Look through each line to see if you recognize any items you may have recently added to your system programs or hardware. Some users claim that the cause for their issue was the NVIDIA icon.
- There is a check mark next to that item so make sure you remove it by each one that you recently added.
- Hit the apply button and then when it ask you to restart your system do so. Check to see if the error stops popping out from now on.
Solution 3: Reinstall Certain Programs Which Are Known to Cause this Problem
Some third-party programs and applications are well-known to cause this error after a while has passed from their installation and users have reported that reinstalling this programs has helped them get rid of the annoying error. Some of the programs include:
Nero tools and applications
QuickSet
Realtek Audio Driver
Sound Blaster
Adobe Speed Launcher
Adobe ARM
Follow the instructions below in order to uninstall and reinstall this tools properly:
- First of all, make sure you are logged in with an administrator account as you won’t be able to delete programs using any other account.
- Backup the data you want to save because deleting this programs will remove it.
- Click on the Start menu and open Control Panel by searching for it. Alternatively, you can click on the gear icon in order to open settings if you are using Windows 10.
- In Control Panel, select to View as: Category at the top right corner and click on Uninstall a Program under the Programs section.
- If you are using the Settings app, clicking on Apps should immediately open a list of all installed programs on your PC.
- Locate the tool you wish to uninstall in Control Panel or Settings and click on Uninstall.
- Its uninstall wizard should open with two options: Repair and Remove. Select Remove and click Next in order to uninstall the program.
- A message will pop up asking “Do you want to completely remove InsertNameHere for Windows?” Choose Yes.
- Click Finish when the uninstalled completes the process and restart your computer to see whether errors will still appear.
Solution 4: Update the Graphics Card Driver
Some users went online and claimed that a file called “nvd3dum.dll” caused the crash after they investigated the log files located on their computers. This file is closely related to the NVIDIA graphics card driver and you should definitely consider this solution if you own an NVIDIA graphics card.
Follow the set of steps presented below.
- Click Start and type Run. Select Run. A Run dialog box will appear.
- Type “devmgmt.msc” in the run dialog box and click the OK button. This is to open Device Manager Window.
- Locate your graphics card driver by checking under the Display adapters section. Click on the arrow left to this section in order to view the list of Display adapter drivers.
- Right-click on the adapter of your graphics card and select the Update driver option from the context menu. If you are using an integrated graphics card, there will probably only be one item on the list. If you are using an external graphics card, you can only update this one.
- Click Search automatically for updated driver software. Then Windows will search and install the new driver for you.
- Restart your PC for the change to take effect.
Note: You can also visit the site of the manufacturer which made your graphics card and download the latest driver from their site. They usually provide assistance when it comes to choosing the correct driver for your system.
Also, if there is no new versions of your graphics card driver, you can always choose to roll it back by choosing the respective option from the menu and following the instructions on-screen.
Kevin Arrows
Kevin Arrows is a highly experienced and knowledgeable technology specialist with over a decade of industry experience. He holds a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification and has a deep passion for staying up-to-date on the latest tech developments. Kevin has written extensively on a wide range of tech-related topics, showcasing his expertise and knowledge in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. His contributions to the tech field have been widely recognized and respected by his peers, and he is highly regarded for his ability to explain complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner.