How to Fix the Node20.exe Error on Shutdown: A Simple Guide

If you’ve ever seen a pesky “node20.exe error” pop up when you’re trying to shut down your Windows computer, you’re not alone. This frustrating issue can make your PC feel sluggish or unreliable, but the good news is that it’s usually fixable with a few straightforward steps. In this article, I’ll walk you through what the node20.exe error is, why it happens, and how you can resolve it in a way that’s easy to understand, even if you’re not a tech expert. By the end, you’ll have a clear plan to get your computer shutting down smoothly again.

What Is the Node20.exe Error?

Let’s start with the basics. The node20.exe file is part of the Node.js runtime environment, a tool that lets developers run JavaScript code outside of a web browser. It’s commonly used by software like Elgato Stream Deck, a popular device for streamers and content creators to control apps and plugins. The node20.exe process often runs in the background to support these plugins, such as the Volume Controller or other custom integrations.

The error typically appears as a pop-up message when you try to shut down or restart your Windows 10 or 11 PC. It might say something like:

• “node20.exe – Application Error: The application was unable to start correctly (0xc0000142).”

• Or a vague warning about node20.exe preventing shutdown.

This happens because the node20.exe process doesn’t close properly when your computer tries to shut down, causing Windows to flag it as an issue. While it’s annoying, it’s usually not harmful to your system, and it’s not a virus (though you should always scan for malware to be safe).

Why Does the Node20.exe Error Happen?

Understanding why this error occurs can help you prevent it in the future. Here are the most common reasons:

1. Outdated Stream Deck Software: If you’re using an older version of Elgato Stream Deck, it might not be fully compatible with your Windows version, leading to shutdown issues.

2. Faulty Plugins: Some Stream Deck plugins, like the Volume Controller or third-party ones (e.g., Advanced Launcher by BarRaider), may not terminate correctly, leaving node20.exe running.

3. Windows Compatibility Issues: Node20.exe might struggle with certain Windows settings, especially on newer versions like Windows 11.

4. Conflicting Background Services: Other programs or services running on your PC could interfere with node20.exe, causing it to hang during shutdown.

5. Separate Node.js Installation: If you’re a developer with Node.js installed for coding, it might conflict with the version bundled with Stream Deck.

Now that we know what’s causing the problem, let’s dive into how to fix it.

How to Fix the Node20.exe Error on Shutdown

I’ve broken this down into simple, step-by-step solutions, starting with the easiest and most effective fixes. Try them in order, and test shutting down your PC after each step to see if the error is gone.

Step 1: Update Your Stream Deck Software

The most common fix for the node20.exe error is updating your Elgato Stream Deck software to the latest version. Elgato regularly releases updates to improve compatibility and fix bugs, including shutdown issues.

How to do it:

1. Open the Settings app on your Windows PC (press Win + I).

2. Go to Apps > Installed Apps (Windows 11) or Apps & Features (Windows 10).

3. Find Elgato Stream Deck in the list, click it, and select Uninstall. Follow the prompts to remove it.

4. Visit the Elgato official website and download the latest Stream Deck software.

5. Install the new version and restart your computer.

6. Open the Stream Deck app, go to Settings > Firmware Update, and check for any firmware updates. Install them if available.

Why this works: Newer versions of Stream Deck often include fixes for plugin-related errors, ensuring node20.exe closes properly during shutdown.

Step 2: Disable or Remove Problematic Plugins

Certain Stream Deck plugins, especially the Volume Controller, are known to cause the node20.exe error. You can try disabling or removing them to see if that resolves the issue.

How to do it:

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to:
   C:\Program Files\Elgato\StreamDeck\node

2. Look for the node20.exe file. Instead of deleting it, rename it to something like node20old.exe. This prevents it from running without permanently removing it.

3. Restart the Stream Deck software. It may show an error if a plugin fails to load—note which plugin is affected.

4. To remove the Volume Controller plugin entirely:

   • Go to C:\Program Files\Elgato\StreamDeck\Distributables.

   • Find any files related to the Volume Controller and rename or delete them. This stops Stream Deck from reinstalling the plugin.

5. Restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Why this works: Renaming node20.exe or removing faulty plugins stops the problematic process from running, which can eliminate the shutdown error. Be aware that this might disable some Stream Deck features, so test your setup afterward.

