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Error Path Not Found: 5 Simple Methods That Can Fix it

Discover easy solutions to quick get rid of the error

5 min. read

Updated onMarch 19, 2024

updated onMarch 19, 2024

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Key notes

While some error codes are specific, others can be encountered in a wide array of problems, thus making it slightly trickier to troubleshoot them. One such is theERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUNDmessage in Windows.

It indicates thatWindows can’t access the diskor the data it’s trying to read. The error has been reported while opening files, running applications, and even during a Windows update. So, let’s find out how you can fix things.

Why does ERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUND error occur?

Here are a few reasons you might be getting the error:

How can I fix ERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUND error?

Before we start making the major changes, here are a few quick things you can try:

If none work, head to the solutions listed next.

1. Repair your registry

The simplest way to repair your registry is to use a dedicated tool. Don’t forget first to back up your registry in case anything goes wrong.

Many reasons are causing theERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUNDcode, which means that Windows cannot access the main disk where your OS is installed.

We recommend usingthird-party softwareto fix it and keep your computer safe from common Windows errors.

2. Repair corrupt system files and check for disk issues

The DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) and SFC (System File Checker) scans primarily repair the corrupt system files, while Check Disk aims to fix issues with the storage drive, if any. After running the three, check whether theERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUNDmessage is fixed.

3. Replace the affected file

Some userschecked the error logsand were able to identify the affected file. This is usually tricky because once you know what’s causing the trouble, simply replacing the file (or the whole folder) fixes things in no time.

All you have to do is find a healthy computer with the same Windows version and architecture and copy the files from it to the PC throwing the error.

Here are a few of the affected files/folders, replacing which helped users:C:\Windows\System32\DriverStore\FileRepository\hpsamd.inf_amd64_0784fd3ef0d7ec93C:\Windows\System32\DriverStore\FileRepository\capimg.inf_amd64_5a4379f63bea786c

4. Clean the temporary files and folders

After using Disk Cleanup, check if theERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUNDcode is still there. Several users claim thatWindows.old folderwas the cause for this issue, so be sure to selectPrevious Windows installationsinDisk Cleanupto remove it.

5. Perform a System Restore

Wait for the restore process to complete. Your computer will restart during the process, so we recommend you save any open files. And once it’s complete, theERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUNDerror should be gone for good.

Also, before you leave, check some quick tips toboost Windows performanceand thebest repair toolsto get rid of such errors easily.

If you’ve encountered other workarounds for this error, please list the troubleshooting steps in the comment section below.

Error Path Not Found: 5 Simple Methods That Can Fix it#

Why does ERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUND error occur?#

How can I fix ERROR_PATH_NOT_FOUND error?#

1. Repair your registry#

2. Repair corrupt system files and check for disk issues#

3. Replace the affected file#

4. Clean the temporary files and folders#

5. Perform a System Restore#