Assign Material python crash

[magillaGuerilla]

I can't right click and assign material on multiple objects- I get a python exception and crash - you can't click any buttons and this overlay remains on top of all applications

Maya 2024.2

I use a HP workstation and there was a recent "security" update that probably caused this - you can't opt out of security updates. Anyone else get this?

[carolineharper4882 · Accepted solution]

This usually happens when Maya’s Python environment or user prefs get corrupted, especially after OS or security updates.

A few things you can try that often fix this:

1. Close Maya and rename the Maya preferences folder so Maya creates a fresh one on the next launch.
   (Documents > Maya> rename the folder for your version)

2. Start Maya as Administrator once and test assigning the material again. Some security updates block script execution without admin rights.

3. Check if any antivirus or endpoint security is blocking Python scripts. Try temporarily disabling real-time protection and see if the crash stops.

4. Make sure Maya is using the correct Python version. If you upgraded Maya, reinstall the same version to repair missing Python files.

5. If you’re using third-party plugins, disable them and test in a clean scene. Some plugins can break material assignment.

Many users have reported similar crashes after recent Windows or security updates, so it’s likely not your hardware. Resetting prefs plus checking security software usually solves it.

[magillaGuerilla]

Thank you for the comprehensive reply. All antivirus is off, Windows updating is off but HP computers frequently update without permission, there seems to be nothing you can do about it. I have resolved the issue but still receive warning messages on quitting Maya that certain py scripts have been modified and do I want to save them, so it's not impairing functionality any more but it is still annoying.

[carolineharper4882]

Thanks for the update. If Maya is launching fine but scripts are failing after recent Windows or security updates, that usually points to permission or antivirus interference, not a hardware issue.

I’d suggest checking Windows Defender / antivirus exclusions for Maya folders, and running Maya once as Administrator to confirm. If scripts were working before, a recent update likely blocked script execution or file access.

Appreciate you sharing the details, it helps narrow it down for others facing the same issue.