Complete Guide to Fixing Windows Blue Screen Errors (BSOD)

 

Introduction



Windows Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is one of the most frustrating errors a PC user can encounter. It can happen unexpectedly, causing your computer to crash and display a blue screen with an error code. BSODs usually indicate critical system issues, including hardware failures, driver conflicts, or corrupted files. Fortunately, most Blue Screen errors can be fixed without professional help if you follow the right steps carefully.

1. Identify the Error Code

The first step in troubleshooting a BSOD is to identify the error code displayed on the blue screen. Common error codes include:

  • IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL – Usually caused by faulty drivers or hardware.
  • PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA – Memory issues or disk corruption.
  • CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED – System process failure.

Write down the error code and any file names mentioned. This will help narrow down the solution.

2. Restart Your Computer in Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with minimal drivers and services, which can help diagnose issues:

  1. Restart your PC and press F8 (or Shift + F8 on some PCs) during boot.
  2. Select Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking.
  3. Once in Safe Mode, check if the error persists. If not, it is likely caused by a driver or software conflict.

3. Update or Roll Back Drivers

Faulty drivers are a common cause of BSOD:

  • Press Windows + X > Device Manager.
  • Check for any devices with a yellow warning icon.
  • Right-click and select Update driver or Roll Back Driver if the issue started after a recent update.

4. Check for Hardware Issues

Hardware problems, like bad RAM or failing hard drives, can trigger blue screens:

  • Run Windows Memory Diagnostic to check RAM health.
  • Check hard drive health using CHKDSK or third-party software.
  • Reseat hardware components like RAM sticks or graphic cards if recently installed.

5. Scan for Malware

Malware and viruses can corrupt system files, causing BSOD errors:

  • Run a full system scan using Windows Defender or trusted antivirus software.
  • Quarantine or remove any threats found.

6. Use System Restore

If the BSOD started recently, System Restore can revert Windows to a previous stable state:

  1. Go to Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore.
  2. Select a restore point from before the error occurred.
  3. Follow the prompts to restore your system.

7. Check Disk for Errors

Corrupted files on your hard drive can trigger BSOD:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
  • Follow prompts and restart your PC for the scan to complete.

8. Update Windows

Windows updates often contain fixes for stability issues:

  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Click Check for Updates and install available updates.

9. Check for Software Conflicts

Newly installed software can conflict with existing programs or drivers:

  • Uninstall any recently installed software.
  • Restart your computer and check if the BSOD appears again.

10. Advanced Solutions: SFC and DISM

System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) can repair corrupted system files:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Run sfc /scannow and wait for the process to complete.
  • Then run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth for deeper repairs.

Conclusion

Blue Screen errors can be intimidating, but most can be resolved with careful troubleshooting. Identifying the error code, updating drivers, checking hardware, and using Windows tools like System Restore, SFC, and DISM can bring your PC back to stable performance. Remember to back up your data regularly and maintain your system to prevent future BSODs.

For more detailed PC fixes and step-by-step tech tutorials, visit Tech Fix Guide NP

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