ERROR_FILE_NOT_FOUND – How to Fix It on Windows

What Does ERROR_FILE_NOT_FOUND Mean?

ERROR_FILE_NOT_FOUND is a Windows error that usually means the operating system cannot locate a file or folder that a program is trying to access.

You may see this problem when opening an application, using an old shortcut, installing software, launching a Windows component, or accessing a file that has been moved or deleted.

In simple words: Windows is looking for something at a
specific location, but that file or folder is no longer available there.

Common reasons for this error

The file was accidentally deleted or moved.
A program was partially uninstalled.
A Windows shortcut points to an incorrect location.
System or application files are damaged.
A required program file is missing.
Windows system components need repair.

Quick Fix: Restart and Try Again

Before making major changes, try the simplest troubleshooting steps first.

Save your work and close the affected application.
Restart your Windows PC.
Open the application or file again.
If the error returns, continue with the solutions below.

Tip: If only one program shows the error, the problem may
be related to that specific application rather than Windows itself.

How to Fix ERROR_FILE_NOT_FOUND

1 Check the File or Folder Location

If the error appears when opening a file, first make sure the file still exists.

Open File Explorer.
Browse to the location where the file should be stored.
Check whether the file has been moved, renamed, or deleted.
If you find it, open the file directly.

2 Check a Broken Shortcut

An old desktop or Start menu shortcut can point to a program that no longer exists in its original location.

Right-click the shortcut.
Select Properties.
Look at the Target field.
Check whether the target program still exists.
If the program was removed, reinstall the application.

3 Repair Windows System Files

If multiple Windows applications are affected, damaged system files may be responsible. Windows includes built-in repair tools that can check system files.

Open Start.
Search for Command Prompt.
Choose Run as administrator.
Run the System File Checker command.

If Windows reports that system files were repaired, restart your computer and test the affected application again.

4 Repair or Reinstall the Affected Program

If the error happens with only one application, reinstalling or repairing that application can restore missing program files.

Open Settings.
Go to Apps → Installed apps.
Find the affected application.
Open its available options.
Use Repair if Windows provides the option.
If repair does not help, uninstall and reinstall the application.

5 Run Windows Update

Keeping Windows updated can help resolve compatibility problems and system-related issues.

Open Settings.
Select Windows Update.
Choose Check for updates.
Install available updates.
Restart the PC if requested.

6 Use System Restore if the Problem Started Recently

If the error appeared after a recent software installation or system change, System Restore may help return Windows to an earlier restore point.

Important: Only use a restore point that you recognize. Review the changes Windows says will be affected before continuing.

How to Prevent File Not Found Errors

Avoid manually deleting files from application folders.
Uninstall programs through Windows instead of deleting their folders.
Keep Windows and important applications updated.
Be careful when moving or renaming files used by shortcuts.
Keep regular backups of important personal files.

ERROR_FILE_NOT_FOUND FAQs

What is ERROR_FILE_NOT_FOUND?

It means Windows cannot find a file or folder that an application or system component is trying to access.

Why does Windows say it cannot find the file?

The file may have been deleted, moved, renamed, or become unavailable at the location expected by the application.

Can a broken shortcut cause this error?

Yes. A shortcut can produce a file-not-found error when its target points to a program that has been moved, deleted, or uninstalled.

Should I reinstall Windows?

No. Reinstalling Windows should not be the first step. Start with checking the file location, repairing the affected application, checking system files, and installing Windows updates.

Does this error mean my files are permanently lost?

Not necessarily. The error only indicates that Windows cannot find the expected location. Check the Recycle Bin, recent folders, backups, and other storage locations before assuming the file is gone.

Still Seeing ERROR_FILE_NOT_FOUND?

Start with the file location and shortcut checks. If the problem affects multiple applications, move on to Windows system repair and updates.

Review the Fixes