How to Fix the “An Attempt Was Made to Reference a Token” Error in Windows 11/10
Windows includes numerous pre-installed apps and tools like File Explorer, Device Manager, and Microsoft Management Console users often need to access. However, some users have reported they can’t access those pre-installed apps or others because of an error that says, “an attempt was made to reference a token that does not exist.” That error pops up when some users strive to open Explorer or other native tools.
Sign up forfree
Forgot your password?
Create an account
*Required: 8 chars, 1 capital letter, 1 number
By continuing, you agree to thePrivacy PolicyandTerms of Use.You also agree to receive our newsletters, you can opt-out any time.
1. End and Restart File Explorer
If the “reference a token” error occurs when you try to access File Explorer or folders, try restarting the Explorer process. Some users who’ve needed to fix the token reference error have said ending that Windows Explorer process and starting it again worked for them. you may end and restart Explorer as follows:
2. Reregister Windows DLL Files
Users who’ve needed to fix the “reference a token” error have confirmed reregistering the Windows DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files works. That highlights the token reference error can occur because some Windows DLL files aren’t correctly registered. This is how you can reregister Windows DLL files:
3. Try Some More Generic Windows Fixes
If nothing has worked, try these Windows fixes that can fix a wide variety of errors, including this one.
Scan and Repair System Files With SFC
The “reference a token” error is often a result of corrupted Windows system files. So, repairing system files is a likely potential solution for that error. You can check for and repair corrupted system files byrunning the System File Checker toolwithin the Command Prompt.
Go Back to a Previous Windows Build Version
If the “reference a token” error occurs after a recent Windows feature update, restoring the previous build version might resolve that issue. However, you can only restore a previous build version for a limited period. This is how you can restore a previous Windows build version:
If that option is grayed out, you can also try restoring the previous Windows build from theAdvanced optionsmenu. Open recovery options in Settings as outlined in steps one and two above and clickRestartnow. Then selectTroubleshoot>Advancedoptions and theGo backto previous buildoption if available.
Go Back to a Previous Restore Point
System Restore is another tool that can resolve system file issues causing the “reference a token” error, but only if you have that utility enabled on your PC. If there’s a suitable restore point on your PC, you could roll back Windows to a previous point in time that predates the token reference error. Doing so might undo updates and other system changes that triggered the issue.
To apply this resolution, check out ourarticle about creating and utilizing restore points. Choose a restore point that will roll Windows back to when you didn’t need to fix the token reference error. However, note that a system restore point will remove software packages installed after its date.
Reset Windows
Resetting Windows 11/10 is a last resort for fixing the “reference a token” error that will probably work. It’s best to save this probable resolution until last because you’ll need to reinstall all third-party UWP and desktop apps installed before the reset. You can apply this possible resolution as instructed within method one of ourhow to factory reset Windowsguide.
Get the “Reference a Token” Error Sorted Out
The “reference a token” error is serious when users can’t access essential native apps like File Explorer because of it. In many cases, corrupted Windows files are usually the culprit. Most of the resolutions in this guide will address that cause, and restarting File Explorer can also work when the issue affects that app or folders.
You don’t need to download tools to give your PC a scan. Windows comes pre-installed with these handy tools you can use at any time.
My foolproof plan is to use Windows 10 until 2030, with the latest security updates.
Not Linux, not Windows. Something better.
Obsidian finally feels complete.
The key is not to spook your friends with over-the-top shenanigans.
Unlock a world of entertainment possibilities with this clever TV hack.
