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How to Fix “Data Area Passed to a System Call Is Too Small” Error on Windows 11

Experiencing the error message “Data Area Passed to a System Call Is Too Small” on Windows 11 can be frustrating. This issue often appears when a program or system process tries to access memory incorrectly. Fortunately, there are straightforward ways to fix it.

This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to resolve this error. Whether you are a beginner or have some technical knowledge, these instructions are designed to be easy to follow.

By understanding the root cause and applying the fixes carefully, you can get your Windows 11 system running smoothly again. Let’s begin with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting steps.

Follow each method in order, and you’ll likely find the solution without needing advanced tools or complicated processes.

Quick Note

Before starting, ensure you have the following:

  • Administrator Access: Many fixes require admin rights to make system changes.
  • Windows Updates Installed: Keeping Windows updated avoids compatibility issues.
  • Backup Your Data: It’s always safe to backup important files before making system changes.
  • Basic Understanding: Be comfortable with following simple on-screen instructions.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, this error is temporary and caused by minor glitches. Restarting your PC refreshes system processes and clears temporary files.

How to restart:

  1. Click the Start button (Windows icon) at the bottom left.
  2. Select Power, then click Restart.
  3. Wait for your computer to reboot and check if the error still appears.

This simple step fixes many issues without further intervention.

Step 2: Run the System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupt or missing system files can cause this error. The System File Checker tool scans and repairs these files automatically.

How to run SFC:

  1. Press Windows + S keys and type cmd.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  3. In the black window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait patiently as the scan runs; it may take some time.
  5. If repairs are made, restart your computer and check for the error.

This tool helps fix damaged Windows files that might be causing the problem.

Step 3: Use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Tool

If SFC doesn’t resolve the issue, DISM can repair the Windows system image, which includes core OS components.

How to run DISM:

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

These commands check and repair Windows image corruption.

Once complete, restart your PC and verify if the error persists.

Step 4: Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers

Outdated or corrupted device drivers can trigger system call errors. Updating them ensures compatibility with Windows 11.

How to update drivers:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Locate any device with a yellow warning icon (indicating driver issues).
  3. Right-click the device and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow prompts.
  5. Restart your computer after updating.

If updating doesn’t help, you can uninstall the driver and then reinstall the latest version from the manufacturer’s website.

Step 5: Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft regularly releases patches that fix bugs and improve system stability.

How to check for updates:

  1. Click Start and open Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Windows Update on the left panel.
  3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
  4. Restart your PC to apply changes.

Regular updates help prevent errors like this by keeping system files current.

Alternative Method: Perform a Clean Boot

If the problem is caused by third-party software conflicts, a clean boot can help identify the culprit.

How to perform a clean boot:

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check Hide all Microsoft services to avoid disabling essential services.
  4. Click Disable all.
  5. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  6. Disable all startup items listed here.
  7. Close Task Manager and click OK on System Configuration.
  8. Restart your computer and see if the error continues.

If the error disappears, enable services and startup programs one by one to find the problematic software.

FAQs

What does “Data Area Passed to a System Call Is Too Small” mean?

This error indicates that a program or process tried to send data to the operating system but provided a buffer or memory area smaller than needed. It usually relates to system or application bugs.

Is this error harmful to my computer?

While it may not immediately harm your PC, it can cause crashes or prevent certain programs from running properly.

Can antivirus software cause this error?

Yes, sometimes overly aggressive antivirus programs interfere with system calls and cause errors. Temporarily disabling antivirus can help identify this.

Do I need technical skills to fix this?

The steps provided are basic and user-friendly. Following instructions carefully should be enough for most users.

Will resetting Windows fix this error?

Resetting Windows is a last resort and usually fixes deep system issues. Try other methods first to avoid losing data.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face the error, consider the following options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Official help can provide advanced diagnostics.
  • System Restore: Restore your PC to a previous working state.
  • Reinstall Windows 11: As a final option, reinstalling Windows ensures a clean system.

Remember to backup your important files before attempting these advanced solutions.

Conclusion

The “Data Area Passed to a System Call Is Too Small” error on Windows 11 can be resolved by following simple troubleshooting steps. Starting with a restart, running system scans, updating drivers, and checking for Windows updates usually fixes the problem.

If third-party software causes the issue, a clean boot helps isolate it. Only when all else fails should you consider system restore or reinstalling Windows.

By understanding and applying these fixes carefully, you can regain a stable and error-free Windows experience.

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