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How to Fix the PR-End-Of-File Error on Windows 11: Complete Troubleshooting Steps

The PR-End-Of-File error on Windows 11 is a common issue that can interrupt your work or cause programs to crash unexpectedly. It usually appears when a program tries to read beyond the end of a file, which can be caused by corrupted files or system glitches.

Fixing this error involves a few simple troubleshooting steps you can follow at home. You don’t need to be an expert; just follow the instructions carefully.

This guide will take you through easy, clear methods to resolve the problem. By the end, you should have a smooth-running system again.

Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into detailed solutions.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple reboot fixes temporary glitches causing the error.
  • Save your work: Before troubleshooting, make sure to save any important files to avoid data loss.
  • Check for Windows updates: Updating Windows 11 ensures you have all the latest fixes and patches that might resolve the error.
  • Create a restore point: This helps you revert your system back to a working state if something goes wrong during troubleshooting.

Step 1: Run the System File Checker (SFC) Scan

The PR-End-Of-File error can happen due to corrupted system files. Windows has a built-in tool called System File Checker (SFC) that scans and repairs these files automatically.

  1. Press Windows + S to open the search bar and type cmd.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This process might take some time. Do not close the window until it finishes. Once done, it will tell you if any corrupted files were found and repaired.

Why this step is important: Corrupted system files can cause unexpected behavior, and fixing them can resolve many errors, including PR-End-Of-File.

Step 2: Use the DISM Tool to Repair Windows Image

If the SFC scan finds issues but cannot fix them, you should use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool. It repairs the Windows image itself, which can fix deeper problems.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator again.
  2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Each command performs a different level of check and repair. The last one, /RestoreHealth, tries to fix the corrupted Windows image.

Why this step is important: Sometimes, system corruption is beyond what SFC can fix. DISM repairs the core Windows image, allowing SFC to work properly later.

Step 3: Check the Problematic Program or File

The PR-End-Of-File error can be triggered by a specific file or program trying to read beyond available data. Try to identify if the error appears with a certain app or file.

  • Open the program you were using when the error occurred.
  • Try opening different files or creating a new file to see if the error happens again.
  • If it only happens with one file, that file may be corrupted or incomplete.

What to do if a file is corrupted: Try to recover it by opening it in another program or restoring it from a backup.

Why this step is important: Knowing the source helps you focus your fix on the right files or applications instead of applying broad fixes.

Step 4: Update or Reinstall the Problematic Program

If the error is linked to a specific application, it might be outdated or have corrupted files itself.

  1. Check for updates in the app’s settings or on its official website.
  2. If updates are available, install them and restart your computer.
  3. If updating doesn’t help, uninstall the program:
  • Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  • Go to Apps > Installed apps.
  • Find the program, click the three dots next to it, and select Uninstall.
  • After uninstalling, download the latest version from the official site and install it fresh.

Why this step is important: Application bugs or corrupted files within the program can cause errors. A fresh install often fixes these issues.

Step 5: Run a Virus Scan

Malware or viruses can cause unexpected errors, including PR-End-Of-File. Running a full system scan ensures your computer is clean.

  1. Open Windows Security by searching for it in the Start menu.
  2. Click on Virus & threat protection.
  3. Select Quick scan or Full scan for a deeper check.
  4. Follow any instructions if threats are found.

Why this step is important: Viruses can corrupt files and interfere with system processes, causing errors like PR-End-Of-File.

Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot

Sometimes, third-party software conflicts cause errors. Performing a clean boot starts Windows with only essential services, helping you identify if another program is the culprit.

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. Go to the Services tab.
  3. Check Hide all Microsoft services to avoid disabling important system services.
  4. Click Disable all.
  5. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  6. Disable all startup items.
  7. Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
  8. Restart your computer.

Check if the PR-End-Of-File error still occurs. If it doesn’t, enable services and startup items one by one to find the problematic program.

Why this step is important: Identifying conflicting software helps prevent the error without needing to reinstall Windows.

FAQs

What causes the PR-End-Of-File error on Windows 11?

This error usually happens when a program tries to read beyond the actual end of a file. Causes include corrupted files, faulty programs, or system file corruption.

Can I fix this error without technical skills?

Yes. Basic steps like restarting, running system scans, and updating software are user-friendly and often fix the problem.

Is it safe to run the DISM and SFC commands?

Yes, both are official Windows tools designed to repair system files and images, and they are safe to use.

Will reinstalling Windows fix the PR-End-Of-File error?

Reinstalling Windows is a last resort and usually not necessary unless the system is heavily corrupted.

What if the error occurs only with a specific file?

The file may be corrupted or incomplete. Try opening it with another program or restore it from a backup.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face the PR-End-Of-File error, consider these final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for personalized help.
  • System Restore: Use a restore point to revert your system to a previous state when it was working fine.
  • Reset Windows: As a last resort, you can reset Windows 11 while keeping your files, which reinstalls the system and removes problematic software.
  • Seek professional help: If you’re uncomfortable performing these steps, consult a trusted computer technician.

Conclusion

The PR-End-Of-File error on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but it is usually fixable with simple troubleshooting steps. Start with basic checks like restarting your PC and running system scans. Check for corrupted files, update or reinstall problematic programs, and scan for malware.

If software conflicts are causing the error, a clean boot helps identify the culprit. Remember to create a restore point before making major changes, so you can safely undo any mistakes.

By following this step-by-step guide, you increase your chances of resolving the error quickly without needing expert intervention. Stay patient and systematic while troubleshooting, and your system should be back to normal soon.

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