Seeing the message “An error occurred while troubleshooting” can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to diagnose another issue on your PC. If you’re wondering how to fix ‘Error Occurred While Troubleshooting’ on Windows 11, this guide covers the most effective methods to resolve it.
The error usually shows up when the Windows Troubleshooter can’t access necessary system files or services. Let’s look at the step-by-step fixes that will get things working again.
1. Run Troubleshooter as Administrator
Sometimes, the error simply occurs because the tool doesn’t have the right permissions.
Steps:
- Press
Windows + Sand type Troubleshoot settings. - Click Other troubleshooters.
- Select the specific troubleshooter (e.g., Internet Connections).
- Click Run as administrator.
By granting admin rights, you ensure the tool can access all system components.
2. Enable Cryptographic Services
Windows troubleshooting relies on certain background services. One essential service is Cryptographic Services.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Press Windows + R, type services.msc, then hit Enter. |
| 2 | Scroll down and find Cryptographic Services. |
| 3 | Right-click > Properties. |
| 4 | Set Startup type to Automatic. |
| 5 | Click Start, then OK. |
This service must be running to allow secure access to system files. If it’s off, troubleshooters may fail.
3. Use the System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted system files often cause troubleshooting tools to break.
To fix this, run an SFC scan:
bashCopyEditsfc /scannow
How to do it:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type the above command and hit Enter.
- Wait for the scan to complete, then restart your computer.
If SFC finds any corrupt files, it will automatically replace them.
4. Reset the Windows Troubleshooter Cache
Corrupted cache files may also trigger this error. Resetting them is simple.
Steps:
- Open File Explorer.
- Navigate to:
C:\Windows\System32\Diagnostics\ - Delete or rename the Scheduled and Troubleshooting folders (you might need admin rights).
Afterward, try running the troubleshooter again.
5. Use the Group Policy Editor (For Pro Users)
If your system is part of a domain or you’re using Windows 11 Pro, group policy settings might be blocking the troubleshooter.
To check:
- Press
Windows + R, typegpedit.msc, hit Enter. - Navigate to:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Troubleshooting and Diagnostics - Double-click Diagnostics: Allow users to access and run Troubleshooting Wizards.
- Set it to Enabled, then click Apply.
Restart your system and run the troubleshooter again.
6. Create a New User Profile
In rare cases, your user profile might be corrupted. Creating a new one can help isolate the issue.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Open Settings > Accounts > Other users. |
| 2 | Click Add account and follow the prompts. |
| 3 | Log in to the new account and test the Troubleshooter. |
If it works on the new profile, the original one may have registry errors or permission problems.
Additional Tips
- Keep Windows updated to avoid legacy bugs.
- Disable third-party antivirus temporarily when troubleshooting.
- Restart your PC after each fix to ensure changes take effect.
For related system tweaks, check out How to Enable Dark Mode for Google Photos on the Web and How to Use Google Password Manager on Android. They provide helpful tips that improve usability and security on your devices.
If you’re curious, the Windows Troubleshooter is part of a suite of diagnostic tools within the OS that help identify and resolve computer system issues. These tools have been refined over the years as part of the broader field of operating system development.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to live with the “Error Occurred While Troubleshooting” issue. By following the steps above, you’ll restore the utility’s functionality and gain access to one of Windows 11’s most useful tools. If all else fails, consider a repair install using the Windows Media Creation Tool.
Got the issue fixed using one of these steps? Let us know which one worked for you.
