Most Common Windows Stop Codes & Their Fixes [2026]

If your Windows computer suddenly displays a blue screen with a message saying “Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart”, don’t panic. This screen is commonly known as the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). Along with the blue screen, Windows also displays a Stop Code. This code is designed to help identify the reason your computer crashed.

A Windows Stop Code can appear for several reasons. A faulty hardware component, an outdated device driver, damaged system files, failing memory, storage errors, or incompatible software can all trigger a blue screen. Although these errors may look serious, many of them can be fixed by following the correct troubleshooting steps.

The most important thing is to understand what the stop code means before attempting any repairs. Once you know the cause, you can follow the appropriate solution to get your computer working normally again.

In this guide, I have explained the most common Windows Stop Codes in simple language and provided detailed solutions to fix them.

Let’s go through this guide!

Table of Contents

Most Common Windows Stop Codes and Their Meaning

Every stop code points to a different type of problem. Learning what these codes mean helps you narrow down the cause much faster.

IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL usually indicates a faulty device driver, damaged memory, or incompatible hardware trying to access restricted memory.
CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED means one of Windows’ essential system processes unexpectedly stopped working, forcing Windows to shut down to prevent data corruption.
SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION generally occurs because of outdated drivers, damaged Windows files, incompatible software, or graphics driver issues.
PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA often appears when Windows cannot correctly access important memory because of faulty RAM, storage errors, or damaged drivers.
MEMORY_MANAGEMENT indicates Windows has detected serious problems while managing the computer’s memory.
KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED usually means a device driver generated an error that Windows could not process.
UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION commonly points toward storage drive issues, corrupted files, or antivirus software conflicts.
INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE means Windows cannot communicate with the drive that contains the operating system.
WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR generally indicates a hardware failure involving the processor, motherboard, RAM, storage device, or overheating.
DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION usually occurs because of outdated storage drivers, SSD firmware problems, or incompatible hardware.

Common Windows Stop Codes & Their Fixes

IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

This is one of the most common blue screen errors in Windows. It usually happens when a device driver, hardware component, or memory module tries to access an area of memory that it should not use.

If the error appeared after installing new hardware or software, that recent change is often the cause.

Step 1: Disconnect Recently Connected Hardware

Think about whether you connected a new printer, external hard drive, USB adapter, graphics card, webcam, or any other device before the blue screen started appearing.

First, completely shut down your computer. Do not simply restart it. Once the computer has turned off, disconnect every external device except your keyboard, mouse, and monitor.

Turn the computer back on.

If Windows starts normally and the blue screen does not return, reconnect one device at a time. Use the computer for several minutes after connecting each device.

This process helps identify which hardware is causing the conflict. If the blue screen appears immediately after reconnecting a particular device, you have likely found the problem.

Step 2: Update Device Drivers

Device drivers allow Windows to communicate with hardware. If a driver becomes outdated or corrupted, Windows may crash.

Click the Start button and type Device Manager. Open the Device Manager window.

You will now see a list of hardware categories.

Look carefully for any device displaying a small yellow warning symbol. This symbol means Windows has detected a problem with that hardware.

Right-click the device and select Update driver. Choose Search automatically for drivers. Allow Windows to search for and install any available updates.

Repeat this process for important devices such as your graphics card, network adapter, storage controller, and chipset.

Restart your computer after updating the drivers.

Even if no warning symbol appears, updating important drivers from your computer manufacturer’s website can improve system stability.

Step 3: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

Faulty RAM is another common reason for this stop code.

Click the Start button. Type Windows Memory Diagnostic. Open the application from the search results. Click Restart now and check for problems.

Save any open documents before selecting this option because your computer will restart immediately.

Your computer will restart into a blue testing screen.

The memory test may take several minutes depending on how much RAM your computer has installed.

Allow the test to finish without interrupting it.

Once Windows starts again, it will automatically display the results.

If Windows reports memory problems, one of your RAM modules may be faulty. In that case, replacing the defective memory is usually the permanent solution.

CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED

This stop code appears when an important Windows process unexpectedly stops working. Since these processes are necessary for Windows to function correctly, the operating system immediately shuts down to protect your files.

This error is commonly caused by corrupted system files, damaged Windows updates, failing storage drives, or malware.

Step 1: Repair Corrupted Windows Files Using System File Checker

Windows includes a repair tool called System File Checker, often called SFC.

