Symptoms
- Message specifically says Runtime Error, sometimes with a program name and number
- Program may close immediately after the message or continue but behave oddly
- Happens with a specific program rather than system-wide
- May be tied to a specific action within that program
Likely causes
- CommonBug in the specific program's codeRuntime errors are typically the program itself detecting an internal problem it can't recover from.
- CommonOutdated version of the program with a known bugSoftware updates frequently fix specific runtime error triggers.
- PossibleMissing or outdated runtime library the program depends onSimilar to DLL errors, an outdated shared component can trigger this.
- PossibleCorrupted program installationDamaged program files can cause internal errors during specific operations.
- Less commonConflict with another running program or a plugin/add-inSome runtime errors are triggered by interaction with another piece of software.
What to do
- Note the exact error number and any additional text shown, since this often maps to a documented issue for that specific program.
- Check for and install any available update for the program, since many runtime errors are fixed in newer versions.
- Install or repair the relevant Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages from Microsoft's official site, since many programs' runtime errors trace back to this shared component.
- Uninstall and reinstall the program completely if updating doesn't resolve it, to rule out a corrupted installation.
- Disable any add-ins, plugins, or extensions within the program one at a time to isolate a conflicting one, if applicable.
- Search the program's official support site or forums for the exact error number, since vendors often document specific known runtime errors.
- If the error happens during a specific repeatable action, try to identify and avoid that trigger while reporting it to the software's support team.
When to call a pro
If updating and reinstalling the program doesn't resolve a specific runtime error, its own support team or a technician can help interpret the error number in more detail.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.