Fix Error Messages Using Free Tools And Advice
This article takes a look at some different ways to research and fix error messages that you experience. As with any approach you should back up your data and registry files before starting into any PC maintenance work.
It may not seem like it, but it is actually a positive sign to see an error code in a pop-up message – it gives you something to research. The best starting point for researching any errors is to search the product support site for the product throwing the error (rather than doing a full search of the web, which returns less-focused results).
Check the maker’s website for updates, known issues or solutions stating how to fix error codes you see. If you are in luck then others have already seen the fault and a fix exists.
Next search independent user forums online relating to the product. They may contain solutions to your error but you should be careful of trying out changes that have not been widely tested.
For broader solutions to fixing computers when an error code relates to system files you should consider running a full scan for viruses, spyware and malware. Many modern anti-virus programs (e.g. the free version of AVG) can fix changes to system programs and files.
If the error code relate to problems with the Windows registry then you should wary of manually editing this file. Many of its configuration keys are shared amongst programs so one change can affect multiple products. Use a registry cleaner (if you have one) to repair corruption to this system file or use Windows own System Restore tool (accessories / system tools) to roll back the file to any earlier saved version.
These tips should help you troubleshoot and fix error codes you see. The key is to only make changes to your PC that you are certain others have tried and tested before you.
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