Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) – Common Causes and Fixes

How to diagnose and resolve critical Windows crashes.

1) Note the Stop Code

Codes like IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL or MEMORY_MANAGEMENT hint at the cause.

2) Check Recent Changes

Uninstall newly installed drivers/apps or roll back updates if BSODs started recently.

3) Test Memory and Disk

Run Windows Memory Diagnostic and chkdsk /f /r to check for errors.

4) Update or Roll Back Drivers

GPU/storage drivers are common culprits; try clean reinstall.

5) Scan for Malware

Rootkits can cause system crashes; run offline scans.

6) Check Temperatures and PSU

Overheating or unstable power can trigger BSODs under load.

Guided Steps

  1. Note the Stop Code
    Write down the exact code shown on the BSOD.
    Stop code
  2. Check Recent Changes
    Uninstall recent drivers/apps or roll back updates.
  3. Test Memory and Disk
    Windows Memory Diagnostic and chkdsk /f /r.
  4. Update or Roll Back Drivers
    Clean reinstall GPU/storage drivers.
  5. Scan for Malware
    Run offline scans for rootkits.
  6. Check Temperatures and PSU
    Ensure stable power and cooling.