Medium
Operating Systems
✓ Solution Verified by Community (0+ upvotes)
How to fix error 0x80070542 in Windows 11
ERROR_ILLEGAL_FUNCTION: Illegal function call.
Fix based on community reports and expert analysis. Last verified: 2026-08-13
· How we verify fixes
| Error Code | 0x80070542 |
|---|---|
| Affected System | Windows 11 (Microsoft) |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Estimated Time | 20 min |
| Requires Admin Rights | ⚠️ Yes |
Solution Steps
- 1 Identify the exact program or action that causes the error. Note the error message and when it appears.
- 2 Run the program in compatibility mode: Right-click the program's shortcut, select Properties → Compatibility tab, and check 'Run this program in compatibility mode for' and choose an older Windows version (like Windows 8 or 7). Apply and try again.
- 3 Update the driver for the device involved: Press Windows key + X and select 'Device Manager'. Find the device (e.g., printer, graphics card), right-click it, and select 'Update driver' → 'Search automatically for drivers'. Windows will find and install the latest driver.
- 4 If the error is related to a service, check if it's disabled: Press Windows key + R, type 'services.msc', and press Enter. Look for the service related to the program (e.g., Print Spooler for printers). Right-click it, select Properties, and set Startup type to 'Automatic', then click Start.
- 5 Run the program as administrator: Right-click the program and select 'Run as administrator'. This gives it the necessary permissions to perform the function.
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