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Runtime Error 91 (How to Fix It on Windows?)

Ian Lexner
Fix
Question asked by:

Kelly G.

Issue:

I had an error "Runtime error 91. This program can't start"

Hi,

when trying to access excel I got an error saying "Runtime error 91" or something like that.
Can you please explain about it and help me solve it?

Thank you.

Solved issue
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How to Fix Runtime Error 91 Banner

There are many errors encountered on Windows and one of them is the Runtime Error 91: Object variable or with block variable not set. This error occurs on all versions of Windows-based operating systems and it Is a relatively common error. In addition, the main culprit behind is the DCOMCnfg.exe file, which is often used to configure permissions and set system-wide security settings. Moreover, this error is a very common technical error that can often be encountered by beginners and even experienced programmers.

Remember that when a file is corrupted or when some other issues occur, the program will not work properly. Because of this, the Runtime Error 91 pops up on the screen. But there are other reasons for the issue to be encountered. We have to explore all possible methods which could help in fixing the runtime error 91.

If you know, there are different scenarios when the Runtime Error 91 can show up, such as during program installation, startup operation, or a shutdown, although some users may also see the error when they upgrade their Windows to a newer version.

How to fix run time error

In case that the runtime error 91 occurs after program installation, it is because of the problems with a link to the downloaded software. Some runtime error 91 appears when the link is missing or interrupted. The error is commonly followed by the Error 59999 – Application-defined or object-defined error.

If you notice, the latter error might occur when generating a report to XML/Enhanced XML and is caused by insufficient permissions on the FRxXMLTag.XML file in the FRx directory. To remedy the error, you have to fix the file.

Now let’s dive deeper and check how we can fix that runtime error.

Option #1: Automatically Fix the Runtime Error 91 (Scan Your PC)

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The malware can cause too many issues on your computer and could also corrupt multiple files in relation to either system or program files. With that said, malware can be one of the factors why you are facing the runtime error 91. In making sure that this is not the case, you should scan the computer with reputable anti-malware software. Keep in mind that there are plenty of paid and free third-party anti-malware solutions available online. In case you do not have software in mind, use our recommended iolo System Mechanic to perform a full system scan in order to make sure no malicious files are present.

You can also use the built-in Windows Defender. To do so

  1. Click on system tray arrow then double-click the Windows Security icon
  2. Select Virus and threat protection
  3. Choose the Scan options 
  4. Click on the Full scan option and click Scan now
Windows Security

Option #2: Reinstallation of the Problem-Caused Application To Fix the Runtime Error 91

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There are issues with variables which might be caused by the corruption of file. To fix corrupted data in the system files, the users could run a built-in SFC scan. But, the method will not work if the files corrupted are not existing on Windows but the external application. Try to do a reinstallation of the problematic app causing Runtime Error 91. To do so:

  1. Go to Control Panel
  2. Go to Programs > Uninstall a program
  3. From the list, select the app, right-click and select Uninstall
  4. After the uninstallation, re-install the app and see if that helps to fix Runtime Error 91 
Control Panel

Option #3: Run the Latest Windows Update

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The Runtime Error 91 might be related to .NET Framework and Visual Basic, updates for which are applied via Windows updates. To do the Windows update: 

  1. Go to Start then Settings
  2. Select Update & Security
  3. Click Check for updates
  4. Wait for the downloads and installation
  5. Reboot your computer
Windows Update

Option #4: Enable DCOMCnfg.exe to run by “Everyone”

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  1. Type the DCOMCnfg.exe into Windows search box
  2. Check the Component Services window then go to Component Services > Computers > My Computer
  3. Right click on My Computer then select Properties
  4. Select COM Security tab
  5. Click Edit Limits
  6. Choose Everyone from the groups then set Local and Remote Access to Allow
Component Services

Option #4: Full Control of FRxXMLTag.XML file

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In case that the Runtime Error 91 is followed by the Error 5999, do the following steps:

  1. Run Windows as administrator
  2. In Windows Explorer browse to FRx directory
  3. Right-click on the FRxXMLTag.XML file and select Properties
  4. When in Properties, click the Security Tab
  5. In Security Tab, add the group Everyone and select Full Control
  6. Select OK

Conclusion and Last Tips

We hope that this guide solved your Runtime Error 91 issue.
If not, we recommend downloading and running a scan with iolo System Mechanic, to make sure your issue or any malware is removed.
In addition, don’t forget to do regular backups of your important files, and follow the best online security practices.

About the author
Ian Lexner photo
Ian Lexner - PC & Mac repair expert
Ian is the editor on BestPCTips.com. He has been involved with PCs since he was a teenager. He has experience in software development, computer hardware, virus removals & other security stuff. Currently, his main job and hobby, at the same time, is to help others to deal with various computer-related issues. Whether it's viruses, spyware, all sorts of errors and "bugs" -- Ian and BestPCTips.com are here to help.

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