Blue Screen (BSOD) Errors in Windows – How to Fix Them Step-by-Step

Identify the error code

The error code tells you exactly what Windows was doing when it crashed. This is your most important clue.

• Common codes include CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED and MEMORY_MANAGEMENT
• Take a photo of the screen or note down the exact code before the PC restarts
• Search the code online for more specific guidance once you have it

Check recent changes

BSODs often start immediately after something changes on your system.

• Did this start after a Windows update?
• Did you install new software recently?
• Did you add or change any hardware?
• If yes to any of these, that change is likely the cause, try reversing it

Run System File Check

Corrupted Windows system files are a common trigger for blue screens.

• Right-click Start and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Terminal (Admin)
• Type the following and press Enter:

• Wait for the scan to complete, it may take several minutes

Run DISM repair

If SFC finds issues it can't fix, DISM can repair the underlying Windows image.

• Right-click Start and open Command Prompt (Admin)
• Run the following command:

• Wait for it to complete, then restart and run SFC again

Update drivers manually

Outdated or corrupt drivers, particularly display and network drivers, are a leading cause of BSODs.

• Right-click Start and open Device Manager
• Check Display adapters and Network adapters
• Right-click each one and select Update driver

Test your RAM

Faulty memory is one of the most common causes of repeated blue screens.

• Press Start and type Windows Memory Diagnostic
• Choose to restart now and check for problems
• Windows will scan your RAM on boot and report any errors

Check disk health

A failing hard drive can cause BSODs, especially if the error code is storage-related.

• Open Command Prompt (Admin)
• Run the following command:

• You may be prompted to schedule this for the next restart, accept and restart

Remove recently installed programs

Some software installs drivers or services that conflict with Windows.

• Press Windows + R and type appwiz.cpl
• Sort programs by installation date
• Uninstall anything installed around the time the blue screens started