Fix Blue Screen (BSOD) Errors – Complete Guide
Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors occur when Windows encounters a critical problem that it cannot recover from safely. These errors may appear suddenly during startup, while using software, or after updates. This guide explains how to diagnose and fix BSOD errors in Windows 10 and Windows 11 step by step.
What Is a BSOD?
A BSOD is a system crash designed to protect your computer from further damage. Windows stops all processes and displays an error screen with a STOP code.
Common causes include:
- Faulty drivers
- Hardware failure
- Corrupted system files
- Overheating
- Incompatible software
- Failed Windows updates
Common BSOD STOP Codes
- CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED
- IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
- PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA
- INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE
- MEMORY_MANAGEMENT
- SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION
- DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE
The STOP code gives clues about the root cause.
Step 1: Restart & Observe
Sometimes BSOD occurs once due to a temporary issue.
- Restart the PC
- Check if BSOD happens again
- Note the STOP code if it reappears
If BSOD repeats, continue with troubleshooting.
Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode
Safe Mode loads Windows with minimal drivers.
- Restart PC 2–3 times to enter recovery mode
- Troubleshoot → Advanced options
- Startup Settings → Restart
- Press 4 or F4 for Safe Mode
If Windows works in Safe Mode, the issue is usually driver or software related.
Step 3: Check Recent Changes
Ask yourself:
- Did you install a new driver?
- Did you install new hardware?
- Did Windows update recently?
Undo recent changes if possible.
Step 4: Update or Roll Back Drivers
Drivers are the most common BSOD cause.
Update Drivers
- Open Device Manager
- Update graphics, chipset, and storage drivers
Roll Back Driver
- Device Manager → Device properties
- Driver tab → Roll Back Driver
Step 5: Run System File Checker
Corrupted system files can cause BSOD.
sfc /scannow
Run Command Prompt as Administrator.
Step 6: Check Disk for Errors
Disk errors often cause crashes.
chkdsk C: /f /r
Restart if prompted.
Step 7: Check RAM (Very Important)
Faulty RAM is a major BSOD cause.
Windows Memory Diagnostic
- Press Win + R
- Type
mdsched.exe - Restart and check for problems
If errors are found, replace the RAM.
Step 8: Check Temperature & Overheating
Overheating CPUs or GPUs can trigger BSOD.
- Clean laptop or PC internally
- Ensure fan is working
- Replace thermal paste if needed
High temperature under load is a warning sign.
Step 9: Uninstall Problematic Software
Certain software can cause system crashes.
- Third-party antivirus
- System tweaking tools
- Cracked or modified software
Uninstall and test system stability.
Step 10: Analyze BSOD Dump Files (Advanced)
Windows creates dump files after a BSOD.
Location:
C:\Windows\Minidump\
Use debugging tools to identify faulty drivers. This step is recommended for advanced users or technicians.
Step 11: Uninstall Recent Windows Updates
Sometimes updates introduce bugs.
- Settings → Windows Update
- Update history → Uninstall updates
- Remove latest update
Step 12: System Restore
Restore Windows to a previous stable state.
- Advanced options
- System Restore
- Select restore point
Personal files remain safe.
Step 13: Reset Windows (Last Option)
If BSOD continues:
- Troubleshoot → Reset this PC
- Choose Keep my files
This reinstalls Windows without deleting data.
Technician BSOD Troubleshooting Checklist
- ✔ Check STOP code
- ✔ Boot Safe Mode
- ✔ Update drivers
- ✔ Run SFC & CHKDSK
- ✔ Test RAM
- ✔ Check temperatures
- ✔ Remove faulty software
When to Replace Hardware
Replace hardware if:
- RAM errors persist
- HDD/SSD shows bad sectors
- System overheats despite cleaning
- Motherboard components fail
Conclusion
Blue Screen (BSOD) errors can look frightening, but most are fixable with proper diagnosis. By following this complete guide step by step, you can identify the root cause and restore system stability without unnecessary reinstallation.
Always start with software fixes and move to hardware checks only when required.