How to Fix node20.exe Error on Windows Shutdown – Stream Deck Troubleshooting Guide

If you’re encountering a node20.exe error when shutting down your computer. This issue is commonly linked to Elgato Stream Deck software, particularly due to certain plugins not closing properly. In this guide, we’ll explore the causes and provide effective solutions to resolve the problem.

What Causes the node20.exe Error?

The error typically occurs because the node20.exe process, which runs as part of Stream Deck’s functionality, fails to terminate when the system is shutting down. This is often due to:

• Faulty or incompatible Stream Deck plugins (such as the Volume Controller plugin)
• Background processes that don’t close properly
• Software conflicts or outdated versions of Stream Deck
• Interference from other installed plugins, including Advanced Launcher by BarRaider
• Conflicts with an existing Node.js installation on the system

How to Fix the node20.exe Error

1. Identify and Disable Problematic Plugins

Some users have reported that certain plugins, such as the Volume Controller plugin, can trigger the error. To check for problematic plugins:

1. Go to the Stream Deck installation directory: C:\Program Files\Elgato\StreamDeck\node
2. Rename node20.exe to node20old.exe.
3. Restart the Stream Deck software.
4. Observe which plugins fail to load – these may be causing the issue.
5. Disable or uninstall the problematic plugins and restart your system.

Note: Some users have noted that even after uninstalling certain plugins, the error persists. In such cases, additional troubleshooting steps may be required.

2. Set Compatibility Mode for StreamDeck.exe

If the issue persists, try running Stream Deck in compatibility mode:

1. Navigate to the installation folder where StreamDeck.exe is located.
2. Right-click on StreamDeck.exe and select Properties.
3. Click on the Compatibility tab.
4. Check Run this program in compatibility mode for: and select Windows 7.
5. Click Apply and restart your computer.

Important: Some users reported that setting compatibility mode should be applied for all users to ensure the fix takes effect properly.

3. Update or Reinstall Stream Deck Software

Outdated software versions can sometimes cause conflicts. Ensure you are using the latest version:

1. Visit Elgato official website and download the latest version of Stream Deck.
2. Uninstall the current version of Stream Deck from your system.
3. Install the latest version and restart your computer.

Some users found that rolling back to Stream Deck version 6.6.1 resolved the issue. If the latest version doesn’t fix the error, try downloading an older version from Elgato’s archives.

4. Remove or Rename node20.exe to Prevent Execution

If none of the above fixes work, you can try manually preventing node20.exe from running:

1. Navigate to C:\Program Files\Elgato\StreamDeck\node.
2. Delete or rename node20.exe (e.g., node20_old.exe).
3. Restart your computer and test if the error persists.

Warning: Disabling node20.exe may affect some Stream Deck functionalities, especially plugins relying on Node.js.

5. Remove Volume Controller Plugin Files Manually

Even after uninstalling the Volume Controller plugin, Stream Deck may attempt to reinstall it automatically. To prevent this:

1. Go to C:\Program Files\Elgato\StreamDeck\Distributables.
2. Locate the Volume Controller plugin files.
3. Delete or rename these files.

This ensures Stream Deck does not reinstall the problematic plugin at startup.

Common User Experiences and Fixes

• Some users reported that the error appeared only after installing additional plugins, even if they weren’t using the Volume Controller plugin.
• A few users experienced the issue only after upgrading to Windows 11 or performing a clean installation of Windows.
• If you have Node.js installed separately for development, there might be a conflict with the Node.js runtime bundled with Stream Deck.
• Some users suggested that waiting for an official Elgato update might be the best long-term solution, as Elgato has acknowledged the problem but has yet to release a dedicated fix.

Final Thoughts

The node20.exe error on shutdown can be frustrating, but in most cases, it can be resolved by disabling problematic plugins, adjusting compatibility settings, or updating the software. If none of these solutions work, consider reaching out to Elgato Support for further assistance.

Have you encountered this error? Let us know in the comments below how you fixed it!