Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors in Windows 7 can be frustrating and disruptive to your work. This guide covers the most common BSOD error codes, their meanings, and troubleshooting steps to resolve them.

Common BSOD Error Codes in Windows 7

STOP 0x0000000A: IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

Description: Occurs when a driver attempts to access a memory address without proper authorization. Usually caused by incompatible, damaged, or outdated drivers.

How to Fix:

  1. Boot into Safe Mode by pressing F8 during startup
  2. Update or reinstall problematic drivers through Device Manager
  3. Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool to check for RAM issues
  4. Use System Restore to revert to a stable configuration

STOP 0x0000001E: KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED

Description: Indicates a kernel-mode program generated an exception that error handlers couldn't catch. Often related to faulty drivers, memory problems, or hardware issues.

How to Fix:

  1. Check Windows Update for latest driver updates
  2. Scan for malware using Windows Defender or a reliable antivirus
  3. Check hardware components for proper connections
  4. Update BIOS to the latest version

STOP 0x00000024: NTFS_FILE_SYSTEM

Description: Indicates a problem with the NTFS file system. Usually relates to hard disk corruption or failing hardware.

How to Fix:

  1. Run Check Disk by opening Command Prompt (as administrator) and typing: chkdsk /f /r C:
  2. Test the hard drive for errors using manufacturer's diagnostic tools
  3. Boot into Safe Mode and run System File Checker: sfc /scannow
  4. Check hard disk connections or consider replacing the drive if failing

STOP 0x0000002E: DATA_BUS_ERROR

Description: Indicates hardware errors, often related to memory (RAM) failures.

How to Fix:

  1. Reseat RAM modules
  2. Run memory diagnostics using Windows Memory Diagnostic tool
  3. Replace faulty RAM if errors persist
  4. Check for overheating and improve system cooling

STOP 0x0000003F: NO_MORE_SYSTEM_PTES

Description: Occurs when the system runs out of Page Table Entries (PTEs), which map virtual addresses to physical addresses.

How to Fix:

  1. Update drivers, especially graphics and network drivers
  2. Remove unnecessary startup programs using MSConfig
  3. Add more physical RAM if possible
  4. Check for and remove malware

STOP 0x00000050: PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA

Description: Indicates the system tried to access a nonexistent piece of memory. Usually caused by faulty hardware or drivers.

How to Fix:

  1. Test RAM modules using Windows Memory Diagnostic
  2. Check for and remove incompatible or damaged hardware
  3. Update all drivers to the latest versions
  4. Use System Restore to revert to a working configuration

STOP 0x00000051: REGISTRY_ERROR

Description: Indicates corruption in the Windows registry.

How to Fix:

  1. Boot from Windows 7 installation disc and select "Repair your computer"
  2. Use System Restore to revert to a previous working state
  3. Use registry backup if available
  4. Run Check Disk utility to fix file system errors

STOP 0x00000074: BAD_SYSTEM_CONFIG_INFO

Description: This error indicates corruption in the Windows registry or system configuration data. It typically occurs when critical registry data is damaged, incorrectly modified, or when there are problems with boot configuration data.

How to Fix:

  1. Boot into Recovery Environment:

    • Insert Windows 7 installation disc and boot from it
    • Select "Repair your computer" when prompted

  2. Use System Restore:

    • In the Recovery Environment, select System Restore
    • Choose a restore point from before the BSOD started occurring

  3. Rebuild the BCD (Boot Configuration Data):

    • Access Command Prompt from Recovery Environment
    • Run these commands in sequence:
      bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /rebuildbcd

  4. Restore Registry Hives:

    • If you can access Command Prompt, navigate to:
      C:\Windows\System32\config\RegBack
    • Copy backup registry hives to replace corrupted ones

  5. Check and Repair Disk:

    • Run Check Disk by typing: chkdsk C: /f /r
    • Allow the process to complete, which may take some time

  6. Last Resort - Repair Install:

    • Perform a repair installation of Windows 7 using the installation media
    • This maintains your data and applications while replacing system files

This BSOD often occurs after inappropriate registry modifications or failed system updates. It's particularly common if registry cleaning tools are used improperly or if the system loses power during critical operations.

STOP 0x0000007B: INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE

Description: Windows cannot access the system partition during boot. Usually related to storage controller issues or disk corruption.