Step 3: Adjust Compatibility Settings

If updating or removing plugins doesn’t work, the node20.exe file might not be fully compatible with your Windows version. Adjusting compatibility settings can help.

How to do it:

1. Navigate to C:\Program Files\Elgato\StreamDeck.

2. Find node20.exe and StreamDeck.exe. Right-click each, select Properties, and go to the Compatibility tab.

3. Check Run this program in compatibility mode for and select Windows 7 (or Windows 8 for Windows 11 users).

4. Click Apply, then OK.

5. For Windows 11, you can also use the msconfig tool:

   • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.

   • Go to the Startup tab, find StreamDeck.exe, and set its compatibility to Windows 8.

   • Click Apply and restart your PC.

Why this works: Compatibility mode forces the software to run as if it’s on an older version of Windows, which can resolve conflicts with newer system settings.

Step 4: Manage Background Services

Sometimes, other background services interfere with node20.exe. You can check and disable unnecessary services to reduce conflicts.

How to do it:

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.

2. Scroll through the list and look for services related to Elgato or Stream Deck.

3. Right-click any relevant service, select Properties, and set the Startup type to Disabled if it’s not essential. Alternatively, click Stop to halt it temporarily.

4. Restart your computer and test for the error.

Why this works: Stopping conflicting services frees up resources and prevents node20.exe from hanging during shutdown.

Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot

If the error persists, a clean boot can help identify if another program is causing the issue. This starts Windows with minimal drivers and startup programs.

How to do it:

1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.

2. In the General tab, select Selective startup and uncheck Load startup items.

3. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.

4. Click Apply, then OK, and restart your PC.

5. Test shutting down. If the error is gone, re-enable services one by one to find the culprit.

Why this works: A clean boot isolates the problem, letting you pinpoint any software conflicts with node20.exe.

Step 6: Scan for Malware

Though node20.exe is a legitimate file, malware can sometimes disguise itself as a trusted process. It’s worth ruling this out.

How to do it:

1. Open Windows Security (search for it in the Start menu

Why this works: A malware scan ensures that the node20.exe process isn’t being hijacked by malicious software, which could cause shutdown errors.

Step 7: Contact Elgato Support

If none of the above fixes work, it’s time to reach out to Elgato’s support team. They can provide specific advice or diagnostic tools to resolve the issue.

How to do it:

1. Visit the Elgato Support page.

2. Submit a ticket explaining the node20.exe error, including your Windows version, Stream Deck software version, and any steps you’ve tried.

3. Attach screenshots of the error message if possible.

Why this works: Elgato’s team may have access to unpublished fixes or beta versions of the software that address the issue.

Preventing the Node20.exe Error in the Future

Once you’ve fixed the error, here are some tips to keep it from coming back:

• Keep Software Updated: Regularly check for Stream Deck software and firmware updates to stay compatible with Windows.

• Limit Plugins: Only install plugins you need, and avoid third-party ones unless they’re from trusted developers.

• Monitor Background Processes: Use Task Manager to keep an eye on node20.exe and other processes that might cause conflicts.

• Backup Your Settings: Before updating or reinstalling Stream Deck, back up your profiles to avoid losing custom setups.

FAQs About the Node20.exe Error

Is node20.exe a virus?
No, node20.exe is a legitimate file used by Stream Deck and other Node.js-based applications. However, always scan your PC with antivirus software to rule out malware disguising itself as node20.exe.

Will disabling node20.exe break my Stream Deck?
Disabling or renaming node20.exe may affect plugins that rely on it, like the Volume Controller. Test your Stream Deck after making changes to ensure everything works as expected.

Why does the error only appear after installing plugins?
Some plugins trigger node20.exe to run in a way that doesn’t close properly during shutdown. Removing or updating these plugins often resolves the issue.

Can I roll back to an older Stream Deck version?
Yes, some users have fixed the error by installing an older version, like Stream Deck 6.6.1, from Elgato’s archives. Check their website for older downloads.

Conclusion

The node20.exe error on shutdown can be a hassle, but with the right approach, you can fix it and get your PC running smoothly again. Start by updating your Stream Deck software, then try disabling plugins, adjusting compatibility settings, or performing a clean boot. If all else fails, Elgato’s support team is there to help. By following these steps, you’ll not only resolve the error but also learn how to keep your system in top shape.