How to Fix a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on Windows

What Is a Blue Screen of Death?

A Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is a Windows error screen that appears when your computer encounters a serious problem it cannot recover from. The screen is blue and usually displays a sad face emoticon with an error message.

Common error codes you might see include:

• CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED
• SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION
• IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
• KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR
• DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION

Step 1: Note the Error Code

When the blue screen appears:

• Look for the Stop code at the bottom of the screen
• Write it down or take a photo with your phone
• This helps your IT team diagnose the problem faster

Step 2: Restart Your Computer

In most cases, Windows will restart automatically. If it does not:

• Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds
• Wait 30 seconds
• Press the power button to turn it back on

Step 3: Check If It Happens Again

If the blue screen only appeared once:

• It may have been a temporary glitch
• Continue using your computer normally
• If it happens again, proceed with the steps below

Step 4: Install Windows Updates

Outdated software can cause blue screens:

• Click Start > Settings > Windows Update
• Click Check for updates
• Install any available updates
• Restart your computer when prompted

Step 5: Check for Driver Updates

Faulty drivers are a common cause of BSODs:

• Right-click the Start button
• Select Device Manager
• Look for any devices with a yellow warning icon
• Right-click the device and select Update driver
• Choose Search automatically for drivers

Step 6: Undo Recent Changes

If the blue screen started after a recent change:

• New software: Uninstall any recently installed programs via Settings > Apps > Installed apps
• New hardware: Disconnect any recently connected devices (printers, USB devices, docking stations)
• Recent update: Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates

Step 7: Run System File Checker

Corrupted system files can cause blue screens:

• Right-click the Start button
• Select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin)
• Type `sfc /scannow` and press Enter
• Wait for the scan to complete (this may take 10-15 minutes)
• Restart your computer

Step 8: Check Your Hard Drive

A failing hard drive can cause blue screens:

• Open Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin)
• Type `chkdsk C: /f /r` and press Enter
• If prompted, type Y to schedule the check on next restart
• Restart your computer and let the check complete

When to Contact IT Support

Contact your IT team if:

• The blue screen happens more than once
• Your computer keeps restarting in a loop
• You cannot get past the blue screen
• The blue screen appeared after a Windows update
• You see the same error code repeatedly

Preventing Blue Screens

Keep Software Updated

• Install Windows updates regularly
• Keep your applications up to date

Avoid Untrusted Software

• Only install software approved by your IT team
• Be cautious with downloads from the internet

Monitor Your Computer's Health

• Ensure proper ventilation (do not block air vents)
• Restart your computer at least once a week
• Report any unusual behaviour to IT early

Need Help?

Contact our helpdesk at helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162. Have your error code ready to help us diagnose the issue faster.