Windows crashes with a blue screen (BSOD)

Possible solutions

Choose the method that matches your situation. Start with the simplest suitable option and check the result. If the problem is fixed, you do not need to continue with the other methods.

1. Reverting a recently changed driver

   If the BSOD started after a specific update, roll back only the change related to it.

   Steps to follow

   1. Remember what you installed or updated before the first failure. Write down the name of the app or device.
   2. If it's an app, go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps and find just that app. Save her documents first.
   3. Use its official update or "Remove". If it's a driver, in Device Manager, select its Properties > Driver > Roll back driver if allowed.
   4. Reboot and check if the same error occurs again. If you don't know the change, don't uninstall random programs or drivers.

2. Memory and storage check

   If the error repeats itself in various ways, check the RAM and disk according to the STOP code; save the files first.

   Steps to follow

   1. First, copy important files to another media if the system is stable. If the drive disappears or crashes, stop the self-tests.
   2. To check RAM, save your work, Windows+R type mdsched.exe and select reboot and check.
   3. Let the test finish and note if it finds any errors. One short successful test does not rule out all instability.
   4. For disk information, right-click Start > Device Manager > Disk Devices and write down the model; in its manufacturer's tool, check the health status without applying a wipe or a long test.
   5. If errors are found or the failure occurs again, report the results to the technician. Do not disassemble the RAM, sockets or power supply yourself.

3. Recovery environment

   If Windows does not boot, use recovery options with a copy and the required encryption key.

   Steps to follow

   1. In the available login window, hold Shift and click Power > Restart; if it doesn't boot, open the Windows recovery USB option to Repair your computer.
   2. Get a recovery key for the encrypted drive and a copy of the files. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup settings > Restart.
   3. Select 4 or F4 safe mode if provided. You may need your account password instead of a PIN to sign in.
   4. Compare performance; if stable, check for a recently updated driver. Usually, rebooting will return you to normal mode.