Mswinsck.ocx Error

Identification
The mswinsck.ocx process is the winsock control module that adds functionality to socket programming. The file works only with Visual Basic, and when it's working properly, it generally does not affect computer functions or other running programs. However, an error in the file may cause issues with the Windows operating system's startup process.
Error
The mswinsck.ocx error generally appears at startup. Depending on the nature of the error, you may see different messages. In Windows, you may get one of the following messages: 'Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt: Windows\system32\MSWINSCK.OCX. Please re-install a copy of the above file'; 'This application failed to start because MSWINSCK.OCX was not found. Re-installing the application may fix this problem'; or 'Windows\System32\MSWINSCK.OCX missing or corrupt: Please re-install a copy of the above file.' The error message may also sometimes include the location of the corrupt or missing file.
Causes
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the error, including an operating system crash, a hard drive error, or an error specific to Visual Basic or the mswinsck.ocx file itself. However, while there is no one underlying cause, receiving the error generally means that the mswinsck.ocx is corrupted, damaged or missing, and needs to be replaced. Replacing the file usually stops the error message from appearing.
Fixing the Error
One of the easiest ways to resolve the error issue is to run a system recovery to restore the changes made to the file. However, if the system recovery does not resolve the issue, you have to replace the mswinsck.ocx file. Locate an installation file online or copy the mswinsck.ocx file from another computer. Place the new working copy of the mswinsck.ocx file in the location C:\Windows\System32. Finally, it's a good idea to run a scan of your computer to prevent further errors or viruses from damaging your PC.