How to Fix a Generic Host Process for Win32 Services That Has Encountered a Problem & Needs to Close

Microsoft reports that for people who now use or at one time used certain specific models of Hewlett-Packard printers with any version of Windows, a failure in the software drivers for that printer can cause the error message "Generic host process for Win32 services has encountered a problem and needs to close...we are sorry for the inconvenience" when you open your Start menu and attemp to click on "Computer" (Windows 7 and Vista) or "My Computer" (XP and older). Luckily, this is a problem that can be typically resolved on your own in just a few basic steps, and without needing to consult Microsoft support.

Instructions

1. Shut down your computer by clicking the "Start" menu and clicking either "Turn off Computer" or the power button icon, depending on which version of Windows you are using. With the computer off, disconnect the USB or other type of connection cable that attaches the printer to the computer.

2. Power the computer back on and allow it to fully reboot to the desktop.

3. Insert the drivers CD that came with your printer and reinstall the drivers. As noted, this error message is typically a result of corrupted software drivers for an HP printer, so after reinstalling the drivers, again attempt to open "Computer" or "My Computer" and see if you get the same error message.

References

• Microsoft Support: Generic Host Process for Win32 Error

Resources

• Microsoft Support: Generic Host Process for Win32 Error