How to Fix STOP 0x0000007E error in aec.sys

Updated By - March 17, 2008

The STOP 0x0000007E error involving aec.sys indicates that the problem lies with the aec.sys driver, which is associated with audio enhancement or echo cancellation functionality. This driver is often part of the audio drivers or related software.

Fix STOP 0x0000007E error in aec.sys

Here’s how you can fix the issue regarding the Stop 0x0000007E error:

  1. Update or Reinstall Audio Drivers:
    • Update Drivers:
      • Open Device Manager (search for it in the Start menu).
      • Locate the audio device (usually under "Sound, video and game controllers").
      • Right-click on the audio device and select "Update driver."
      • Choose "Search automatically for updated driver software."
    • Reinstall Drivers:
      • In Device Manager, right-click the audio device and choose "Uninstall device."
      • Restart your computer. Windows should automatically reinstall the drivers.
  2. Disable Audio Enhancements:
    • Open Control Panel and go to Sound.
    • Under the "Playback" tab, right-click on your default playback device and select "Properties."
    • Go to the "Enhancements" tab and check the box for "Disable all enhancements" or uncheck specific enhancements.
    • Click "Apply" and then "OK."
  3. Check for Windows Updates:
    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates. Ensure your system has the latest updates installed.
  4. Run System File Checker (SFC):
    • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
    • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This will check and repair corrupted system files.
  5. Perform a Clean Boot:
    • Open System Configuration by typing msconfig in the Run dialog (Win + R).
    • Go to the "Services" tab, check "Hide all Microsoft services," and then click "Disable all."
    • Go to the "Startup" tab and click "Open Task Manager."
    • Disable all startup items in Task Manager.
    • Restart your computer and see if the issue persists. If it doesn’t, you can re-enable services and startup items one by one to identify the cause.
  6. Check for Conflicting Software:
    • If you recently installed any new software related to audio or system optimization, it could be conflicting with aec.sys.
    • Uninstall any such software and check if the error persists.
  7. Perform a System Restore:
    • If the error started recently, use System Restore to revert your system to a previous state.
    • Go to Control Panel > System and Security > System > System Protection and choose System Restore.
  8. Update BIOS/Firmware:
    • Check the manufacturer’s website for your motherboard or laptop for BIOS/firmware updates. Follow their instructions for updating.

If the Stop 0x0000007E error continues after trying these steps, you may want to contact tech support for your hardware audio device or consider performing a clean install of Microsoft Windows, as a last resort.