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How to Fix the “Element Not Found” Error on Windows 10: Complete Troubleshooting Steps

The “Element Not Found” error on Windows 10 can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to access files or run programs. This error usually indicates that the system is unable to locate a required file or component.

Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix this issue. Most of these methods do not require advanced technical knowledge.

By following this guide carefully, you will be able to identify and resolve the problem with clear instructions. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into detailed solutions.

Understanding why this error occurs helps prevent it from happening again in the future.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before you begin troubleshooting, make sure to perform these quick checks. These can often solve the problem without further steps:

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple reboot clears temporary glitches causing the error.
  • Check file paths: Ensure the file or folder you are trying to access still exists and has not been moved or deleted.
  • Update Windows: Installing the latest Windows updates can fix known bugs and improve system stability.
  • Run antivirus scan: Malware infections can corrupt system files and cause errors.

Step 1: Run System File Checker (SFC)

The System File Checker tool scans for corrupted or missing system files and repairs them automatically. This is often the root cause of the “Element Not Found” error.

To run SFC, follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. In the command window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait patiently as Windows scans and repairs system files. This may take several minutes.
  4. Once completed, restart your computer to apply changes.

This tool is important because corrupted system files can prevent Windows from finding essential elements properly.

Step 2: Use the DISM Tool

If the SFC scan does not fix the issue, the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can repair the system image, which is another potential cause of problems.

Here’s how to use DISM:

  1. Open Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin) as in Step 1.
  2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
    3. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  3. These commands check for corruption and attempt to restore the system image.
  4. After completion, restart your PC.

This step is useful because it addresses deeper Windows image corruption that SFC cannot fix alone.

Step 3: Check and Repair Disk Errors

Disk errors can also cause files or elements to become inaccessible. Running a disk check can identify and fix such issues.

Follow these instructions:

  1. Open Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type chkdsk C: /f /r and press Enter. Replace C: with your system drive letter if different.
  3. You will be asked if you want to schedule the scan on the next restart. Type Y and press Enter.
  4. Restart your computer. The scan will run before Windows loads.

This process helps fix bad sectors and file system errors that might cause the “Element Not Found” error.

Step 4: Reset or Re-register Windows Store (If Error Occurs with Apps)

If you encounter this error while opening Windows Store apps, resetting or re-registering the Store might help.

To reset Windows Store:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Apps > Apps & Features.
  3. Find Microsoft Store in the list and click it.
  4. Select Advanced options, then click Reset.

To re-register the Store using PowerShell:

  1. Open Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    3. PowerShell -ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted -Command "& {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register $Env:SystemRootWinStoreAppxManifest.xml}"
  3. Restart your computer afterward.

This step solves issues related to the Store app’s configuration or corruption.

Step 5: Create a New User Account

Sometimes, user profile corruption can cause the “Element Not Found” error. Creating a new user account can help determine if this is the case.

To create a new account:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Navigate to Accounts > Family & other users.
  3. Click Add someone else to this PC.
  4. Follow the prompts to create a new local user account.
  5. Sign out of your current account and sign in with the new one.
  6. Check if the error still appears.

If the error disappears, your original user profile may be corrupted.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you can try these advanced methods:

  • Perform a System Restore: Restore your PC to a previous point when it was working fine. This can undo recent changes causing the error.
  • Update or reinstall device drivers: Outdated or faulty drivers can cause system errors. Use Device Manager to update or reinstall drivers.
  • Reset Windows 10: As a last resort, reset your Windows installation while keeping your files. This reinstalls Windows and fixes system errors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the “Element Not Found” error in Windows 10?

This error usually occurs because Windows cannot locate a necessary file or component due to corruption, deletion, or disk errors.

Is it safe to run SFC and DISM scans?

Yes, these are built-in Windows tools designed to scan and repair system files safely.

Will resetting Windows Store delete my apps?

Resetting the Store resets its data but does not delete installed apps. However, you may need to sign in again.

Can a malware infection cause this error?

Yes, malware can corrupt or delete essential system files, leading to this error.

How do I know if my hard drive is failing?

Frequent errors, slow performance, and disk check errors are signs your hard drive may be failing. Consider backing up data immediately.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and the “Element Not Found” error still persists, consider these final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Official support can provide advanced troubleshooting tailored to your system.
  • Visit Microsoft Community Forums: Many users share solutions for similar errors.
  • Seek professional help: If you are uncomfortable performing advanced fixes, a computer technician can assist you safely.

Conclusion

The “Element Not Found” error on Windows 10 is commonly caused by corrupted system files, disk errors, or user profile issues. Starting with basic checks like restarting your PC and verifying file locations can save time.

Running the System File Checker and DISM tools are effective ways to repair system files and images. Disk checks and resetting the Windows Store address other common causes.

If the problem continues, creating a new user account or performing a system restore may be necessary. Always keep your system updated and backed up to avoid data loss.

By following these detailed troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the error and restore your Windows 10 system to proper working order.

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