Sometimes, when you try to fix the "Cannot read memory" error in Windows, other problems arise. For this reason, through this guide you will learn How to remove the "COM Surrogate stopped working" virus error in Windows 10, 8 and 7.
What is COM?
The term COM refers to Component Object Model (in Spanish, Component Object Model). COM is part of an interface created by Microsoft Windows, which allows the ability to create COM objects.
The purpose of these objects varies from program to program, however it could be said that it is a way to integrate one program with another extend its features. Windows makes extensive use of this interface, in fact, it is essential for the correct functioning of the operating system.
Thanks to these features, Windows threads are also executed. A clear example of this is the creation of image thumbnails. As you will see, it specifically refers to processes that run in "hidden" way.
What is COM Surrogate?
Now that we know what the COM interface is, it's time to learn about the COM Surrogate process. Certainly the functioning of this process is very interesting, in fact it is essential for the system stability.
COM Surrogate is used as backup object, starts with the original process, but externally. The goal of COM Surrogate is that if at any point the original application fails, the process that will be closed will not be the running App but COM Surrogate.
It is a way to do function correctly applications even after minor problems. For this reason, the process appears from time to time in the task manager and is rarely a problem for users.
COM Surrogate is included in dllhost.exe, hence it appears within this process. Although sometimes it is also shown as "COM Surrogate". When problems arise with these features, it is sometimes necessary to roll back Windows 10 and go back to an earlier version, but there are other alternatives you can try.
Remove the error "COM Surrogate has stopped working" in Windows 10, 8 and 7
Besides the basic methods to fix your Windows 10 PC without formatting, one of the usual ways to get rid of the 'COM Surrogate has stopped working' error is to use the tool Data Execution Prevention (DEP).
- To use this method, the first thing to do is to open the "Run" program. You can do this by pressing the key combination Windows + R or by looking directly into the start menu.
- Once the "Run" application has been successfully opened, you need to type "sysdm.cpl" and click OK. Next, you will be directed to System Properties.
- Here you should go up "Advanced options" and locate the "Performance" tab. You will see that there is the "Settings" option, click on it.
- The performance options will be displayed, go to the last tab at the top «Data Execution Prevention».
- Now you need to enable the option "Activate DEP for all programs and services except those I select".
- Click the Add button and locate the Dllhost.exe file. This file is located inside the System32 or SysWOW64 folder, depending on the operating system. When done, simply click Accept.
Disable thumbnails to remove COM Surrogate virus error
As we noted earlier, one of the features of COM Surrogate is the creation of thumbnails. That said, it is convenient to disable this function, which sometimes solves the problem.
- Go to any folder and locate the "File" tab at the top left of the folder.
- You will see the option "Change folder and search options", click on it to configure.
- In the folder options, go to the «View» tab. Here you will find the option "Always show icons, never thumbnails". Make sure the above option is checked and click OK.
If none of the above solutions work, you can try to repair Windows OS startup without formatting. In any case, if even after trying the above, nothing works, don't be afraid to install Windows from scratch, which is usually the solution to all problems.
