Error Code 80073712

You may experience Windows Vista error code 80073712 (or 0x80073712)when you try to use Windows Update. This error can occur when the windows update files are corrupt.

To fix this, run the following command from the run window (Press WINDOWS KEY + R):

Code:

chkdsk c: /f

This will scan and fix and errors, but will require your PC to be rebooted in the process.

Once you are back in Windows, copy the Vista setup CD to a directory on your hard drive. From here, run the installation and choose "update". This will install Vista over the top of the current installation and fix any corrupt files.

It is recommended that you make a backup of any important data, as if this last step is performed incorrectly or goes wrong then you may lose your files.

Windows host process Rundll32 has stopped working

Some Windows Vista users have been getting an error stating "Windows host process (rundll32) has stopped working". If you have the Nero burning software installed, it could be this that is causing the problem.

Browse to the following directory using Windows Explorer:

C:\Program Files\Common Files\Ahead\DSFilter\

Then rename the following items (if they exist) from .ax to .old, as this will prevent them from being accessed:

• NeVideo.ax
• NeroVideoProc.ax
• lmpgspl.ax

This will prevent some of the Nero codecs from rendering video thumbnails, which is most likely the cause of the problem.

Repair Corrupt Vista Files

Some Windows Vista errors are caused by corrupt system files causing instabilities, but troubleshooting these problems manually can be almost impossible. Thankfully, Vista includes a "System File Checker" application that will verify the integrity of core system files.

There are 2 types of scan, a verification and a scan/repair mode. The former will only check the files without repairing them automatically, the latter will fix any errors it finds.

To begin, load the command prompt by starting "cmd" from the run box (Press WINDOWS KEY + R to access this):

Then, type in one of the following commands (followed by the enter key) depending on the type of scan you wish to perform:

• sfc /verifyonly - To verify any corrupt files only.
• sfc /scannow - To verify and fix any corrupt files.

This will then start the scan and inform you of any files that require fixing: