Almost all Windows operating system users come across system errors at one time or another. A flickering or blank screen, frozen cursor, blue screen, or an unexpected system restart are all indications of a system error. Most of these errors display an error message that you can use to troubleshoot and fix the problem. In this article, we will learn about the code 10 error and then have a look at common causes of system errors and methods to prevent them.
How to Fix a Code 10 Error
A Code 10 error usually occurs due to:
- Missing device driver
- Malfunctioning device driver
- Incomplete device driver files
If the device due to which the error has occurred contains the value FailReasonString in its hardware key, then this string is displayed as an error message. Otherwise, the device displays the following error message:
This device is either not present, not working properly, or does not have all the drivers installed. (Code 10)
Most of the time, you can resolve this error by updating the device driver for the faulty device. To update the driver, select the System option from the Control Panel. In the System Properties dialog box, select the Hardware tab, and then select the Device Manager button. Scroll through the Device Manager window and identify the faulty hardware device. Right-click on this device and then select the Update Driver command. Next, follow the screen instructions to update the driver of the selected device.
Causes of System Errors
System Errors Usually Occur due to:
- Device driver conflicts
- Corrupt or damaged software files
- Malfunctioning hardware
- Corrupt or damaged system registry
- Virus or spyware infection
Steps to Prevent System Errors
With a little vigilance and extra precaution you can easily prevent most system errors. Some of the tasks that you can perform to prevent system errors are listed below:
- Keep your operating system, device drivers, and software applications updated with the latest hot fixes, security releases, and updates.
- Run regular antivirus and anti spyware scans to keep your PC free from harmful and disastrous malware. Always keep these software updated with the latest security releases so that your system is always protected against malware infections.
- Avoid opening attachments of unsolicited emails and visiting dubious websites.
- Do not download freeware and shareware from websites whose authenticity you aren’t sure of.
- Be very careful while downloading ActiveX controls from various websites. ActiveX controls provide their master with complete control over your system and therefore, a malicious ActiveX control can cause severe damage to your system and may also enable a hacker to steal your personal information.
- Last but not least, perform regular registry maintenance to ensure that your registry is free from errors. 90% of all system errors are connected to the system registry in one way or another. You can easily perform registry maintenance with the help of a registry cleaner such as RegServe. This software will provide you with a simple-to-use graphical interface and enable you to scan and clean registry errors in just a few mouse clicks.
System errors are common on Windows systems and can occur due to a number of reasons, including problems with device drivers, hardware, software applications, and the system registry. Code 10 is one such system error that occurs due to problems with a device driver. You can fix this error by updating the faulty device driver. Preventive maintenance with the help of antivirus software, registry cleaners, and a certain amount of vigilance while working on the Internet can help you keep your PC free from system errors.