A Blue Screen of Death is commonly known as the “Stop Error”. This issue only occurs when the situation is very serious and Windows must stop completely. Usually, the BSOD is a fault related to hardware or driver. Along with the Blue Screen of Death, a STOP code is displayed, which can assist in resolving the fault.
The first thing to see is if the PC restarted after the BSOD and before you could read the STOP code or the blue screen shows up while you restart. The blue screen has various errors in itself and all can be differed by the STOP code shown. However, you can refer to common troubleshooting steps to get rid of the fault. But in most cases, you will have to look for solutions for the specific STOP code.
Most of us have experienced this dreadful error at one point or the other. The issue is mainly related to hardware or software. The day to day software cannot cause the BSOD as if this software crashes it won’t crash the operating system. When the Blue screen occurs it crashes the system and restarts. This can also cause data loss which is why it is important to have a good backup system such as cloud-based or other.
Windows creates a file with the name as “minidump”, it is created when the BSOD error occurs. The file is saved on the hard disk which allows you to view the information the is related to the errors. This is very important as it shows the path of the issue which can help you rectify it.
How to Fix BSoD Error
Troubleshooting
Whenever you face the BSOD a stop code along with it will be displayed on the screen. The stop code helps you find the reason behind the issue. If you are unable to note down the STOP code as the PC keeps restarting, then you will need to disable automatic system restart that is initiated when the PC fails to function. Below are steps to disable automatic restart.
- Firstly go to the Control Panel and then to System and Security.
- Then go to the System and from there to Advanced System Settings from the left sidebar.
- In the pop-up menu click on the Advanced tab.
- Now click on Settings from Startup and Recovery section.
- From the System Failure section uncheck the option “Automatically Restart”.
- Then press OK.
Please note that steps to disable automatic restart may differ in Windows XP and Windows 7.
BSoD Solution 1 – Restore the System
When the computer starts blue screening it is important that you do not incur any data loss. If you have no data that is vital then system restore can be done. Restoring the system will take the computer back to the previous state. However, if you have some important data then it will have to be moved to an external hard disk or cloud storage. If you restore the PC to the previous state and the error disappears when the issue is caused due to some recent software installation. Although make sure you have created Restore Points.
BSoD Solution 2 – Malware Scan
Malware and viruses are one of the most common causes of the blue screen of death. What malware’s do is it get’s into your system and causes instability. This can harm your computer to a greater extent. Therefore, it is necessary to get rid of the virus using any anti-virus software. You can use the anti-virus software that you already use.
BSoD Solution 3 – Safe Mode
The reason to use the Safe Mode is that Safe Mode only loads the vital drivers. Therefore, if any new drivers are installed which may be the cause of the issue, then it should not raise any issues. Below are steps to enter into Safe Mode.
- Restart the computer and Hold Shift and press F8. This will open Recovery Mode.
- Select this following option “See Advanced Repair Options”.
- Click Troubleshoot and then select Advanced Options.
- Now, press on Windows Startup Setting and then Restart the computer.
If the computer runs perfectly fine then the issue has occurred due to recent software installations. It is best to uninstall that software and check if the error disappears.
BSoD Solution 4 – Hardware Issues
One of the common reasons you see the Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) Error is due to hardware problems. Check all the cards and internet cables and rest of the hardware components that are properly in position. As if they are not properly inserted it can’t communicative efficiently with other components. To find the faulty hardware is one of the most difficult tasks, one thing that points to the hardware issue is the overheating.
BSoD Solution 5 – Reinstall Windows
Once you have tried resolving the issue with all of the above methods, then the last resort is reinstall Windows OS. What this will do is substitute all the existing software with the new ones. The computer will have a completely fresh new system. After reinstalling Windows OS if you still suffer from the BSOD then it certainly is the hardware issue.
A PC will never see a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) error if it’s in the perfect condition. One hardware issue can make all the difference. At times even when the computer is working fine, it can show this issue due to minor bugs or faults either in the software or hardware. If you suffer from the blue screen once in a while then it is normal. However, if you see the error frequently you should reinstall the software or get your hardware checked. Try the above solutions and hopefully you will get rid of this frustrating BSOD error.
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