How to Fix Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on Windows 11

Category: Troubleshooting

Seeing a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on Windows 11 can be frustrating. This error occurs when Windows encounters a critical issue that forces the system to stop. The good news is that there are ways to troubleshoot and fix the problem. Let’s walk through the most effective solutions.

1. Identify the Error Code

Each BSOD comes with a stop code, which can help identify the issue.

  • Restart your PC and take note of the error message on the BSOD screen.
  • Look for common stop codes like CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED, MEMORY_MANAGEMENT, or IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL.
  • Search for the error code on Microsoft’s BSOD Troubleshooting Page.

2. Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches that caused the BSOD.

3. Check for Windows Updates

  • Go to Settings > Windows Update.
  • Click Check for updates and install any pending updates.

4. Update Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers are a common cause of BSOD errors.

Steps to Update Drivers:

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Look for any drivers with a yellow warning icon.
3. Right-click on the driver and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

5. Run a System File Check

Corrupt system files can trigger a BSOD. Use the System File Checker (SFC) to repair them.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (Win + X > Command Prompt (Admin)).
2. Type: sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and restart your computer.

6. Check for Memory and Disk Errors

Run Memory Diagnostic Tool:

1. Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, and hit Enter.
2. Select Restart now and check for problems.

Check for Disk Errors:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type: chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
3. Restart your computer.

7. Uninstall Recent Software or Updates

If BSOD started after installing new software or a Windows update, try uninstalling it.

  • Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.
  • Locate the recently installed app and click Uninstall.
  • For Windows Updates, go to Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates.

8. Boot Into Safe Mode

Safe Mode allows you to troubleshoot Windows with minimal drivers and services running.

1. Restart your PC and press F8 or Shift + F8 before Windows loads.
2. Select Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Safe Mode.

9. Perform a System Restore

If the issue started recently, a System Restore can revert your system to a stable state.

1. Go to Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore.
2. Select a restore point before the BSOD issue started.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

10. Reinstall Windows 11 (Last Resort)

If none of the above steps work, reinstalling Windows 11 might be necessary.

  • Backup important files before proceeding.
  • Use a Windows 11 Installation USB to perform a clean install.

Conclusion

BSOD errors on Windows 11 can often be fixed by updating drivers, checking for system file corruption, and running diagnostics. By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue and get your PC running smoothly again.

For more troubleshooting tips, visit Microsoft Support.

Tags:

Windows
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