Solutions for Fixing SYSTEM_UNWIND_PREVIOUS_USER Error (0x0000003A)

Step 1: Update Your Outdated Drivers

Begin by updating any drivers that may be causing conflicts.

1. Press Windows + R to access the Run console.
2. Type devmgmt.msc and hit OK to open the Device Manager.
3. Inspect each category; if a component shows a yellow triangle icon, right-click it and choose Update driver.
4. Select Search automatically for drivers on the next prompt.
5. Follow the on-screen prompts to finish the installation.

Pro Tip: If Windows cannot locate an updated driver, consider using a third-party updater or visiting the manufacturer’s site.

Step 2: Conduct an Offline Scan with Windows Defender

To identify potential malware infections, perform an offline scan.

1. Press the Windows key, search for windows security, and open it.
2. Navigate to Virus & threat protection and choose Scan options.
3. Select Microsoft Defender Antivirus (offline scan) and click Scan now.
4. Wait patiently while the scan completes.

Step 3: Uninstall Unwanted Applications

Remove any applications you no longer need, which could conflict with system processes.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Select Apps, then click on Installed apps.
3. Find the unwanted program, click the three-dot icon next to it, and choose Uninstall.
4. Follow the instructions to complete the uninstallation.

Step 4: Disable Fast Startup

Disabling this feature can prevent issues with system initialization.

1. Press the Windows key, type control panel, and open it.
2. Switch the view to Large icons and select Power Options.
3. Choose Choose what the power button does from the left sidebar.
4. Click on Change settings that are currently unavailable.
5. Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended) and click Save changes.

Step 5: Uninstall Recent Windows Updates in Safe Mode

Step 5.1: Boot into Safe Mode

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to System and select Recovery.
3. Click Restart now under Advanced startup.
4. When the screen appears, choose Troubleshoot.
5. Then, select Advanced options.
6. Choose Startup Settings and then click Restart.
7. Press the number corresponding to Safe mode with networking when prompted.

Step 5.2: Remove Recent Windows Updates

1. Press Windows + I to access Settings again.
2. Navigate to Windows Update and select Update history.
3. Scroll down to click Uninstall updates.
4. Find and select the most recent update, then click Uninstall to proceed.

Step 6: Execute a System Restore

If issues persist, restoring your system can return it to a previous state.

1. Open the Run console by pressing Windows + R.
2. Type rstrui and click OK to launch the System Restore interface.
3. Click Next to proceed.
4. Select a restore point from the list and click Next.
5. Finally, press Finish to start the restoration process.

What does the SYSTEM_UNWIND_PREVIOUS_USER error mean?

Can outdated drivers cause this error?