Click the Start button.
Type Command Prompt.
When it appears in the search results, right-click it.
Choose Run as administrator.
If Windows asks for permission, click Yes.
A black window will appear.
Type the following command exactly as shown: sfc /scannow
Press Enter.

Windows will now begin scanning all protected system files.

Do not close the window while the scan is running. The scan may take between ten and thirty minutes.

When it finishes, Windows will display one of several messages.

If it says corrupted files were repaired successfully, restart your computer and see whether the blue screen has disappeared.

Step 2: Repair the Windows Image Using DISM

Sometimes SFC cannot repair every damaged file because the Windows image itself has become corrupted.

Open Command Prompt as an administrator again.

Type the following command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Press Enter.

Windows will now download healthy system files if necessary and repair the Windows image. This process may take twenty minutes or longer.

Do not interrupt the repair even if the progress appears stuck. After the repair finishes, restart your computer.

Then run sfc /scannow once more.

Running both tools together repairs many Windows-related problems.

Step 3: Check Your Storage Drive

A failing SSD or hard drive can damage Windows files.

Open Command Prompt as administrator.
Type: chkdsk C: /f /r
Press Enter.
If Windows says it cannot scan because the drive is currently in use, type Y and press Enter.
Restart your computer.

Windows will begin checking your drive before loading the desktop.

Depending on the size of your storage drive, this scan may take anywhere from twenty minutes to several hours.

Allow it to finish completely.

Interrupting the scan could leave file system errors unresolved.

SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION

This stop code often appears because of incompatible drivers, graphics software, antivirus programs, or corrupted Windows files.

Many users experience this error after installing a new application or updating graphics drivers.

Step 1: Uninstall Recently Installed Software

Ask yourself whether the problem started after installing a new program.

Click the Start button.
Open Settings.
Select Apps.
Click Installed Apps.

The list displays all installed software. Sort the applications by installation date if available.

Locate the newest application that was installed before the blue screen began. Click the three dots beside the application.

Select Uninstall.

Follow the on-screen instructions. Restart your computer afterward.

If the blue screen no longer appears, the removed application was likely causing the conflict.

Step 2: Install the Latest Windows Updates

Microsoft frequently releases updates that improve compatibility and fix system crashes.

Open Settings.
Click Windows Update.
Select Check for updates.
Windows will search for available updates.
If updates appear, click Download and Install.
Some updates require multiple restarts.
Continue checking for updates until Windows reports that your computer is fully up to date.

Many blue screen issues disappear after installing the latest cumulative updates.

Step 3: Update Your Graphics Driver

Graphics drivers are one of the most common causes of this stop code.

Open Device Manager.
Expand Display adapters.
Right-click your graphics card.
Select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for drivers.

If Windows installs an updated driver, restart your computer afterward.

If the problem continues, visit your graphics card manufacturer’s support website and download the latest stable driver designed for your specific graphics card model.

Installing the correct graphics driver often resolves repeated SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION errors.

PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA

The PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA stop code appears when Windows attempts to access data stored in an important area of memory but cannot find or read it correctly. This problem is commonly caused by faulty RAM, damaged system files, storage drive errors, or outdated drivers.

If this blue screen appears only once, it may have been caused by a temporary issue. However, if it keeps returning, you should perform the following troubleshooting steps.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Remove External Devices

The first thing you should do is perform a complete restart. Temporary memory errors sometimes disappear after Windows starts fresh.

Click the Start button.
Click the Power icon.
Choose Restart.
Wait for Windows to load normally.

If the blue screen appears again, completely shut down your computer.

Disconnect any external hard drives, USB flash drives, printers, docking stations, webcams, or other accessories that are not required to start Windows.

Leave only your keyboard, mouse, monitor, and power cable connected.

Turn your computer back on.

If Windows now starts without displaying the stop code, reconnect one device at a time. Use your computer for several minutes after connecting each device. If the blue screen returns after reconnecting a particular device, that hardware or its driver is likely responsible.

Step 2: Test Your Computer’s Memory

Since this stop code is frequently related to RAM, checking your memory is an important step.

Click the Start button.
Type Windows Memory Diagnostic.
Open the application from the search results.
Click Restart now and check for problems.

Before selecting this option, save any open documents because Windows will restart immediately.

After restarting, Windows automatically begins checking your memory.

You do not need to press any keys during the test.

The process may take several minutes.

When the test finishes, Windows starts normally and displays the results after you sign in.

If Windows reports memory errors, your computer may have a faulty memory module. If your computer has more than one RAM stick installed, testing each one individually can help determine which module needs replacement.

