Deciphering Event Viewer Errors: A Comprehensive Guide

Event Viewer is a powerful tool in Windows operating systems that logs system events, including errors, warnings, and informational messages. Understanding these logs can be crucial for troubleshooting system issues and maintaining optimal performance. This article provides a comprehensive guide to deciphering common Event Viewer errors, focusing on two specific errors often encountered during Windows startup: a Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) error and a Service Control Manager error related to a “NEWDRIVER” service. We will explore the causes, solutions, and implications of these errors, empowering you to effectively address them and ensure a smooth-running system.

Understanding the WMI Error (Event ID 10)

The WMI error, typically identified as Event ID 10, often manifests with the following message:

Event filter with query “SELECT * FROM __InstanceModificationEvent WITHIN 60 WHERE TargetInstance ISA “Win32_Processor” AND TargetInstance.LoadPercentage > 99″ could not be reactivated in namespace “//./root/CIMV2” because of error 0x80041003. Events cannot be delivered through this filter until the problem is corrected.

This error arises from a known issue stemming from the Windows 7 SP1 DVD/ISO creation process. A specific WMI registration, intended solely for the creation process, erroneously persists on the live system. This lingering registration attempts to execute but fails, generating the Event ID 10 error. While this error doesn’t signify a critical system malfunction, it can clutter the Event Viewer logs and potentially obscure more significant issues.

Resolving the WMI Error

Microsoft offers two primary methods to rectify this WMI error: a FixIt tool and a manual script. The FixIt tool automates the process, while the manual script provides a more hands-on approach. Since the FixIt tool is no longer readily available, the manual script remains a reliable solution.

Manual Script Solution

1. Create the Script: Open Notepad and create a new file named Workaround.txt. Copy and paste the following VBScript code into the file:

strComputer = "."
Set objWMIService = GetObject("winmgmts:{impersonationLevel=impersonate}!\" & strComputer & "rootsubscription")
Set obj1 = objWMIService.ExecQuery("select * from __eventfilter where name='BVTFilter' and query='SELECT * FROM __InstanceModificationEvent WITHIN 60 WHERE TargetInstance ISA ""Win32_Processor"" AND TargetInstance.LoadPercentage > 99'")
For Each obj1elem in obj1
  set obj2set = obj1elem.Associators_("__FilterToConsumerBinding")
  set obj3set = obj1elem.References_("__FilterToConsumerBinding")
  For each obj2 in obj2set
    WScript.echo "Deleting the object"
    WScript.echo obj2.GetObjectText_
    obj2.Delete_
  next
  For each obj3 in obj3set
    WScript.echo "Deleting the object"
    WScript.echo obj3.GetObjectText_
    obj3.Delete_
  next
  WScript.echo "Deleting the object"
  WScript.echo obj1elem.GetObjectText_
  obj1elem.Delete_
Next

2. Save the Script: Save the file as Workaround.vbs, ensuring the file type is VBScript.

3. Run the Script: Open an elevated command prompt by searching for “cmd” in the Start Menu, right-clicking on “Command Prompt,” and selecting “Run as administrator.” Navigate to the directory containing the Workaround.vbs file using the cd command. Execute the script by typing cscript workaround.vbs and pressing Enter.

Addressing the “NEWDRIVER” Service Error

The “NEWDRIVER” service error typically appears as:

The NEWDRIVER service failed to start due to the following error: The system cannot find the file specified.

This error indicates a registered service named “NEWDRIVER” lacks the necessary files for execution. Since the absence of these files doesn’t typically impede system functionality, removing the service registration is a safe and effective solution.

Removing the “NEWDRIVER” Service

1. Open Elevated Command Prompt: Follow the steps outlined previously to open an elevated command prompt.

2. Delete the Service: Use the Service Control (sc) command to delete the “NEWDRIVER” service by typing sc delete NEWDRIVER and pressing Enter.

Understanding Event Viewer and Its Importance

Event Viewer serves as a centralized repository for system events, providing valuable insights into system behavior and potential issues. Regularly reviewing Event Viewer logs can help preemptively identify and address problems before they escalate. Event Viewer categorizes events into various logs, including Application, System, Security, and Setup, enabling targeted analysis.

Best Practices for Using Event Viewer

To maximize the effectiveness of Event Viewer, consider the following best practices:

• Regular Monitoring: Periodically review Event Viewer logs to identify recurring errors or patterns.
• Filtering and Sorting: Utilize Event Viewer’s filtering and sorting capabilities to focus on specific event types or timeframes.
• Researching Error Codes: Look up unfamiliar error codes online to gain a deeper understanding of their underlying causes and potential solutions.
• Clearing Logs: Periodically clear Event Viewer logs to improve performance and maintain a manageable size. However, exercise caution and avoid clearing logs immediately after troubleshooting an issue, as they might be needed for further analysis.

FAQ: Common Questions about Event Viewer Errors

Q: Are Event Viewer errors always critical?

A: No, not all Event Viewer errors signify critical issues. Some errors are informational or warnings, while others indicate minor glitches. It’s crucial to understand the severity of each error before taking action.

Q: Can I disable Event Viewer?

A: While technically possible, disabling Event Viewer is generally not recommended. Disabling Event Viewer hinders troubleshooting and prevents the system from logging important events.

Q: How often should I clear Event Viewer logs?

A: There is no set timeframe for clearing logs. Clearing them periodically helps maintain performance and manageability.

Q: Where can I find more information about specific Event Viewer errors?

A: Online resources, such as Microsoft’s support website and various tech forums, offer detailed information and potential solutions for specific Event Viewer errors.

We encourage you to share your questions and experiences in the comments below to foster a collaborative learning environment. Your contributions can help others facing similar challenges and contribute to a richer understanding of Event Viewer and its role in maintaining system health.