You get the DDE Server Window error if there is a conflict with an application or the Windows OS itself. So, before trying out any of the solutions mentioned, you should first ensure that you have the latest Windows updates installed on your system.
Now, considering that you have checked for the updates available for the OS, let us try out a few solutions that should do the trick.
1. Perform a System Scan
You may not find a lot of people recommending this command, but it is a very easy and simple fix. You just need to launch the command prompt as an administrator and then type in the following command:
SFC /SCANNOW
This will scan for any corrupt system files and automatically repair them. You do not have to do anything else – just wait for the verification to complete. It will take a few minutes to complete.
2. Check Startup Programs
You must be having a couple of programs that launch right after Windows boot. One of those startup services might be the culprit causing this issue when you try to shut down. So, you need to disable them temporarily and then try shutting down your system. Here’s how to do it:
- Search for “msconfig” and you will find System Configuration pop up as shown in the image below. Click on it.
- Now, under the “General” tab select “Diagnostic Startup” and then click “OK“.
If you are able to successfully shut down your system without the DDE Server Window error after performing the diagnostic startup- you need to individually check which one of the startup services when enabled is causing the issue.
3. Avoid Shutting down using the start menu
Some of the users noticed that they encounter this error only when they utilize the start menu to shut down their system. So, you need to consider a workaround, press Windows + X and then navigate to the shutdown option to perform a shutdown as shown in the image above.
If this does not work, you can launch the Run dialogue box by pressing Windows + R and then type in the following command:
shutdown /s
4. Tip: Disconnect your second monitor
If you happen to utilize two displays for your system, it is always advisable to disconnect your second monitor before shutting down. Of course, this is not a software-based solution- but it is somewhat helpful – if you have that kind of setup.
5. Reminder: Keep your Windows up-to-date
As mentioned earlier, you should definitely update your OS whenever an update is available. And, I will not recommend you to rely on Windows Insider builds to fix the issues you are facing.
Wrapping Up
Now that you know about the solutions to fix DDE Server Window error, you should have no problem shutting down your computer. If the above-mentioned solutions still did not help you, let us know in the comments section below.
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