Errors in technology can be frustrating and challenging to fix. There is no exception regarding the Windows 11 error reference by pointer.
Your Windows computer may experience this frequent and unavoidably annoying issue, which prevents your device from operating correctly.
But do not be worried; you can take some simple steps to quickly fix this problem and get your computer back up and running if it occurs.
What is Windows error reference by pointer?
This Windows operating system error typically happens when a user tries an action or operation that their computer cannot handle because of faulty code in the software’s programming known as a Pointer, which references memory locations other than what it should.
There are various reasons why this happens, but the more common ones are as follows:
- Outdated/faulty drivers – PCs running on outdated or faulty drivers are prone to encounter this error.
- Corrupt system files – Certain corrupt files on a computer system affect the PC’s normal functioning, leading to this error.
- Third-party software/applications – Many users experience this error due to third-party software and applications.
- Damaged/malfunctioning RAM stick – Having faulty RAM sticks can also lead to this problem.
Ok, we now know the leading causes of the Windows error reference pointer error; let’s take a look at some of the methods to resolve this issue.
How do you fix a reference by a pointer error?
1. Update Windows drivers
- Press the Windows + I keys to open the Settings app.
- On the bottom left corner of your screen, select Windows Update and then click Advanced options on the right.
- The next step is to select Optional updates under the Additional options section.
- If there are updates available, select them and press Download & install.
- Reboot your computer and check if the problem has been fixed.
2. Use the DISM and CHKDSK command
2.1 To run the DISM command
- Right-click on the start menu and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
- In the pop-up menu, click Yes.
- Next, click the downward arrow from the terminal window and choose Command Prompt.
- Input the following command and hit Enter.
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
- Once the program starts running, wait for some minutes and allow the process to be completed.
- Restart your computer and verify if the problem has been solved
2.2 To run the CHKDSK command
- Right-click on the start menu and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
- In the pop-up menu, click Yes.
- Next, click the downward arrow from the terminal window and choose Command Prompt.
- Input the following command and hit Enter.
chkdsk C: /r
- Once the program starts running, give it minutes to complete the process.
- Restart your computer once the program is complete, and verify if the problem has been solved.
3. Disable third-party anti-virus
- Click on the arrow at the bottom right corner of your screen and right-click on it.
- In the Open Avast user interface, Select Avast shields control to display more options, then finally choose from the available options how long you want your anti-virus to be disabled.
- Click the OK, STOP option to finalize this step and check to see if the error persists.
4. Run the system file checker
- In the search box, write cmd and choose Run as administrator.
- Write the following command and hit Enter.
sfc /scannow
- Once the program finishes running, check to see if the problem has been fixed.
5. Remove Malfunctioning software
- Click Windows + R keys to open the run command, type msConfig, and press OK.
- In the system configuration tab, under Selective startup, uncheck the Load startup items option.
- Go to the Services tab, select Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
- Next, select Startup and click Open Task Manager.
- Right-click on an object and select Disable.
- Return to the System Configuration window and choose OK and Apply.
- Finally, reboot your PC and check if this problem has been resolved.
In conclusion, Windows 11 Error Reference by Pointer is a complicated problem that can’t be fixed in a single step.
However, armed with information about common solutions such as those discussed above, users should have an easier time fixing this issue.
Furthermore, those who cannot locate the source of their troubleshooting problems on their own may want to consider contacting knowledgeable technology support professionals for assistance in finding potential fixes for handling errors in Windows 11.