Step 3: Scan Your Storage Drive for Errors

Corrupted files or bad sectors on your SSD or hard drive can also trigger this stop code.

Click the Start button.
Type Command Prompt.
Right-click Command Prompt.
Choose Run as administrator.
Click Yes if prompted.
In the Command Prompt window, type the following command: chkdsk C: /f /r
Press Enter.

If Windows says the drive is currently in use, type Y and press Enter.

Restart your computer.

Before Windows loads, the disk checking process will begin automatically.

Allow it to complete without turning off your computer.

After Windows starts again, use your computer normally and check whether the blue screen has disappeared.

MEMORY_MANAGEMENT

The MEMORY_MANAGEMENT stop code means Windows has detected problems while managing your computer’s memory. The issue may be caused by defective RAM, damaged Windows files, incorrect memory settings, or unstable drivers.

Step 1: Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

Begin by checking whether your memory is functioning properly.

Click Start.
Search for Windows Memory Diagnostic.
Open the application.
Select Restart now and check for problems.

Your computer restarts and automatically begins testing the installed memory. The test may take longer if your computer has a large amount of RAM.

Do not interrupt the process. When Windows starts again, review the results.

If no problems are found, continue with the next troubleshooting step.

If memory problems are detected, replacing the faulty RAM usually resolves the issue.

Step 2: Repair Corrupted Windows Files

Corrupted system files can sometimes cause Windows to incorrectly manage memory.

Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Type the following command: sfc /scannow
Press Enter.
The scan may take several minutes.

During the scan, Windows compares protected system files against healthy versions stored on your computer.

If damaged files are found, Windows replaces them automatically.

Once the scan finishes, restart your computer before checking whether the error has been resolved.

Step 3: Update Windows Completely

Running an outdated version of Windows may lead to compatibility problems and memory-related errors.

Click Start.
Open Settings.
Select Windows Update.
Click Check for updates.
If updates are available, select Download and Install.

Some updates require multiple restarts.

Continue checking until Windows reports that your device is fully up to date.

Updated system files and drivers often improve stability and prevent future blue screen crashes.

KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED

The KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED stop code usually appears when a driver generates an error that Windows cannot process correctly. Incompatible software, damaged drivers, or recently installed hardware are common causes.

Step 1: Start Windows in Safe Mode

If Windows crashes before reaching the desktop, Safe Mode allows you to troubleshoot without loading unnecessary drivers.

Turn on your computer.
If Windows crashes during startup, allow it to restart.
Repeat this process several times until Automatic Repair appears.
Select Advanced options.
Choose Troubleshoot.
Select Advanced options again.
Click Startup Settings.
Select Restart.

After your computer restarts, press the number corresponding to Safe Mode.

Windows will now load with only the essential drivers needed to operate.

This makes it easier to remove software or drivers that may be causing the stop code.

Step 2: Remove Recently Installed Drivers or Software

Think back to when the problem first started.

Did you install a graphics driver, printer software, antivirus program, or another application just before the blue screen appeared?

Open Settings.
Select Apps.
Click Installed Apps.
Locate the recently installed application.
Choose Uninstall.
If the issue is related to a driver, open Device Manager.
Locate the hardware.
Right-click it.
Select Uninstall device.
Restart your computer afterward.

Windows may automatically reinstall a stable driver during startup.

Step 3: Install the Latest Manufacturer Drivers

Generic drivers provided through Windows may not always be the best option.

Visit the support website for your computer or hardware manufacturer.

Download the newest drivers for your graphics card, chipset, storage controller, network adapter, and other important hardware.

Install each driver one at a time.

Restart your computer whenever prompted.

Once all updates are complete, continue using your computer normally to verify that the stop code no longer appears.

UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION

The UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION stop code usually indicates a problem involving your storage drive. It may also be caused by damaged system files, outdated storage drivers, antivirus software, or a failing SSD.

Step 1: Check the Health of Your Storage Drive

A failing storage drive can cause Windows to crash unexpectedly.

Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Run the following command: chkdsk C: /f /r
Press Enter.
Schedule the scan if Windows requests it.
Restart your computer.
Allow the scan to finish completely.

If Windows reports numerous bad sectors or recurring drive errors, your SSD or hard drive may be nearing the end of its lifespan and should be backed up as soon as possible.

Step 2: Disable Fast Startup

Although Fast Startup helps Windows boot more quickly, it occasionally contributes to storage-related issues.

