How to Fix “cef_fram_render.exe has stopped working” Error?

The “cef_frame_render.exe has stopped working” error is typically associated with the Chromium Embedded Framework (CEF), a popular open-source framework used to embed web browser functionality into applications. This error often arises due to insufficient video memory or system resources, leading to crashes when the program attempts to allocate textures. Additionally, certain software, such as Tencent’s applications, utilize this executable, and issues may occur if the file is corrupted or compromised.

This error can disrupt your programs, games, or other graphically intensive processes, significantly affecting your gaming or work experience.

1. Close Unnecessary Background Applications

We often run programs in the background without realizing how much video memory they’re using. Applications like browsers with multiple tabs, chat software, or streaming apps can consume significant system resources, leaving less available for your game or application. To free up memory and ensure optimal performance, close these unnecessary programs.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc and select Task Manager.
  2. Identify programs consuming Memory resources.
  3. Right-click on them, and select End Task.

2. Lower the Resolution (Workaround)

Reducing the resolution in your game or application helps decrease the video memory requirement, which can prevent crashes caused by memory allocation issues or GPU overload. This method can serve as a quick workaround for immediate stability but does not address the root cause of the problem.

For Gamers:

  1. Launch the game where the crash is occurring.
  2. Look for the settings menu, typically accessible from the main menu or pause screen. It is usually labeled as “Video” or “Graphics Settings.”
    Each game has a different interface, but most include a resolution drop-down or slider under display options.
  3. Select the Resolution drop-down menu.
  4. Choose a resolution lower than your current setting, such as 720p or even 480p, to significantly reduce GPU strain.
  5. Save the settings and restart the game if prompted.

However, keep in mind that this is not a permanent fix—there are additional steps you can follow.

For Video Editors:

If you’re experiencing memory-related crashes in your video editing software, consider the following methods to minimize the risk of encountering the “cef_frame_render.exe has stopped working” issue:

  • Lower Aspect Ratio: Reducing the aspect ratio of your video can decrease memory usage, allowing smoother performance and reducing crashes. Edit in smaller dimensions when possible.
  • Use Proxy Video: Many video editors offer a proxy video feature that lets you work with lower-resolution versions of your footage during editing. This conserves memory while you edit and applies the original resolution during export.
    Almost every video editor supports this feature. This image shows CapCut’s settings.
  • Optimize with Handbrake: You can further optimize your videos by using Handbrake to compress video size and resolution. It’s user-friendly and offers flexibility for resolution and size compression.

These tips will lower memory demands and prevent crashes, making your video editing sessions much more stable.

3. Update Your Graphics Drivers

Outdated graphics drivers can cause compatibility issues, leading to errors like this one. It’s important to keep your drivers updated to ensure smooth performance and compatibility with modern applications and games.

Sometimes GPU drivers don’t auto-update. In such cases, you’ll need to manually download the drivers by searching for your product on the official website. Be sure to select the correct model and operating system to avoid installing incompatible drivers. Using a tool like DDU (Display Driver Uninstaller) to cleanly remove old drivers before updating can also help prevent conflicts.

4. Increase Virtual Memory

Virtual memory serves as an extension of your system’s physical RAM, enabling the operating system to compensate for shortages by temporarily transferring data from RAM to disk storage. This process can be particularly beneficial when trying to resolve errors like the ‘CEF Frame Render Error,’ which may occur due to insufficient memory resources.

  1. Right-click on This PC, then go to Properties to see how much RAM is installed on your system.
  2. In the same Properties window, navigate to System > About > Advanced System Settings.
  3. In the Advanced tab, click on Settings under the Performance section.
  4. In the Performance Options window, go to the Advanced tab. At the bottom, you’ll see Virtual Memory—click on Change.
  5. At the bottom you will see Virtual Memory. Click on Change….
  6. Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.
  7. Select the drive with enough free space (usually, the system-managed option is Recommended).
  8. Choose Custom Size: Set the Initial size to the recommended size listed at the bottom of the window.
  9. For Maximum size, multiply your system RAM (e.g., 16GB) by 3 to calculate the maximum size in MB. To do this:
  10. Multiply 16GB by 1024 (to convert it to MB), then multiply that result by 3.
  11. Paste the calculated value in the Maximum size field, then click Set and OK.
  12. Once you’ve applied these settings, restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

5. Check for Hardware Issues

Faulty hardware, such as a damaged GPU or RAM, could be the cause. Use diagnostic tools like MemTest86 to rule out hardware problems and ensure everything is functioning properly. That’s it! With these simple steps, you can resolve the “CEF_frame_render_error“. Good luck!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hamza Mohammad Anwar


Hamza Mohammad Anwar is an intermediate JavaScript web developer with a focus on developing high-performance applications using MERN technologies. His skill set includes expertise in ReactJS, MongoDB, Express NodeJS, and other related technologies. Hamza is also a Google IT Certified professional, which highlights his competence in IT support. As an avid problem-solver, he recreates errors on his computer to troubleshoot and find solutions to various technical issues.