How to Fix the Microsoft Defender Runtime Error Code 1297

Microsoft Defender (previously called Windows Defender) is a proven protection tool to prevent malware and cyber attacks. However, the program often crashes with error code 1297. When this happens, the tool becomes inaccessible, leaving the device at risk.

But there’s nothing to worry about; here are all the solutions to eliminate Microsoft Defender runtime error 1297.

What Causes the Microsoft Defender Runtime Error 1297?

Below are all the common reasons behind the Microsoft Defender runtime error 1297.

1. One of the primary reasons behind the error message is the third-party antivirus program installed on the system.
2. The error message can pop up if you use an outdated Windows version.
3. Corrupt or outdated graphics drivers can also cause the Runtime Error 1297.

Now that you are aware of different reasons causing the issue let’s check out how to fix it.

1. Download the Latest Windows Update

Microsoft rolls out Windows updates to eliminate minor bugs and improve the overall system performance. So, you will have to download the latest update to get rid of the system issue.

Here’s how.

1. Open Settings using Win + I.
2. Choose Windows Update from the left pane.
3. Click on Check for Updates.

That’s it. Windows will not check for and download any pending updates. Once the upgrade process is complete, reboot the system and check for the problem.

2. Uninstall Any Third-Party Antivirus Applications

After the addition of sandboxing tools and cloud-based malware detection, Microsoft Defender has become more reliable than most antivirus programs. Additionally, these third-party security programs can interfere with Microsoft Defender and throw the error in question.

So, to avoid any problems, it’s best to uninstall the third-party antivirus program and use Microsoft Defender. Here’s how you can uninstall the application.

1. Open Control Panel using one of the many ways to open control panel in Windows 11.
2. Click on the View by drop-down menu and choose Small items from the context menu.
3. Choose Programs and Features.
4. Right-click on the third-party antivirus program and choose Uninstall from the context menu.

Next, reboot the system, and run the Microsoft Defender scan. Check if you are still facing the problem. If yes, try the next solution on the list.

3. Update the Graphics Driver

The Microsoft Defender runtime error 1297 can result from corrupt or outdated graphics drivers as well. You will have to update the graphics driver to get rid of the issue. Here’s how to do it.

1. Press Win + X and choose Device Manager from the context menu.
2. Double click on Display adapters to expand the option.
3. Right-click on the installed driver and choose Update Driver from the menu.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

Windows will now detect the best available driver and install it on the system.

4. Repair Any Corrupt or Missing System Files

The problem in the discussion can result from corrupt or missing system files. In this case, you can run DISM, and SFC scans to fix the issue. Here’s how.

1. Open Command Prompt with admin rights.
2. Type the following command and press Enter.

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth

3. Wait until the command is executed.
4. Type the following command and press Enter.

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

5. Restart the system and open Command Prompt in administrator mode again.
6. Type the following command and press Enter.

   sfc /scannow

Command Prompt will take a few seconds to run the commands successfully.

5. Reset Windows

In the worst-case scenario, if you are still facing the problem, consider resetting the Windows. You can do it by following the below steps.

1. Open Settings.
2. Choose Recovery under the System tab.
3. Click on Reset PC.

Next, follow the on-screen instructions to reset Windows.

Keep the System Safe With Microsoft Defender

With the addition of new features, Microsoft Defender has become more superior and trustworthy than most antivirus programs. But if you face runtime error 1297 on using Microsoft Defender, consider trying the above solution.