Click the Start button.
Type Control Panel.
Open Control Panel.
Select Power Options.
Click Choose what the power buttons do.
Select Change settings that are currently unavailable.
Locate the Turn on fast startup option.
Clear the checkbox beside it.
Click Save changes.
Restart your computer.

Observe whether the blue screen returns after disabling this feature.

Step 3: Update Storage Controller Drivers

Storage controller drivers allow Windows to communicate correctly with your SSD or hard drive.

Open Device Manager.
Expand IDE ATA/ATAPI Controllers or Storage Controllers, depending on your computer.
Right-click the storage controller.
Select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for drivers.

If Windows installs a newer version, restart your computer afterward.

If your computer manufacturer provides a newer storage driver on its support website, install that version instead for the best compatibility.

INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE

The INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE stop code appears when Windows cannot access the drive that contains the operating system during startup. Since Windows cannot read the files required to boot, it immediately displays a blue screen.

This error may occur after a Windows update, changing BIOS settings, installing a new SSD or hard drive, updating storage drivers, or because of file system corruption.

Step 1: Disconnect External Storage Devices

Sometimes your computer tries to start from a USB drive or an external hard drive instead of your Windows drive.

Turn off your computer completely.

Disconnect every external storage device connected to your computer. This includes USB flash drives, external hard drives, memory cards, portable SSDs, and DVD drives.

Leave only your keyboard, mouse, monitor, and power cable connected.

Turn on the computer again.

If Windows starts normally, reconnect your external devices one at a time after the desktop appears. If the error returns after connecting a specific device, that device or its boot information may be causing the issue.

Step 2: Check the Boot Order in BIOS or UEFI

Your computer must be configured to start from the drive that contains Windows.

Completely turn off your computer.

Turn it back on.

Immediately begin pressing the key that opens the BIOS or UEFI setup. Depending on your computer manufacturer, this key may be F2, Delete, F10, or Esc.

Once the BIOS or UEFI screen appears, locate the Boot menu. Find the list of available storage devices.

Confirm that the SSD or hard drive containing Windows is listed as the first boot device.

If another device appears first, change the boot order so your Windows drive is at the top.

Save the changes. Exit the BIOS or UEFI. Allow your computer to restart.

If the incorrect boot device was selected, Windows should now load normally.

Step 3: Run Startup Repair

If Windows still cannot start, use the Windows Recovery Environment to repair startup files.

Turn on your computer.

If Windows fails to start several times, it should automatically display the Automatic Repair screen.

Select Advanced options.
Choose Troubleshoot.
Select Advanced options again.
Click Startup Repair.

Choose your Windows installation if prompted.

Windows will now examine important startup files, boot records, and configuration settings.

This process may take several minutes.

Allow it to complete without turning off the computer.

When Startup Repair finishes, restart your PC and check whether Windows loads successfully.

WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR

The WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR stop code usually points to a hardware-related problem. It may be caused by an overheating processor, unstable memory, a failing SSD, outdated BIOS firmware, or damaged motherboard components.

Although this stop code sounds serious, it does not always mean that hardware needs to be replaced. Many systems begin working normally after updating drivers or improving cooling.

Step 1: Check for Overheating

Excessive heat is one of the most common causes of hardware instability.

If your computer feels unusually hot or the cooling fan is constantly running at high speed, allow the computer to cool down.

Turn off your computer.

If you have a desktop computer, remove dust from the cooling fans and air vents using compressed air.

If you use a laptop, make sure the ventilation openings are not blocked by blankets, pillows, or other soft surfaces.

Place the laptop on a hard, flat surface while using it.

After cleaning the vents, turn the computer back on and continue using it normally.

If the blue screen no longer appears, overheating may have been the cause.

Step 2: Update Chipset Drivers and BIOS

Motherboard manufacturers frequently release updates that improve hardware compatibility and system stability.

Open your web browser.
Visit your computer manufacturer’s support website.
Search for your computer model.
Download the latest Chipset Driver.
Install it by following the instructions provided by the installer.
Next, check whether a newer BIOS version is available.
Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before updating the BIOS.

A BIOS update should never be interrupted because doing so may prevent the computer from starting.

Restart your computer after completing the updates.

Step 3: Test Your Hardware Components

If the problem continues, test your hardware one component at a time.

Run Windows Memory Diagnostic to check the RAM.

Run CHKDSK to examine your storage drive.

If you recently installed new hardware such as additional RAM or a graphics card, temporarily remove it if possible and see whether the problem disappears.

If the blue screen continues even after completing these checks, the issue may involve the motherboard, processor, or power supply. In that situation, professional hardware diagnostics may be necessary.

DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION

The DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION stop code commonly appears because Windows waits too long for a storage driver or hardware component to respond. It often occurs after installing outdated drivers, replacing storage devices, or updating Windows.

Fortunately, this stop code can usually be fixed without reinstalling Windows.

Step 1: Update Storage Controller Drivers

Storage controller drivers allow Windows to communicate with your SSD or hard drive.

Click the Start button.
Type Device Manager.
Open Device Manager.
Expand Storage Controllers or IDE ATA/ATAPI Controllers, depending on your computer.
Right-click the storage controller.
Select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for drivers.

Allow Windows to search for available updates.

If Windows installs a newer driver, restart your computer.

If your computer manufacturer offers a newer storage controller driver on its support website, install that version for the best compatibility.

Step 2: Update SSD Firmware

Firmware is the internal software that controls how an SSD operates.

Visit the support website for your SSD manufacturer.
Download the recommended firmware update utility.
Install the utility.
Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
Do not turn off your computer during the firmware update.
Once the update is complete, restart your computer.

Firmware updates often improve reliability, compatibility, and performance.

Step 3: Check Windows for Corrupted Files

Damaged Windows files may also contribute to this stop code.

Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Type the following command: sfc /scannow
Press Enter.
Wait for the scan to complete.
If Windows repairs corrupted files, restart your computer.
Next, run the following command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Allow the repair process to finish completely.
Restart your computer once more.

These repair tools restore damaged Windows components that could be causing repeated crashes.

FAQs

What is a Windows Stop Code?

A Windows Stop Code is an error message displayed during a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). It identifies the reason Windows stopped working and helps determine which troubleshooting steps should be performed.

Are Windows Stop Codes caused by viruses?

Sometimes. Malware can damage important Windows files, interfere with drivers, or corrupt system settings, which may eventually result in a blue screen. Running a complete malware scan using a trusted security application is recommended if you suspect an infection.

Can outdated drivers cause BSOD errors?

Yes. Outdated, incompatible, or corrupted drivers are among the most common reasons Windows displays a stop code. Regularly updating drivers from your computer or hardware manufacturer’s website helps improve system stability.

Will reinstalling Windows fix every Stop Code?

No. Reinstalling Windows can repair software-related problems such as corrupted system files or damaged settings. However, if the stop code is caused by faulty RAM, a failing SSD, overheating, or another hardware issue, reinstalling Windows will not solve the problem.

What should I do if the Stop Code keeps appearing?

If the same stop code continues after following the recommended fixes, carefully note the exact error name shown on the blue screen. Check whether new hardware or software was installed before the problem started. If necessary, back up your important files and perform more advanced hardware testing or contact your computer manufacturer’s support team.

Is it safe to continue using my computer after a BSOD?

If the blue screen occurred only once and does not return, your computer may continue to work normally. However, if the same stop code appears repeatedly, you should troubleshoot it as soon as possible because repeated crashes can eventually damage files or indicate failing hardware.

How can I reduce the chances of getting Windows Stop Codes?

Keeping Windows updated, installing the latest drivers, scanning regularly for malware, avoiding unexpected power interruptions, maintaining enough free storage space, cleaning dust from your computer, and monitoring system temperatures can greatly reduce the likelihood of future BSOD errors.

Summary

A Windows Stop Code is Windows’ way of protecting your computer when it detects a serious problem. Although the blue screen may seem alarming at first, the stop code itself provides an important clue about what went wrong. Whether the issue is caused by corrupted system files, faulty memory, damaged storage, outdated drivers, or failing hardware, identifying the stop code is the first step toward finding the correct solution.

Throughout this guide, you learned how to troubleshoot some of the most common Windows Stop Codes, including IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED, SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION, PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA, MEMORY_MANAGEMENT, KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED, UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION, INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE, WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR, and DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION.

Each solution focused on simple methods such as updating drivers, repairing Windows files, checking your storage drive, testing memory, reviewing BIOS settings, and installing the latest system updates.

The best way to prevent future blue screen errors is through regular maintenance. Keep Windows fully updated, install the latest drivers from trusted manufacturers, scan your computer for malware, maintain sufficient free storage space, and monitor your computer for signs of overheating or failing hardware. Creating regular backups of your important files is also a good habit because it protects your data if unexpected hardware failures occur.

By understanding what each Windows Stop Code means and following the appropriate troubleshooting steps, you can solve many BSOD problems yourself and keep your Windows computer running reliably for years to come.