Blog

How to Fix mrtstub.exe Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

If you are experiencing issues with mrtstub.exe on your Windows 11 computer, you are not alone. This error can interrupt routine operations and cause frustration. Fortunately, fixing it is usually straightforward if you follow the right steps.

mrtstub.exe is part of the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool, which helps keep your system safe from malware. Problems with this file can occur due to corruption, conflicts, or system glitches.

This guide will walk you through simple and effective methods to resolve the mrtstub.exe error. Each step is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along without confusion.

By the end, you should be able to fix the issue and restore your system’s smooth functioning.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before diving into troubleshooting, here are a few quick checks and prerequisites:

  • Make sure your Windows 11 system is up to date. Sometimes, updates fix underlying bugs.
  • Have a stable internet connection for downloading any necessary tools or updates.
  • Ensure you have administrator access on your PC, as some fixes require elevated permissions.
  • Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus software to avoid conflicts during troubleshooting.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Restarting your PC is the simplest fix and often resolves temporary glitches causing the mrtstub.exe error. This clears the system memory and resets background processes.

How to restart:

  1. Click on the Start menu (Windows icon) in the bottom-left corner.
  2. Select the Power button.
  3. Choose Restart.
  4. Wait for your PC to reboot and check if the error persists.

Step 2: Run the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool Manually

The mrtstub.exe file relates to the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT). Running this tool manually can help fix corrupted or missing files.

To run MSRT manually:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type mrt and press Enter.
  3. The Malicious Software Removal Tool window will open.
  4. Click Next and select a scan type (Quick or Full scan recommended).
  5. Click Next again to start the scan and follow on-screen instructions.

This process helps detect and remove malware that might be causing the error.

Step 3: Check for Windows Updates

Windows updates often include patches for known bugs and security improvements, which can resolve errors related to system files like mrtstub.exe.

How to update Windows 11:

  1. Click the Start menu and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Windows Update in the left sidebar.
  3. Click Check for updates.
  4. If updates are found, download and install them.
  5. Restart your PC after updates complete.

Step 4: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

System File Checker is a built-in Windows utility that scans and repairs corrupted system files, which might be causing the mrtstub.exe error.

Step-by-step guide to run SFC scan:

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

The scanning process may take some time. Once completed, it will report if any corrupted files were repaired.

Step 5: Use DISM Tool to Repair Windows Image

If the SFC scan does not fix the problem, the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can repair deeper Windows image issues.

How to use DISM:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (see Step 4).
  2. Type the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This process checks for component store corruption and attempts to fix it.

Step 6: Scan for Malware Using Windows Security

Sometimes malware can disguise itself as legitimate system files like mrtstub.exe. Running a full system scan with Windows Security helps detect and remove threats.

Steps to scan your PC:

  1. Open the Start menu and select Settings.
  2. Navigate to Privacy & security > Windows Security.
  3. Click Virus & threat protection.
  4. Under Current threats, click Scan options.
  5. Select Full scan and click Scan now.

Alternative Method: Perform a Clean Boot

If the error persists, it might be due to software conflicts. Performing a clean boot starts Windows with minimal drivers and startup programs to isolate the problem.

How to perform a clean boot:

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check Hide all Microsoft services at the bottom.
  4. Click Disable all.
  5. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  6. In Task Manager, disable all startup items.
  7. Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
  8. Restart your PC and see if the error continues.

If the error disappears, you can re-enable services and startup items one by one to find the culprit.

FAQs About mrtstub.exe Error on Windows 11

What is mrtstub.exe?

mrtstub.exe is a component of the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool, designed to detect and remove malware from your PC.

Is mrtstub.exe safe?

Yes, the legitimate mrtstub.exe file is safe and part of Windows security tools. However, malware can sometimes disguise itself with a similar name.

Can I delete mrtstub.exe?

It is not recommended to delete this file manually, as it is part of Windows updates and security features. Instead, fix errors related to it using troubleshooting steps.

Why does mrtstub.exe cause errors?

Errors can occur due to file corruption, malware infection, conflicts with other software, or incomplete Windows updates.

Will reinstalling Windows fix the error?

Reinstalling Windows can fix persistent issues but should be considered a last resort after trying all simpler troubleshooting options.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps mentioned above and the mrtstub.exe error still appears, consider the following options:

  • Use System Restore: Roll back your PC to a point before the error started occurring.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support site for personalized help: https://support.microsoft.com
  • Seek professional help: Sometimes, hardware or complex software issues require expert assistance.

Conclusion

The mrtstub.exe error on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but most cases are fixable with simple troubleshooting. Start by restarting your computer and running the Malicious Software Removal Tool manually. Keep your system updated and scan for malware regularly to prevent future issues.

Using tools like System File Checker and DISM ensures your system files stay intact and healthy. If software conflicts cause the error, a clean boot can help identify the problem.

Remember to approach each step calmly and carefully. By following this guide, you’ll improve your chances of quickly resolving the mrtstub.exe error and keeping your Windows 11 PC running smoothly.

Leave a Reply