Runtime Errors
According to the Webopedia, runtime errors are errors that occur during a program's execution. In contrast, an error that occurs while a program is being compiled is called a compile-time error. Still confused? Runtime errors are bugs in a program that can't necessarily be avoided by the designers such as insufficient memory.
Usually, you can recover from runtime errors before the entire system comes crashing down.
Below are a few examples (out of thousands) of runtime errors:
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When looking at the list, you may wonder, "Huh? What is that supposed to mean?" Runtime error messages are often written in computer-speak and make little sense to the average user. While you understand "out of memory," "division by zero" may have you stumped.
Fortunately many runtime errors come with error code numbers which can easily be researched by visiting the Microsoft website or the program's website. Other runtime errors will require a different approach.
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The main causes of runtime errors are:
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When you have runtime errors due to a problem with a particular piece of software, go to the software developer's website and check for updates or patches. Oftentimes, known issues are repaired and you can download a patch to automatically repair your runtime errors.
If you get your runtime errors because of a conflict with other programs, try to isolate the issue by using Task Manager to "end task" the other programs. If a program is starting automatically each time Windows starts up and is causing problems, you can prevent it from loading at startup by going to Start, Programs, Startup. Next, right-click the program you wish to remove from startup and delete it.
In addition, you can go into MSCONFIG and manage your startup items. This will help with memory-related runtime errors. To do so, go to Start, Run, and then type in "MSCONFIG." Find the Startup tab and disable programs that you don't use regularly. Each program running takes a chunk of memory. By limiting running programs, you will dramatically help your PC run smoother.
Computer viruses and spyware have been blamed for thousands of computer errors for good reason. Not only do they cause specific damage based on their programming, they also chew up your system resources, make changes to your registry, and interfere with performance. Trojans can open up a pipeline that allows even more viruses and spyware programs in. An infected PC rarely has just one infection. As these nasties multiply, so do runtime errors and other computer problems.
Add-ons and plug-ins can cause runtime errors as well. If your program has add-ons or plug-ins and you are getting runtime errors, check for updates for the add-ons and plug-ins as well as the original software program.
Another type of runtime error is a scripting error when viewing a webpage. This is caused by the script debugging settings and error notification settings found in the advanced section of your Internet Options. To stop debugging and runtime error messages when using Internet Explorer, go to Tools, Internet Options, Advanced. From there, scroll through the list and disable script debugging. Next, remove the check mark next to "Display a notification about every script error."
Runtime errors number in the thousands. Take care of your system by keeping it free of viruses and spyware, limiting the number of programs running simultaneously, and keeping everything updated and you will dramatically reduce your risk.