0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT Windows Error [FIXED]

Imagine this scenario: you’re working on an important project, and just as you’re about to complete it, you encounter a frustrating error on your Windows computer. Files are not transferring correctly, and a message pops up on your screen, saying “The semaphore timeout period has expired.” You try to troubleshoot the issue on your own, but nothing seems to work. The clock is ticking, and you’re running out of options.

This is a common experience for many Windows users who encounter the 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT Windows Error. It’s a technical issue that occurs when there is a network connection problem during file transfers. The error can be caused by various factors, such as network slowness, issues with VPN services like Hamachi, or problems with network adapters.

But don’t worry, there is a solution. In this article, we’ll guide you through the troubleshooting steps to fix the 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT and get your files transferring smoothly again. From running SFC and DISM scans to updating your wireless network adapters, we’ll cover everything you need to know to resolve this frustrating issue.

Key Takeaways:

  • 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT is a common Windows error that occurs during file transfers.
  • The error can be caused by network slowness, VPN issues, or problems with network adapters.
  • To resolve the error, you can run SFC and DISM scans, disable your antivirus and firewall temporarily, update your wireless network adapters, and check the file system settings on your external devices.
  • By following these troubleshooting steps, you can fix the 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT and prevent it from happening again.
  • Remember to keep your drivers and security software up to date to minimize the chances of encountering this error in the future.

How to Run SFC and DISM Scans

One of the first steps you can take to resolve the 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT Windows Error is to run SFC (System File Checker) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) scans. These scans will check for and repair any damaged, missing, or corrupt files that could be causing the error.

To run the SFC scan, open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type “sfc /scannow” without quotes. This command will initiate the scan and automatically repair any issues found. Be patient as the scan may take some time to complete.

Next, you can run the DISM scan to further troubleshoot and fix the semaphore timeout error. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type “DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth” without quotes. This command will scan your system files, retrieve healthy ones from the Windows Update server, and replace any corrupted files.

Wait for the scans to complete and follow any on-screen instructions to resolve the error. It is important to note that you may be required to restart your computer after completing these scans for the changes to take effect.

Running SFC and DISM scans is a recommended first step in troubleshooting the 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT Windows Error. These scans can help identify and fix file-related issues that may be causing the semaphore timeout error.

“Running SFC and DISM scans is a simple yet effective way to troubleshoot and fix common Windows errors. By checking and repairing damaged or corrupt files, you can resolve issues like the semaphore timeout error and improve overall system stability.”

How to Disable Your Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily

If you’re facing the 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT Windows Error, one potential solution is to temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall software. These security programs can sometimes interfere with file transfers and cause the semaphore timeout error to occur. Here’s how you can disable them:

Disable Antivirus

  1. Open the Windows Security settings.
  2. Navigate to Virus & Threat Protection.
  3. Toggle off the Real-Time Protection setting.

Disable Firewall

  1. Open the Windows Defender Firewall settings.
  2. Select the appropriate network type.
  3. Choose to turn off the firewall.

Remember to re-enable your antivirus and firewall after troubleshooting the error to ensure the ongoing protection of your system.

Pros and Cons of Disabling Antivirus and Firewall

ProsCons
  • May resolve the semaphore timeout error.
  • Temporarily stops interference with file transfers.
  • Leaves your system vulnerable to malware and cyber threats.
  • Disrupts overall system security.
  • Requires re-enabling to restore protection.

How to Update Your Wireless Network Adapters

Updating your wireless network adapters can play a crucial role in resolving the 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT Windows Error. Outdated or faulty network adapter drivers often lead to connectivity issues, contributing to the semaphore timeout error. A simple solution is to update your network adapter drivers.

To start, open the Device Manager on your Windows computer. You can do this by right-clicking on the Start button and selecting “Device Manager” from the menu. Alternatively, you can press the Windows key + X and choose “Device Manager” from the list.

Once the Device Manager window appears, locate the “Network Adapters” category and expand it. Right-click on your wireless network adapter and select “Update Driver” from the context menu.

A new window will appear, presenting you with two options. Choose the option to “Search automatically for updated driver software.” This allows Windows to scan for the latest drivers from the internet and install them on your system.

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the driver update process. It may take a few moments for Windows to find and install the appropriate drivers for your wireless network adapter.

Once the update is complete, restart your computer to apply the changes. After rebooting, test if the semaphore timeout error persists when transferring files. Updating your wireless network adapters can significantly enhance the stability and performance of your network connection, effectively resolving the 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT Windows Error.

Example Scenario:

You’re experiencing the frustrating 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT Windows Error when attempting to transfer files between devices on your network. After following previous troubleshooting steps without success, you decide to update your wireless network adapters. By ensuring you have the latest drivers, you can eliminate any connectivity issues caused by outdated or faulty software. Let’s walk through the process of updating your wireless network adapters step by step.

StepDescription
1Right-click on the Start button or press the Windows key + X to open the Quick Access menu. From the list, choose “Device Manager.”
2In the Device Manager window, locate the “Network Adapters” category and expand it.
3Right-click on your wireless network adapter and select “Update Driver” from the context menu.
4In the Driver Update window, choose the option to “Search automatically for updated driver software.”
5Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the driver update process.
6Restart your computer to apply the changes.

By following these steps, you have successfully updated your wireless network adapters. Give your computer a fresh start by rebooting, and test if the 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT Windows Error is resolved during file transfers. Ensuring your network adapters have the latest drivers can rectify connectivity issues and provide a seamless file transfer experience.

Conclusion

The 0x00000079 ERROR_SEM_TIMEOUT Windows Error can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue and prevent it from occurring in the future. By running SFC and DISM scans, disabling your antivirus and firewall temporarily, updating your wireless network adapters, and checking the file system settings on your external devices, you can address the underlying causes of the semaphore timeout error. Remember to always keep your drivers and security software up to date to minimize the chances of encountering this error.

Nilesh Kamble is Certified in Microsoft & GCP, having 13+ Years of Experience in IT Industry. As a Senior IT Employee, having vast experience on Windows Server, Windows Client, Powershell, Cloud Technologies. Passionate about Laptop, Mobiles & Other emerging Technologies.