How to Fix:

  1. Check SATA/IDE controller settings in BIOS
  2. Update storage controller drivers
  3. Run Windows Startup Repair from the installation media
  4. Check hard drive connections and health

STOP 0x0000007E: SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED

Description: A system thread generated an exception that wasn't handled. Often caused by driver issues.

How to Fix:

  1. Boot into Safe Mode
  2. Uninstall recently installed drivers or software
  3. Update drivers for critical hardware components
  4. Run System File Checker (sfc /scannow)

STOP 0x0000007F: UNEXPECTED_KERNEL_MODE_TRAP

Description: Indicates hardware problems, such as memory, power supply issues, or overheating.

How to Fix:

  1. Check your system for overheating
  2. Ensure all hardware is properly seated and connected
  3. Test memory modules individually
  4. Reset BIOS to default settings

STOP 0x0000008E: KERNEL_MODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED

Description: Similar to 0x0000007E, indicates a kernel-mode program caused an unhandled exception.

How to Fix:

  1. Boot into Safe Mode with Networking
  2. Update device drivers, especially recently updated ones
  3. Run System File Checker
  4. Check for virus or malware infections

STOP 0x0000009F: DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE

Description: Occurs when a driver fails to complete a power state transition, often after resuming from sleep or hibernation.

How to Fix:

  1. Update or reinstall drivers for problematic devices
  2. Check Power Management settings in BIOS/UEFI
  3. Disable hibernation or sleep mode temporarily
  4. Update the BIOS to the latest version

STOP 0x000000C2: BAD_POOL_CALLER

Description: Indicates memory corruption, often caused by incompatible drivers.

How to Fix:

  1. Update device drivers, especially for recently installed hardware
  2. Run System File Checker
  3. Check for and remove malware
  4. Use System Restore to revert to a stable configuration

STOP 0x000000D1: DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

Description: A driver tried to access a specific memory location while running at an incorrect IRQL. Usually caused by faulty drivers.

How to Fix:

  1. Boot into Safe Mode
  2. Identify and update problematic drivers (check BSOD message for driver name)
  3. Roll back recently updated drivers
  4. Disable or remove recently installed hardware

STOP 0x000000F4: CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION

Description: A critical system process or thread was unexpectedly terminated.

How to Fix:

  1. Boot into Safe Mode
  2. Update antivirus software and run a full system scan
  3. Run Windows System File Checker
  4. Use System Restore to revert to a stable state

General BSOD Troubleshooting Steps

1. Boot into Safe Mode

  • Restart your computer and press F8 before Windows loads
  • Select "Safe Mode" or "Safe Mode with Networking"
  • This loads Windows with minimal drivers and services

2. Check for Recent Changes

  • Remove newly installed hardware
  • Uninstall recently installed software or drivers
  • Use System Restore to revert to a previous stable state

3. Update Drivers

  • Open Device Manager (right-click Computer > Properties > Device Manager)
  • Look for devices with yellow exclamation marks
  • Right-click problematic devices and select "Update Driver Software"

4. Run System File Checker

  • Open Command Prompt as administrator
  • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter
  • Wait for the scan to complete and repair corrupted system files

5. Check for Hardware Issues

  • Run Windows Memory Diagnostic (type "memory" in Start menu search)
  • Check disk health using Check Disk utility or manufacturer tools
  • Ensure proper cooling and check for overheating components

6. Use Windows Recovery Options

  • Boot from Windows 7 installation media
  • Select "Repair your computer"
  • Use Startup Repair, System Restore, or Command Prompt as needed

7. Update Windows

  • Ensure Windows 7 has all the latest updates installed
  • Check for important driver updates via Windows Update

Preventive Measures

  1. Keep Windows Updated: Install all Windows updates regularly
  2. Update Drivers Carefully: Only update drivers from manufacturer websites
  3. Monitor System Temperature: Use utilities to monitor and maintain proper cooling
  4. Backup Regularly: Create system images and backup important data
  5. Run Disk Cleanup: Regularly clean temporary files and check disk health
  6. Use Reliable Antivirus: Keep security software updated and run regular scans
  7. Avoid Overclocking: Unless you know what you're doing, avoid pushing hardware beyond specifications

Remember that Windows 7 reached end-of-support on January 14, 2020. For better security and stability, consider upgrading to a supported operating system like Windows 10 or 11.

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