Windows Blue Screen Error Codes (BSOD): Complete List & How to Fix Them
The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is one of the most frustrating Windows errors. It usually appears with a stop code that explains why your PC crashed. In this guide, you’ll find a complete list of common Windows blue screen error codes and step-by-step solutions that even beginners can follow.
What Is a Blue Screen Error (BSOD)?
A Blue Screen error occurs when Windows encounters a critical system failure and must stop to prevent damage. Most BSODs are caused by:
- Faulty or outdated drivers
- Corrupted system files
- Hardware issues (RAM, SSD, GPU)
- Windows update conflicts
The key to fixing a BSOD is understanding the stop code.
Most Common Windows Blue Screen Error Codes
1. CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED
Cause: Essential Windows system processes stopped unexpectedly.
How to Fix:
- Restart your PC
- Run System File Checker:
sfc /scannow - Update all drivers (especially chipset & storage)
2. SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION
Cause: Faulty drivers or incompatible software.
How to Fix:
- Uninstall recently installed programs
- Update graphics and network drivers
- Run Windows Memory Diagnostic
3. IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
Cause: Driver attempted to access invalid memory.
How to Fix:
- Boot into Safe Mode
- Remove overclocking (CPU/RAM)
- Update or roll back device drivers
4. PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA
Cause: RAM errors or corrupted system files.
How to Fix:
- Run Windows Memory Diagnostic
- Check disk for errors:
chkdsk /f /r - Remove third-party antivirus temporarily
5. DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION
Cause: SSD firmware or driver timeout.
How to Fix:
- Update SSD firmware
- Update SATA/NVMe controller drivers
- Disable Fast Startup
6. MEMORY_MANAGEMENT
Cause: Faulty RAM or driver memory leaks.
How to Fix:
- Test RAM modules one by one
- Disable XMP in BIOS
- Run:
sfc /scannow
7. KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED
Cause: Kernel-level driver crash.
How to Fix:
- Boot into Safe Mode
- Update GPU and chipset drivers
- Uninstall third-party system tools
8. INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE
Cause: Windows cannot access the system drive.
How to Fix:
- Check BIOS boot mode (AHCI vs RAID)
- Run Startup Repair
- Undo recent Windows updates
9. WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR
Cause: Hardware failure (CPU, PSU, overheating).
How to Fix:
- Check CPU/GPU temperatures
- Remove all overclocking
- Update BIOS/UEFI
10. UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION
Cause: Storage device failure or corrupted drivers.
How to Fix:
- Update storage drivers
- Disable Fast Startup
- Run disk health check
Universal Fixes That Work for Most BSOD Errors
If you’re unsure which error applies, try these universal solutions:
Step 1: Update Windows
Install all pending Windows updates.
Step 2: Update Drivers
Focus on GPU, chipset, storage, and network drivers.
Step 3: Check System Files
sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Step 4: Check Hardware
- RAM test
- Disk health check
- Temperature monitoring
FAQ: Blue Screen Errors
Can BSOD errors damage my PC?
The error itself doesn’t damage hardware, but ignoring repeated BSODs can lead to data loss.
Should I reinstall Windows?
Only as a last resort. Most BSODs are caused by drivers or hardware issues that can be fixed.
Why do BSODs happen after Windows updates?
Some updates conflict with older drivers or unsupported hardware.
Tip: Bookmark this page. We’ll keep updating this list as new Windows blue screen error codes appear.
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