How to Fix “Can Not Find Script File” Startup Error?

If you’re seeing the error message “Cannot Find Script File” during startup, know that you’re not alone. This error is a fairly common issue experienced by Windows users and can often be alarming due to its sudden appearance. While it may initially suggest something critically wrong with your system, in most cases it’s a sign of a missing or incorrect script file associated with either a scheduled task, a startup program, or, in more serious circumstances—malware remnants.

TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)

The “Cannot Find Script File” startup error is typically caused by a missing or misplaced script file that Windows tries to execute during startup. It could be due to malware that was poorly removed, user error, or corrupted registry entries. To fix this, check your startup folder, clean your system with antivirus software, and use built-in Windows tools like Task Scheduler and the Registry Editor. Most issues can be resolved using these methods without reinstalling Windows.

Common Causes of the “Cannot Find Script File” Error

This error typically originates from one of the following sources:

• Malware infection: Many viruses deploy scripts that run on startup. If your antivirus removed the script but not the startup call, you’ll get this error.
• User-deleted scripts: If you’ve removed a script file that was configured to run on startup, the system may attempt to execute it regardless.
• Invalid Task Scheduler entries: A scheduled task might still be pointing to a non-existent file.
• Corrupted registry keys: The Windows Registry might be calling nonexistent scripts during startup.

Step-by-Step Fixes You Can Try

Below is a series of effective methods to identify and resolve the source of the issue. Follow them in order for best results.

1. Check the Full Error Message Path

The dialog box usually includes the full path to the script file it’s trying to locate. Take a moment to write down or copy this path. Understanding which script can’t be found is the first step to fixing it.

For example, you might see:

C:\Users\YourName\AppData\Roaming\script.vbs

This tells you that the system is looking for a Visual Basic script in your roaming profile. If you don’t recall installing such a script, it’s likely a remnant of malware or another service script.

2. Check the Windows Startup Folder

The traditional Startup folder can contain shortcuts to scripts. To access it:

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type shell:startup and press Enter.
3. Look for any suspicious or unknown shortcuts. If you find one pointing to the file in the error message, delete it.

3. Use Task Manager – Startup Tab

Another way to disable startup scripts is via Task Manager:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Startup tab.
3. Identify any unknown publisher or suspicious entries. Right-click and choose Disable.

4. Scan for Malware

It’s crucial to rule out malicious activity as the cause. Use a trusted antivirus or anti-malware tool like:

• Windows Defender (built-in with Windows)
• Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
• Kaspersky or Bitdefender (third-party)

Perform a full system scan to ensure any remnant infections are completely eradicated. Some malware might create a scheduled task or registry key that keeps trying to call the deleted script even after the file is removed.

5. Remove References in Task Scheduler

Sometimes a scheduled task remains even after the script or its parent application is deleted:

1. Open Start and search for Task Scheduler.
2. In the left-hand panel, browse through Task Scheduler Library.
3. Look for tasks with unfamiliar names or which reference the script file in question.
4. Right-click such tasks and choose Disable or Delete, if you’re sure they’re unnecessary.

6. Manually Clean the Registry (Advanced Users)

Warning: Modifying the registry can be dangerous. Back it up first by exporting it.

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to these keys and look for suspicious entries or those pointing to the missing script:
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
3. Delete any entry that references the script file mentioned in the error, but only if you’re 100% certain it’s unnecessary or malicious.

7. SFC and DISM – Repair Corrupt System Files

If you’re still having issues, try using built-in Windows utilities for repairing damaged or missing system files:

SFC (System File Checker)

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any repair instructions.

DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management)

1. In the same Command Prompt, type this command:
   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
2. Press Enter and allow the scan to finish.

Preventing This Error in the Future

Now that you’ve resolved the issue, it’s important to ensure it doesn’t come back. Here’s what you can do:

• Keep your antivirus updated: Real-time protection is essential.
• Avoid downloading unfamiliar scripts or executables: Not all downloads are safe—even those from seemingly legitimate sources.
• Regularly inspect your startup items and scheduled tasks: Make it a monthly routine.
• Backup your system: Create system restore points, or use full image backups so you can revert in case of future issues.

When to Seek Professional Help

If none of the above methods work for you, or if the problem keeps coming back after rebooting, it could indicate a deeper issue—either persistent malware or a significant system misconfiguration. In such scenarios:

• Consult a certified Windows technician or IT professional.
• Consider using a professional malware removal tool or service.
• As a last resort, consider resetting Windows or performing a clean installation.

Conclusion

While the “Cannot Find Script File” startup error can be frustrating and even alarming, it’s typically fixable with a systematic approach. Begin with identifying the missing file and then proceed through the steps of checking startup folders, Task Scheduler, the Registry, and performing malware scans. With careful assessment and action, your system can be restored to its normal, script-error-free startup routine.