Runtime Error 21

Unless you are a computer expert, or have a great deal of technical knowledge, you may be unsure what a Runtime Error is. It is basically a phrase used to express an implementation problem of a program running on your computer, starting from the time that the program loads, and ending at the time that it stops running.

There are several Runtime Errors, and each one is assigned a unique number alongside it to allow users to distinguish one from another.

Anyone that downloads a lot of programs or games to their computer is making changes to their system, and if these changes are happening on a regular basis, there is a chance that they can make the system unstable. As a result of this instability within the computer a Runtime Error 21 may show up, and the fix for this error involves using a System Restore to return to the place you were at before you made all of the changes.

It is quite common for a Runtime Error 21 to come up after a user has tried to open an unknown message on a social networking site, such as Facebook. Users often see this, believe they have got a virus, and use their virus protection software to run a scan - usually with no viruses being found. On looking further into the problem they are regularly told to try doing a System Restore.

A System Restore is almost like an 'undo' button, in that it can be done quickly and easily, and allows you to remove some of the changes that you have recently made to your system. It will resolve the Runtime Error 21 and it will not affect any of your personal data files (such as MS Word documents, favourites, drawings etc.), but it will remove programs that you have downloaded prior to the error.

The way in which System Restore works, is that your computer takes a 'picture' of your configurations at certain points, then allows you to go back to any of these points at which your computer was running fine, before the error. You will be prompted by a calendar which will allow you to go back to a chosen point before you had the problem.

To find System Restore within your computer you should click on your Start Menu, followed by 'All Programs'. This will then allow you to choose 'Accessories', followed by 'System Tools'. System Restore is found within the 'System Tools' section, and clicking on it will bring up a Wizard which will take you through the process step-by-step.

System Restore is regarded as the quickest and easiest way to solve a Runtime Error 21. If you decide that you would like some of the (now un-installed) programs back on your computer, remember not to install the program that gave you the error in the first place.

Some technical experts will advise you to use a registry cleaner to clean up your system, as this is where most problems can initially stem from. If you are unsure what to do in the event of an error, seek professional assistance.