Runtime Errors – An Exercise In Frustration

What is a Runtime Error?

Defining the basic nature of this error is a fairly simple process. Runtime refers to the idea that a program is in progress on your computer, so a runtime error happens when an application is actually running on your machine. If the error were to occur in the program’s function before it got started, it would be called a compile time error. Unfortunately, as easy as the term is to define, it’s a fairly generic one. There are many different kinds of errors that can occur while a program is running, so just understanding the basic nature of one of these messages just isn’t enough to keep your machine running as it should be.

How can I get more information?

In order to make sure you prevent the problem from occurring in the future and fix any runtime errors you have now, you’ll probably want to get a bit more information about the specific message that is popping up on your screen. In most cases, you are quite likely to see a message box pop up when the actual error occurs. It usually says something like “Runtime Error 3340.” Recording this information right away will help you decide what’s going on with your machine. In addition to writing down the text of the message, you may want to record the following information as well.

· What were you doing when the error happened?

· What programs were running on your machine before you got the error message?

· Which programs had just started running when you got the error box?

· Which programs had been on for some time as the error occurred?

· Did you use the control-alt-delete key combination to get out of the error message?

· How much of the computer’s memory were you utilizing when the error message popped up on your screen?

· How much of your computer’s processor was in use when the error message occurred?

Keep in mind that you don’t have to have all of this information on hand even if you decide to contact a technical support hotline or company to help. The more material you have, however, the easier it will be to fix runtime errors in the long run.

It’s also a good idea to remember that just because you’ve had one runtime error message, it doesn’t mean that it’s going to be a continuing problem. If the same message continues to appear, though, you’ll certainly want to take a close look at what’s going on.

How Can I Prevent Runtime Errors?

The best way to fix a runtime error is to prevent it in the first place, and one good way to do that is good computer maintenance procedures.

Install Antivirus Software – One common cause of these errors is viruses, and you simply can’t survive today without an excellent antivirus program installed on your machine. There are thousands of reputable free and commercial programs online, but before you install any of them, please do your research. Rogue antivirus programs could only cause further computer errors and problems. Once you have selected an antivirus solution, you’ll need to update the program and scan your computer on at least a weekly basis to make certain you don’t encounter problems online.

Install Antispyware Software – Like viruses, malware and adware can cause runtime errors too, and your antivirus protection can’t handle the burden alone. As a result, choosing good antispyware software is almost as important as selection good antivirus software. Unfortunately, just like antispyware software, there are rogue programs floating around that could damage your machine, so do your homework before you download anything. Stay current with your updates, and allow the antispyware software to scan your machine on a fairly regular basis.