How to Troubleshoot Malwarebytes Error Codes on Windows

Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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Malwarebytes is a popular tool used to identify, quarantine, and remove malware from a computer. Despite being a reliable program, it can encounter errors that can hinder its functionality. The purpose of this document is to guide you on how to troubleshoot common Malwarebytes error codes while working on Windows. By understanding these error codes and knowing how they can be resolved, you can ensure that your system stays protected and continues to function optimally.

1. Introduction to Malwarebytes and error codes

Malwarebytes provides a comprehensive solution to protect computers from malware, spyware, ransomware, and other threats. Although it is highly efficient, it can generate error codes for various reasons such as software corruption, conflict with other applications, or incorrect settings. Awareness of these error codes and their solutions is important in maintaining your computer's security.

Error codes are unique identifiers that represent the particular problems being experienced by the software. When an error occurs, Malwarebytes generates a numeric or alphanumeric code that helps users and support personnel identify the root cause of the problem. Each error code corresponds to a specific problem, and understanding these codes is the key to faster troubleshooting.

2. Common Malwarebytes error codes and their meanings

Here are some commonly found Malwarebytes error codes:

• Error code MBAM_ERROR_UPDATING (12157): This error occurs when there are problems updating the Malwarebytes database. This can be caused by an unstable Internet connection or firewall settings blocking the update process.
• Error code MBAM_ERROR_EXPANDING: Indicates a problem with file extraction and expansion during the installation or update process. Corrupted installation files or insufficient disk space can trigger this error.
• Error code MBAM_ERROR_MISSING_FILE: Occurs when files needed to run Malwarebytes are missing or deleted. This can happen during an incomplete installation or when affected by other security software.

3. General troubleshooting steps

Before we dive into specific error codes, consider these general troubleshooting steps because they can resolve many common problems:

A. Verify system requirements

Make sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements to run Malwarebytes. Check for sufficient RAM, disk space, and compatible Windows operating system versions.

B. Restart your computer

Restarting your computer can fix temporary glitches that may cause the software to malfunction. This simple step can help refresh system resources and alleviate minor errors.

C. Update Malwarebytes

Make sure you have the latest version of Malwarebytes. Running an outdated version can cause compatibility issues and malfunctions. Regular updates ensure you have the latest security definitions and bug fixes.

D. Check your internet connection

A reliable Internet connection is important for updates and database upgrades. Verify that your Internet is working properly and perform basic troubleshooting such as resetting your router if necessary.

4. Solution to specific error codes

Now, let's troubleshoot some specific error codes:

A. Fixing error code MBAM_ERROR_UPDATING (12157)

This error usually indicates a problem updating the Malwarebytes database. Here are the steps to resolve it:

1. Check firewall and antivirus settings: Make sure your firewall or antivirus software is not blocking Malwarebytes from accessing the Internet. Add Malwarebytes to the exceptions list if necessary.
2. Reset Internet Settings:
   • Open the Control Panel.
   • Click Network and Internet, then click Internet Options.
   • Go to the Advanced tab and click Reset.
   • Restart your computer and try updating Malwarebytes again.

B. Fixing the error code MBAM_ERROR_EXPANDING

This error may be caused by problems during file extraction or insufficient disk space. Follow these steps to troubleshoot:

1. Ensure enough disk space: Verify that there is enough disk space for Malwarebytes to operate. Delete unnecessary files or programs if necessary.
2. Re-download the installation files: Corrupted installation files can interrupt the process. Download fresh installation files from the official Malwarebytes website and retry the installation.

C. Fixing the error code MBAM_ERROR_MISSING_FILE

This error indicates missing files, possibly due to an incomplete installation or external interference. Here's how to resolve it:

1. Reinstall Malwarebytes: Uninstall the current version of Malwarebytes:
   • Go to Control Panel, then choose Programs and Features.
   • Locate Malwarebytes, right-click, and select Uninstall.
   • Download the latest version of Malwarebytes from the official website.
   • Follow the installation instructions carefully.

If reinstalling still doesn’t resolve the issue, consider checking for other third-party security software in your system that might be conflicting with Malwarebytes.

5. Advanced troubleshooting techniques

If basic troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, advanced steps can be taken:

A. Use the Malwarebytes Support Tool

Malwarebytes provides a support tool designed to help identify and fix common problems. Use this tool if the usual troubleshooting is not successful:

1. Visit the Malwarebytes website to download the support tool.
2. Run the tool and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. This tool will diagnose common errors and fix them automatically. Follow any additional instructions provided by the tool.

B. Check the Windows Event Viewer

The Windows Event Viewer can provide a more detailed error log that may tell you more about what's going wrong:

1. Open Event Viewer by pressing Windows + R, typing eventvwr, and pressing Enter.
2. Browse to Windows Logs and select the application to view relevant logs related to the Malwarebytes errors.
3. Analyze the log details for any patterns or messages that might indicate what might be causing the problem with Malwarebytes.

6. Involve professional help

If you've tried all of the steps above and haven't been able to resolve the issue, seeking professional help from Malwarebytes may be the next step:

A. Contacting Malwarebytes Support

Contact the official Malwarebytes support team through their website:

1. Visit the Malwarebytes Support page and fill out the contact form with relevant information including the error code, steps taken to troubleshoot, and system details.
2. Provide any logs or screenshots that can help the support team better understand your situation.
3. Wait for a response and follow the troubleshooting steps they suggest.

7. Preventing future mistakes

To minimize errors with Malwarebytes in the future, follow these best practices:

A. Keep the software updated

Always use the latest version of Malwarebytes and other critical system software to benefit from updated security features and patches.

B. Scan your system regularly

Set up a regular schedule for system scans with Malwarebytes to quickly detect and remove threats, preventing problems from growing over time.

C. Maintain system health

Keep your Windows operating system and drivers up to date, and clear temporary files to maximize performance and minimize error occurrences.

Conclusion

This document explains in detail the various Malwarebytes error codes that you may encounter while using Windows, and provides detailed troubleshooting techniques. By following the general and specific troubleshooting steps provided here, you can resolve many common problems. Always consider engaging professional assistance for complex problems and apply proactive measures to keep your system and software in optimal condition. Error codes can be daunting, but with preparation and patience, they can be managed effectively.

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