subject: Runtime Errors: A Troubleshooting Guide [print this page] Author: Carl Haugen Author: Carl Haugen
Knowing what is wrong with your computer is the first step to fixing it. When you get an error, you sometimes have enough information to repair it right away. When you don't, it can be frustrating to troubleshoot. To help you out, here are some steps to fixing runtime errors, the errors you get while opening or running a particular program.
Error Codes Can Tell You A Lot
The first thing to look for is an error code that might tell you what the problem is. Sometimes you will get a brief comment like "Out of memory." This will help you troubleshoot. If you get one of those errors, a search on the code number and statement should help you find a solution.
Close Other Programs
If there isn't a clear error message, the runtime error may be related to another program you have open. Check to see if stopping any other programs that are running will help. You can close those programs normally or use the Task Manager to end the processes that control the programs. Only use the Task Manager to end a program if you cannot stop it by closing it. Abruptly stopping processes can lead to registry errors, which can lead to new runtime errors.
Reboot Your Computer
You should also restart your computer and run only the program having the problem. Sometimes a simple reboot will fix whatever issue is wrong. If you call anyone for tech support, the first question they will ask you is if you have restarted your computer.
Reinstall Your Software
The next step to try is reinstalling the program itself. There is a possibility you haven't got all the right updates, or an update caused the problem in the first place. By reinstalling, you can start from a fresh situation. Run the program after reinstalling and if your problem is solved, then apply updates or plug-ins one by one to see if one of them is causing the issue. If the problem is in the updates or plug-ins, you will need to contact the maker of the software causing the issue to look for a fix.
Clean Your Registry
If you haven't solved the problem yet, you may have a registry error. At this point you should clean the registry. You will need to get a good registry cleaner, as the registry is too large and complex to clean manually. Be careful to make sure the cleaner you get is a legitimate product. Check out the company that makes it, and look for reviews. The very best registry cleaners will hunt down other problems on your computer to fix them.
A Problem Beyond Your Knowledge
If all else has failed, you need to consider the possibility that your system has a virus or spyware that is interfering with your programs. At this point, you should run scans with your security software to check. If you do not have an antivirus or antispyware program installed, you should find them and run scans. If nothing seems to work, you may need to find a professional to fix the problem for you.About the Author:
Run a free RegZooka scan now at http://www.regzooka.com and be on your way to getting rid of registry errors for good!
