Don’t you just hate it when your computer gets a Windows error blue screen of death! Sometimes it just keeps happening over and over again and usually without any warning. Unfortunately when your computer shows up with a blue screen it will usually be set to automatically shutdown the computer or sometimes restart it. This makes many people panic because they cannot see, or even have time to write down all of the information on that particular blue screen of death. It is more like a Windows nightmare blue screen of death!
Anyway, I am going to tell you how to stop your computer from restarting itself when it has a blue screen of death or any other Windows error. If you can just pause the blue screen of death you can write down the error codes that you need to use to troubleshoot your problem. This will give you time to evaluate the situation.
I am presuming that you do not need to see a picture of a blue screen because if you are searching for information about this problem then you have probably seen one before. Believe me it is not a pretty picture when you see it on your computer screen.
Pause the Windows error blue screen of death
Pausing the Windows error blue screen of death on your screen and stopping it from restarting can be done in all Windows versions. I do not use Windows XP at the moment, however I am sure that this option exists in that operating system as well.
How to pause the Windows error blue screen:
1. Go to the start menu in the left hand bottom corner. See the screen shot below where the Arrow is pointing.
2. Choose computer from the menu, but do not left click on it, we need to right click on it to bring the menu up.
3. From the menu that appears, choose properties. See the screen shot below.
4. This will bring up the system dialogue box. There is a different way to get to the system properties for Windows XP and that will be explained below.
5. Press on advanced system settings. See the screen shot below.
6. Now the systems properties will open. Press on the advanced tab.
7. Under the start-up and recovery section, press on settings. See the screen shot below for details.
8. The start up and recovery box will appear. Go to the system failure section.
9. Un-tick the box where it says automatically restart. See the screen shot below.
10. Press ok to finish.
Common causes of the Windows error blue screen of death
1. One of the most common causes of this error is a device driver problem.
2. Another cause of this is Windows error blue screen of death is a hardware malfunction. This could mean that you have a bad piece of memory installed, or maybe even a failing hard drive. This is exactly why we need to pause the Windows error blue screen to see the error code that appears on it.
Understanding Blue Screen of Death Error Codes
When people encounter the Windows Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error, they often don’t know which code to take note of. The crucial code is called a “stop code,” and here are a few examples:
- Stop 0x0000001E: KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED
- Stop 0x00000024: NTFS_FILE_SYSTEM
- Stop 0x0000007B: INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE
- Stop 0x00000050: PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA
- Stop 0x0000003B: SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION
- Stop 0x0000008E: KERNEL_MODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED
- Stop 0x000000F4: CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION
Steps to Take When You Encounter a BSOD
- Record the Stop Code:
- When the BSOD appears, note down the stop code displayed on the screen. This code is essential for diagnosing the issue.
- Restart Your Computer:
- Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary issues. However, if the BSOD recurs, further action is required.
- Search for Solutions Online:
- Use a search engine like Google to look up the stop code. Include any additional information from the error message in your search query. For example, you might search for “Stop 0x0000007B INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE solution.”
- Visit the Microsoft Support Website:
- The Microsoft support site provides a wealth of information on BSOD errors. Visit Microsoft Support and enter the stop code to find specific solutions and detailed explanations.
- Check Hardware and Software:
Another cause of this is Windows error blue screen of death is a hardware malfunction. This could mean that you have a bad piece of memory installed, or maybe even a failing hard drive. This is exactly why we need to pause the Windows error blue screen to see the error code that appears on it.
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- Hardware: Ensure all hardware components are properly connected and functioning. Run diagnostic tests on your hard drive and memory (RAM).
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- Software: Check for any recent software installations or updates that might be causing conflicts. Uninstall or update drivers and applications if necessary.
- Update Drivers and Windows:
- Outdated or corrupted drivers are a common cause of BSOD errors. Use the Device Manager to update drivers or visit the manufacturer’s website for the latest versions.
- Ensure that your Windows operating system is up-to-date with the latest patches and updates. Go to
Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
to check for updates. See how to access Windows Updates.
- Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM:
- Use the built-in System File Checker tool to scan and repair corrupted system files. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type
sfc /scannow
. - If SFC doesn’t resolve the issue, run the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM). Type
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
in Command Prompt.
- Use the built-in System File Checker tool to scan and repair corrupted system files. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type
- Seek Professional Help:
- If you’re unable to resolve the issue, consider seeking help from a professional technician. They can perform more in-depth diagnostics and repairs.
Common Causes of BSOD
- Driver Issues:
- Incompatible or outdated drivers can cause BSOD errors. Ensure all drivers are updated to the latest versions.
- Hardware Failures:
- Faulty hardware components such as RAM, hard drives, or graphics cards can lead to BSOD. Run hardware diagnostics to identify and replace failing components.
- Software Conflicts:
- Newly installed software or updates can sometimes conflict with existing system files, causing a BSOD. Roll back recent changes if necessary.
- Overheating:
- Overheating due to dust buildup, faulty fans, or poor ventilation can trigger a BSOD. Ensure your system is adequately cooled.
- Corrupted System Files:
- System files can become corrupted due to malware, power outages, or disk errors. Use SFC and DISM tools to repair corrupted files.
By following these steps and understanding the common causes of BSOD errors, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve these issues. Remember, keeping your system updated and regularly maintaining hardware and software can help prevent BSOD errors in the future.
I have seen the BSOD also happen when you totally run out of memory…which could be caused when you have bad physical memory like you said above. As always, great content! Fantastic article! Go Mitz!
You would never think that you could get a blue screen from running out of memory…And I never thought I would get a black screen from a bent pin on a keyboard plug.
LOL It can be any error. Lets all pray for errors!
I’ve changed the settings just now.
Your site is making my laptop awesome again 😛 .
I know so many tricks now.
But I will just trust you that it works, I don’t really feel the need to find out.