Quick Fixes For Common Runtime Errors

Runtime errors occur when a glitch occurs in one or more processes that need to be performed sequentially to complete a particular task. As the name points out, runtime errors occur at runtime and are accompanied with an error message box that lists the error code and its corresponding definition. Typically, runtime errors are preceded by periods of slow computer response and are followed by a software crash or system reboot.

In this article, we take a look at the cause and quick fixes for common runtime errors, such as runtime error 429.

Common Causes of runtime errors

• Software Issues – Runtime error occurs when the application code is corrupt or one or more software files are missing.
• Malware Infection – Malicious programs, such as viruses, trojans, worms, and other variants tamper system settings and cause runtime errors.
• Registry Issues – Runtime errors can also occur due to missing, invalid, or malicious registry entries.
• Corrupt or Damaged Hard Disk – Damaged or corrupt hard disk sectors are another common cause of runtime errors.
• Memory Issues – Shortage of memory space also causes runtime errors.

Runtime errors occurring due to software issues, malware infection, and/or registry issues and are easy to resolve and can be done on your own without the help of an expert. To fix runtime errors occurring due to hardware-related issues, you may need to replace the corrupt hardware – something which may require a computer technician’s assistance.

In this article, we concentrate on how to troubleshoot common runtime errors that occur because of software-related issues, malware infection, and registry issues.

Step #1 – Uninstall and reinstall the software

If you are receiving a runtime error only when you try to launch a particular application, then chances are that one or more software files are either corrupt or missing. To fix the matter, simply uninstall and reinstall the application.

In certain cases, a particular feature of an application when enabled may cause a runtime error. To understand this better, an example is provided.

Runtime error 217 is a common occurrence on Windows PCs that use Norton Antivirus and Internet Explorer 7 (IE7). The error occurs when the Norton Confidential helper add-on feature is enabled in the IE7 settings. To resolve the issue, disable the Norton Confidential helper add-on from the IE7 Tools menu.

Step #2 – Run a malware scan

Many runtime errors are a direct consequence of malware infection. For instance, runtime error 216 is reported on Windows 98 and Windows ME PCs that are infected with the Backdoor SubSeven Trojan.

To fix runtime errors that are occur due to malware infection, run a thorough malware scan on your PC. Reboot Windows in Safe Mode and run a malware scan using your protective software to remove any threats residing on your computer.

In the future, to prevent malware re-infection, regularly update your protective software with the latest malware definitions and schedule regular malware scans on your system. Furthermore, do not open email attachments without scanning them first and refrain from downloading software and files from dubious websites.

Step #3 – Clean your registry