When the dreaded Blue Screen of Death hits you out of the blue it feels so frustrating. The system automatically starts rebooting also dumping physical memory from the last session process. I have also faced BSOD error quite a few times and did a detailed research to tackle the situation in future.
But before you go ahead and resolve errors like BSOD, it’s important that you know about its causes. Also, if you keep these few key factors in mind to deal with and even avoid BSOD errors.
What causes BSOD error on Windows PC?
Here are 5 of the most common issues that are known to trigger the Blue Screen of Death issue on your computer.
#1 Corrupt System files are one of the prime causes
If you are experiencing BSOD, it can easily be for problems or irregularities with Windows system files. If you are not sure what Windows System files are, it is essential that you get some idea about it.
Windows system files include both Program files and files in the System32 folder. These files can get corrupted for a number of reasons and result in problems like BSOD and others. Run the Windows troubleshooter to identify the files triggering the problem. But what causes system files to get corrupted?
- Improper Windows shutdown process
- Problems with software installation
- Windows or system update failures
- Malware or Virus infections
- Outdated Windows registry files
These are just some of many reasons why Windows system file may get corrupted. Also, make sure you keep Windows updated to avoid other similar errors.
#2 Virus or Malware infections can also cause BSOD
Yes, similar to corrupt Windows system files, malware and viruses can also result in Blue Screen of Death. Often users overlook and spend more time looking for system related issues. Also, not only BSOD errors, malicious programs can also cause more added problems that your PC’s processing capabilities.
To avoid virus infections, install an antivirus software of your choice and disinfect the system. Run a full system scan look remove malicious programs affecting your system. Also, ensure you have a working Firewall set up to restrict programs like adware from infecting your system.
#3 Outdated or Incompatible installed Driver software
Problems and irregularities with installed drivers can also trigger BSOD error on your computer. This is a tricky situation and can often be hard to identify the driver causing BSOD. When discussing problems with drivers, it’s better not rule out any possibilities.
From system drivers to drivers of installed software or peripheral can all contribute to the issue. Devices like printers, projectors, scanners, webcam and so on, all have a dedicated device driver to function. Similarly, internal hardware like graphics cards and the sound card also require updated drivers to give optimum output.
- Run Windows troubleshooter to look for missing, corrupt or outdated drivers
- Search the web and install compatible versions of necessary drivers
- Also, ensure to roll back or remove incompatible installed drivers
#4 Problems with specific software or application
Yes, a specific program can also contribute to a BSOD error. Firstly, it is very important to install software and applications that are compatible with your system. Compatibility depends on a lot of factor including system requirements and Windows attributes.
There are different versions of the same Windows operating system. Firstly check which variant of Windows you are using, check whether it is a 32bit version or a 64bit version. Make sure to install the compatible version of the software for installed Windows.
For example, software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and Sony Vega Pro all have different 32-bit and 64-bit versions for different systems. Remove any and every incompatible software installed on your computer and reinstall the supported version if needed.
#5 Windows Registry errors
Problems with Windows Registry is also another problem that bugs users with the issue and even results in BSOD. Firstly, problems with Windows Registry is not something to avoid and keep working around. To fix Windows Registry errors click on Start and open Run and hit enter.
This is will start the Windows Registry Checker tool, initiate a scan process and wait for the wizard to finish. The registry checker tool scans through your system looking for invalid entries and empty data blocks. The tool looks for these irregularities and rolls back any file to the last stable version.
It is better to avoid Windows Registry based BSOD error as problems with Registry is kind of a recurring problem and can happen anytime.
How to fix BSOD error?
So now that you have a certain idea about what causes BSOD errors on Windows, you should be able to deal with the problem as well.
When Windows encounters BSOD errors it will ask you for the permission to restart/reboot your system to dump physical memory. This removes all errors presently affecting your system and restarts Windows afresh. Upon restarting you can on with your work, but you should access and check Windows Event Viewer for more details to avoid BSOD in the future.
Run Windows Event Viewer to identify problems
Windows Event Viewer, just like the name suggests is a log of system activities of your computer. It is one of the most helpful tools available inbuilt on Windows for system maintenance and performance analysis.
Follow these steps to access Event Viewer.
- Click on Start
- Search for and open Windows Event Viewer
- From the left panel, select and expand Windows Logs
- Now check the Applications tab for warnings and notices.
- Remove/Uninstall programs or software producing errors
Remove these programs from your computer to avoid problems like BSOD and others. Make sure to restart your system once after uninstalling the software or application that caused the Blue Screen Of Death.
A final word about BSOD errors – Conclusion
BSOD or the Blue Screen of Death is one of the most nagging and irritating problems that you can face on Windows computers. Make sure to install only supported and compatible programs to avoid issues.
To be honest, you can’t really do anything when encountering a BSOD error except granting Windows the permission to restart your system. Hope I was able to explain causes and help you fix the constant BSOD errors.