The infamous “blue screen of death” (abbreviated to BSoD) is a common error seen on Windows computers. It occurs when the system detects an unrecoverable critical error, and essentially shuts down the computer due to this error, displaying a blue screen with an error message. There are many potential causes for the BSoD, but most commonly they are related to hardware or driver issues.
In order to fix the blue screen of death, you must first determine the cause of the problem. Here are some of the most common solutions that can help resolve the BSoD:
1. Update drivers – The most common cause of the BSoD is outdated or corrupt drivers. Drivers are used by the operating system to communicate with hardware components, and any issue with these can cause the BSoD. Therefore, you should ensure your drivers are up-to-date and working correctly. You can do this by using a reputable driver updating tool, or manually downloading and installing the latest drivers from the manufacturers website.
2. Check RAM – Another common cause of the BSoD is faulty RAM, or Random Access Memory. In this case, you will need to check your RAM sticks for damage, or if you can, test them using diagnostic software. If either of these options detect a fault, you may need to replace your RAM.
3. Perform a system restore – This is a useful tool that restores your system to an earlier state in time. System Restore is useful if the issue is software-related, as it will undo any recent changes that may have caused the blue screen. To access System Restore, open the Start Menu and type ‘System Restore’ into the search bar. Follow the on-screen instructions to continue.
4. Scan for malware – Malware, or malicious software, is another possible cause of the BSoD. Malware such as viruses, worms and Trojans can cause critical errors and should be dealt with asap. To scan your system for malware, you can use a reputable anti-malware program, such as Malwarebytes or Microsoft Security Essentials.
5. Replace hardware – In some cases, if all other solutions fail, you may need to consider replacing the hardware component(s) causing the BSoD. This is normally only applicable for hardware-related issues, such as a failing hard drive, graphics card or motherboard. If you do decide to replace a hardware component, make sure to purchase compatible parts.
These are some of the most common solutions for fixing the blue screen of death. However, it is always best to consult with a professional if you are unsure about how to proceed. If you do decide to attempt the solutions yourself, make sure to back up important data beforehand, as there is no guarantee a solution will work.