The ntoskrnl.exe BSOD error in Windows 11 is a critical system issue linked to the Windows NT operating system kernel. This error can appear with various bug check messages like:
CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIEDKERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILUREVIDEO_TDR_FAILURESYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED
These errors usually indicate problems such as corrupted drivers, recent Windows updates, incompatible third-party programs, or faulty hardware. Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and fix the error.
Quick Summary
| Cause | Fix |
|---|---|
| Recent Windows Update | Uninstall latest update |
| New Third-Party Software | Remove suspicious apps |
| Connected External Devices | Disconnect peripherals |
| Corrupted System Files | Run SFC and DISM utilities |
| Malware or Virus Infection | Perform a full scan |
| Overclocking Software | Remove or disable overclocking |
| RAM Issues | Use Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool |
| Persistent BSOD | Consider clean installing Windows 11 |
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
1. Uninstall Recent Windows Updates
If the BSOD started after a Windows update:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update History
- Scroll to the bottom and select Uninstall Updates
- Choose the update installed before the error occurred
- Click Uninstall and confirm
Restart your PC and check if the error is resolved.
2. Remove Third-Party Programs
Third-party apps like game launchers, media players, and even some browsers may conflict with system files.
- Right-click Start > Installed Apps
- Identify recent or suspicious apps (e.g., VLC, Revo Uninstaller, Firefox)
- Click the three dots and choose Uninstall
- Restart your PC
3. Disconnect External Devices
Remove all connected external hardware:
- USB drives
- External hard disks
- Joysticks
- Webcams
Then restart your PC to check if the BSOD still appears.
4. Repair System Files (SFC and DISM)
Run System File Checker (SFC):
- Search for
cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator - Type:
sfc /scannow - Press Enter and wait for it to finish
Run DISM Tools:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Restart after all commands complete.
5. Perform a Full Malware Scan
- Open Windows Security
- Go to Virus & threat protection > Scan options
- Select Full Scan and click Scan now
- For stronger results, use Microsoft Defender Offline Scan
6. Disable Overclocking
If using third-party overclocking tools, uninstall them.
To manually adjust settings:
- Open Control Panel > Power Options
- Click Change plan settings > Change advanced power settings
- Expand Processor Power Management
- Set Maximum Processor State to
99% - Apply and restart
7. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic
- Search for Windows Memory Diagnostic
- Select Restart now and check for problems
- Let the system check your RAM
Once rebooted, check results from the System Tray > Event Viewer logs.
8. Clean Install Windows 11 (Last Resort)
If none of the above work:
- Go to the Windows 11 Download Page
- Download the Media Creation Tool
- Choose ISO file
- Mount the ISO and run
setup.exe - Follow on-screen instructions to reinstall
FAQs
What causes the ntoskrnl.exe BSOD error?
Common causes include corrupted system files, outdated drivers, faulty hardware, or malware infections.
Can malware trigger this error?
Yes. Malware can corrupt essential kernel files or system configurations, causing a BSOD.
Will clean installing Windows delete my files?
If you choose a full clean install, yes. However, you can opt to keep your files during setup.
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