The Invalid Handle error is a common issue in Windows 10. It usually occurs when new updates are added to the Windows but they aren’t completely installed leading to OS corruption. When the user tries to log into Windows 10, they get an error message saying, the handle is invalid.
The error message means that the user cannot sign into their Windows account.
ST Cleaner is a digitally signed, verified software
But don’t worry as the problem is not grievous. In fact, various workarounds exist to solve it. Here is a list of the best ones.
- Hold Shift and Restart
One way to flush down the password is by restarting the system while pressing the Shift button. This will take you to the Safe Mode option in Windows. Now go to Control Panel | Programs and Features | View installed updates.Uninstall the KB3135173 and KB3124262 Windows 10 updates. Now restart your computer.Note: If you recently installed any other update and the same error is showing up, then simply uninstall it. - Remove Password through CMD
Another way to solve the Invalid Handle error is to remove the password via Command Prompt.- Press Windows Key + R and then type CMD to start the Run command box
- Now type net user Username NewPassword in Command Prompt
- Press Enter
Note: If you want to remove the password, then replace NewPassword with *.
- Repair Your Computer
Another way to solve the Invalid Handle error is to perform a computer repair.- First, insert the installation DVD or USB and boot your computer from it. Now, go to Windows setup and select Language to install.
- Select Time and currency format and then click Keyboard or input method.
- Now click Next.
- Click Repair your computer | Troubleshoot.
- In the next window, click on Advanced options | Automatic Repair to launch the repair process.
- Chkdsk Drive
Another option is to check the whole disk for corruption and errors by running the following command.Please note that by selecting this option you can lose data. So, it is essential to back up everything before you start this process.Repeat the steps that we have provided in the last solution (Repair your Computer). When you reach Advanced options, instead of opting for Automatic Repair, click on Command Prompt.Now run the following commands:Chkdsk /f /r X: (Here X is the Drive Letter) – Now press Enter.
Press Y on the next prompt to confirm the check of the entire disk. It will ask you to restart the system.
- Shutdown while pressing Shift + Power Key
Another way to solve the Invalid Handle error is by shutting down the entire system while pressing Shift + Power key. When the screen turns black and power turns off, only then release the Shift key and the Power button. Now restart the system again and let Windows add new updates. When you press the Shift key during shutdown, the computer re-installs the new updates, fixing any corrupt files. - Add Account to Local Administrators Group
Another option is to go to Command Prompt and enter the following command:net user [name] /addNow press Enter. Now, type:net localgroup administrators [name] /addPress Enter again to add the user account to the Local Administrators Group. Now restart your computer and login with that username.
- Invalid Handle Error on Windows on a VMware
Another reason the Invalid Handle error can occur is when your Windows is installed on a VMware. For example, the Windows Virtual Desktop (Citrix VDA 7.6.300) can also cause this problem. The only solution to solve it is by booting into Safe Mode and uninstalling all incompatible Security Updates referenced above and reboot the machine to normal mode. More info can be found here.
That’s it. These are some of the ways in which you can solve the Invalid Handle error easily. Good Luck!