Runtime errors are generated when computers running certain program applications encounter issues. An example of this is the runtime error code 7. This type of runtime error has to do with "out of memory" problems. Conflicts with the Terminate and Stay Resident (TSR) programs or other open apps, memory issues, computer viruses and software trouble are the main causes of runtime errors.

Dealing With Runtime Errors

Most runtime errors can be fixed. Troubleshooting runtime errors starts with entering the specific runtime error code that appeared on major search engines. Gathering as much info on the particular code will help in finding the appropriate solution for it.

Once more information is available regarding the runtime errors encountered, it's time to do something. Consider performing the following activities:

* End-task all of the TSRs and other programs that are currently running to ensure that none of these are the culprit. To do this access Task Manager and hit Ctrl-Alt-Delete.

* For issues that have to do with the operating system (OS), consider OS reinstallation, but this is a pretty serious undertaking. In Windows 2000 or XP, a better option would be to try repairs for either Windows 2000 or XP computers. Scanning and repairing files can be done this way: Go to Start then Run. In the field provided, type: sfc/scannow and hit Enter. Make sure there's a space between "sfc" and "/."

* If the problem again and again happens with a particular application, visit that website of that program's developer and download any patches and updates. If there's none available, consider uninstalling then reinstalling the program concerned.

* Some runtime errors are cause by other plug-ins, add-ons or extra program software that were installed on the PC and are associated with the application generating the runtime error. If the additional program software installed is related to the application generating the run-time error message, make sure there are no available updates for the said programs, or try uninstalling to verify that they're not causing the issue.

* Update the definition files of the utilized anti-spyware and antivirus programs. Run regular exhaustive bug detection scans as these malware have the ability to cause a number of runtime errors.

* If the runtime errors still persist, the problem might lie with the system memory or it could be a hardware issue. In this situation, it would be best to get in touch with the program's technical support center for assistance. Contacting the motherboard or PC manufacturer could also be useful.

Issues with memory can often be settled with a simple reboot. But treat reboots as temporary fixes. Reboots clear up the memory, however, if the computer has insufficient memory or hard drive space for the applications being run, users will soon run short on memory again. Check that the hard drive has a minimum of 100 to 500MB free space so the swap file size can still expand.

To find out how much free space a PC has: go to My Computer. Right-click the hard drive (usually drive C:) and then from the menu select Properties and view the capacity of the disk. If the space is cramped, run disk cleanup by hitting the tab labeled Disk Cleanup and following the instructions.

Failing memory chips could also give rise to runtime errors. Taking out the troublesome memory chip and replacing it with a functioning one will get rid of the problem. For other runtime-related issues and errors like installation run-time error messages, consider cleaning out the registry's flawed or invalid portions using a registry cleaner.