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Fix Windows that has blue screen

We'll note the error code, update drivers, run memory diagnostic, and rule out overheating—or tell you when to call a pro.

Troubleshooting · Home maintenance
20–45 min
What you'll need
  • Temperature monitoring tool (HWiNFO, Open Hardware Monitor—optional)
Step 1 of 5

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Steps

Goal: Stop blue screens and isolate the cause.

  • Note the error code on the blue screen.
  • Update graphics and chipset drivers.
  • Run Windows Memory Diagnostic.

Note the error code

Goal: Identify the cause from the BSOD message.

  • Disable automatic restart so you can read the code.
  • Good: Code noted. Search it and update the related driver.
  • Bad: Update graphics and chipset; run memory diagnostic.

Update drivers

Goal: Rule out driver-related BSOD.

  • Device Manager → Display adapters → Update. Check manufacturer site for chipset.
  • Good: Drivers updated. Run memory diagnostic.
  • Bad: Update drivers first.

When to get help

Call a pro if:

  • Memory diagnostic reports errors.
  • Drivers are updated and BSOD continues.
  • The PC overheats after cleaning.

Verification

  • No blue screens during normal use.
  • Error code noted and cause addressed.
  • Memory diagnostic passes; drivers up to date.

Escalation ladder

Work from the device outward. Stop when the problem is fixed.

  1. Error code and drivers Note the error code; update graphics and chipset drivers.
  2. Memory diagnostic Run Windows Memory Diagnostic; check for RAM errors.
  3. Overheating and SFC Check temps; clean dust; run sfc /scannow.
  4. Call a pro Memory errors, drivers updated but BSOD continues, or hardware failure.

What to capture if you need help

Before calling support or posting for help, have these ready. It speeds everything up.

  • Error code from blue screen
  • When it happens (boot, under load, random)
  • Memory Diagnostic results (errors or pass)
  • Steps already tried

Did you note the error code on the blue screen?

The error code points to the cause.

Disable automatic restart if the screen flashes. Note the code (e.g. DRIVER_IRQL, PAGE_FAULT). Good: code noted—update drivers for that component. Bad: no code—update graphics and chipset, run memory diagnostic.

Yes No

You can change your answer later.

Disable automatic restart

Settings → System → About → Advanced → Startup and Recovery. Uncheck "Automatically restart." Reproduce the BSOD to note the code. Update drivers; run memory diagnostic.

Done

Have you updated graphics and chipset drivers?

Outdated drivers often cause BSOD.

Device Manager → Display adapters → Update. Check manufacturer site for chipset. Good: updated—run memory diagnostic. Bad: update first.

Yes No

You can change your answer later.

Update drivers

Update graphics and chipset drivers. Restart. Run memory diagnostic if BSOD continues.

Done

Does Memory Diagnostic report errors?

Failing RAM causes BSOD.

Run Windows Memory Diagnostic. Good: no errors—check temps, run SFC. Bad: RAM failing—replace or call pro.

Done

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

Frequently asked questions

Why would Windows have a blue screen?
Outdated or buggy drivers, failing RAM, overheating, corrupted Windows files, or hardware failure. Note the error code—it points to the cause.
Can I fix a blue screen myself?
Yes. Update drivers, run memory diagnostic, check temps, run SFC. If RAM or hardware is failing, a technician may be needed.
When should I call a technician for blue screen?
If memory diagnostic reports errors, drivers are updated and BSOD continues, or the PC overheats. RAM or hardware replacement may require a professional.

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