Windows is a pretty straightforward operating system when it comes to ease of use. However, it isn’t uncommon to see unusual errors show up from time to time, which might not make sense to everyday users.
In this article, we’re talking about the “GDI+ Window preventing shutdown” error and giving you a few fixes to help solve the problem?
Why does the GDI+ Window error happen?
GDI or Graphics Device Interface lets the WYSIWYG approach taken by Windows so easy. GDI+ is just an enhanced version of that library. When you shut down your PC, all running applications must be closed before the PC can be turned off.Â
However, if GDI+ is still running in the background, it could stop your PC from shutting down, and that’s exactly what this error code means.
Also read: How to fix Windows installation error 0x80300024?
How to fix the GDI+ Window error?
Here are a few solutions to fix the GDI+ Window, preventing shutdown error.Â
Run the Power Troubleshooter
Windows comes with several built-in troubleshooters that help you instantly diagnose and fix several issues. Try running the power troubleshooter to see if that resolves your problem.
Step 1: Press the Windows key and search for Troubleshooter. Click the corresponding search result.
Step 2: Click Other Troubleshooters.
Step 3: Run the Power Troubleshooter.
Let the troubleshooter do its thing, and once your PC restarts, you hopefully won’t see the GDI+ Window preventing shutdown error again.Â
Run an SFC scan
Corrupt files are the number one reason your PC might behave weirdly. Here’s how you can get rid of them and potentially resolve your issue.
Step 1: Press Windows Key + S to bring up the Cortana/Search box and search for Powershell. Open Windows Powershell from the search results.
Step 2: Type sfc /scannow to scan your system for issues.
Step 3: If the SFC scan finds any problem, use the following command to resolve them.
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Restart your PC, and the error should be gone.
Perform a clean boot
To isolate the problem, perform a clean boot and then start the missing processes one at a time to find your culprit.
Step 1: Press the Windows key and search for System Configuration.
Step 2: Head over to the Services tab.
Step 3: Uncheck the Hide all Microsoft Services checkbox. Now click the Disable All button.
Step 4: Now head over to the Startup tab and click on Open Task Manager.
Step 5: Click the Startup tab again, select all the services and click the Disable button.
Now try running the SFC scan again, and hopefully, you won’t see the GDI+ Window preventing shutdown error this time around.
Repair your system
If nothing else works, the best way to get rid of the error is by simply reinstalling or repairing your OS.
The Windows Media Creation tool is a great way to install Windows and repair the OS. Using this, you can perform a clean installation or repair your OS without affecting your data.
You can download the Media Creation Tool here
Also read: How to sync clipboard across Android and Windows?
