How to Fix: Operation Did Not Finish Successfully [Virus/PUP]

Encountering the “Operation Did Not Complete Successfully” error can be alarming, especially when it’s related to a virus or potentially unwanted program (PUP). This guide provides several methods to troubleshoot and resolve this issue effectively.

Understanding the Error

This error message typically appears when your system detects a virus or PUP, which might prevent certain operations from completing. It is crucial to address this issue immediately to ensure your system’s security and functionality.

1. Run a Full System Scan with Windows Security

Windows Security, formerly known as Windows Defender, is a built-in antivirus tool that can help detect and remove viruses and PUPs.

Steps:

1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Security.
3. Click on Virus & threat protection.
4. Under the Current threats section, click Scan options.
5. Select Full scan and click Scan now.

2. Use Malwarebytes to Remove PUPs

Malwarebytes is a popular anti-malware tool known for its effectiveness in removing PUPs and other malicious software.

Steps:

1. Download and install Malwarebytes from the official website.
2. Open Malwarebytes and click Scan to start a full system scan.
3. Once the scan is complete, review the detected threats and click Quarantine to remove them.
4. Restart your computer.

3. Remove Suspicious Programs Manually

Sometimes, PUPs are installed alongside legitimate software. Removing these suspicious programs manually can help resolve the error.

Steps:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Apps > Apps & features.
3. Scroll through the list and look for any programs you don’t recognize or didn’t install.
4. Select the suspicious program and click Uninstall.

4. Clear Browser Cache and Remove Extensions

PUPs often integrate into your browser as extensions or hijack your browser settings. Clearing the cache and removing unwanted extensions can help.

Steps:

1. Open your browser (e.g., Google Chrome).
2. Click on the three dots in the upper-right corner and go to More tools > Clear browsing data.
3. Select All time in the time range dropdown.
4. Check Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.
5. Click Clear data.

To remove unwanted extensions:

1. Go to More tools > Extensions.
2. Identify and remove any suspicious extensions by clicking Remove.

5. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can contribute to the error. Running SFC and DISM can help repair these files.

Steps:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator: Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. After the scan completes, type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter.

6. Reset Your Browser Settings

If the error persists after clearing cache and removing extensions, resetting your browser to its default settings can help.

Steps:

1. Open your browser (e.g., Google Chrome).
2. Click on the three dots in the upper-right corner and go to Settings.
3. Scroll down and click Advanced.
4. Under the Reset and clean up section, click Restore settings to their original defaults.
5. Confirm by clicking Reset settings.

7. Update Windows and Security Software

Keeping your system and security software updated is essential for protecting against the latest threats.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you should be able to fix the “Operation Did Not Complete Successfully” error related to viruses or PUPs. Regularly updating your system and performing security scans can help prevent such issues in the future.