How To Fix Blue Screen of Death.
The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is one of the most frustrating errors for Windows users, as it forces your computer to shut down to prevent damage. This error can happen due to a variety of causes, such as hardware failure, driver issues, or software conflicts. To effectively resolve a BSOD, it's important to diagnose the cause and address it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fix blue screen errors:
1. Note Down the Error Code
- When the blue screen occurs, it often displays an error code (e.g., IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION, or PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA). These codes provide clues about the underlying issue.
- Write down this error code, as it will help you in diagnosing the specific problem.
2. Restart in Safe Mode
Sometimes, BSOD prevents you from accessing Windows normally. Safe Mode allows you to load only essential drivers and services.
- To enter Safe Mode, restart your computer and press `F8` or `Shift + F8` repeatedly before Windows loads.
- Once in Safe Mode, you can begin troubleshooting (e.g., uninstalling recent drivers or programs).
3. Check for Recent Changes
- Uninstall Recently Installed Software: If you recently installed a new program or driver before the blue screen started occurring, it might be causing the issue. Uninstall it and check if the problem resolves.
- Update Drivers: Old or corrupt drivers are common causes of BSOD. Go to **Device Manager (`Win + X > Device Manager`) and update any drivers that show warning signs or seem outdated. Focus on essential drivers such as:
- Graphics card drivers
- Network drivers
- Motherboard drivers
4. Run System Restore
If you suspect that a recent change in your system (e.g., Windows updates or new software installations) is causing the BSOD, running a System Restore can revert your PC back to a previous state.
- Type `rstrui` in the Windows search bar and select System Restore.
- Choose a restore point before the issue started and follow the on-screen instructions.
5. Scan for Malware
Malware can also corrupt system files and cause BSOD. Running a full system scan with a reputable antivirus program can help detect and remove malicious software.
- If you don’t have an antivirus, Windows Defender is built-in and can be used to scan your computer.
- To perform a quick scan:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection and choose Quick Scan.
6. Check for Hardware Issues
Sometimes the blue screen is due to failing hardware, such as faulty RAM, a failing hard drive, or overheating.
- Run Memory Diagnostics:
- Press `Win + R`, type `mdsched.exe`, and press Enter.
- Choose to restart now and check for problems.
- Check Disk for Errors:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator (`Win + X > Command Prompt (Admin)`).
- Type `chkdsk /f` and press Enter. This command will check the hard drive for file system errors.
- Check for Overheating:
- Overheating can trigger BSOD. Ensure that your CPU and GPU temperatures are within normal limits, and clean out dust from fans and heat sinks if necessary.
7. Update or Roll Back Windows
- Update Windows: Ensure that your system is up to date with the latest patches, as some blue screen errors may be fixed with updates.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and click Check for updates.
- Roll Back Windows: If the issue started after a recent update, you can roll back to a previous version.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, and under Go back to the previous version of Windows 10, follow the instructions.
8. Check Event Viewer Logs
The Event Viewer logs detailed error messages that can help in diagnosing BSOD causes.
- Open Event Viewer by typing it into the search bar.
- Go to Windows Logs > System, and look for critical events marked with red error icons around the time the BSOD occurred.
9. Run SFC and DISM Commands
Corrupt system files can lead to BSOD errors. Running System File Checker (SFC) and DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool) can help repair system files.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Type the following commands one at a time and press Enter after each:
- `sfc /scannow` (Scans and repairs corrupt system files).
- `DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth` (Restores system health).
10. Perform a Clean Boot
A Clean Boot starts Windows with minimal drivers and startup programs, allowing you to troubleshoot if a background service or startup item is causing the BSOD.
- Open System Configuration by typing `msconfig` in the search bar.
- Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all.
- Under the Startup tab, click Open Task Manager and disable all startup items.
- Restart your computer and see if the blue screen occurs again.
11. Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If none of the above methods work, and you continue to experience frequent BSOD errors, you may need to consider a fresh install of Windows.
- Make sure to back up important files before reinstalling.
- You can use the Reset this PC feature under Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, or create a new installation media using the Media Creation Tool.
The key to fixing blue screen errors is identifying the cause and applying the appropriate fix. Regular maintenance, such as keeping your drivers and system up to date, can help prevent BSOD errors from occurring. If the error persists despite these steps, it may indicate a deeper hardware issue, in which case seeking professional help could be necessary.