Blue Screen of Death: causes, error codes and solutions

What is a Blue Screen of Death?

When you encounter a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), you need to do four things: note the error code, revert recent software changes, run Windows Memory Diagnostic, and run sfc /scannow to repair system files. The four most common error codes are MEMORY_MANAGEMENT (RAM issue), DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (driver error), CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED (damaged system files) and NTFS_FILE_SYSTEM (disk problem).

Common error codes and their causes

MEMORY_MANAGEMENT

Points to a problem with RAM. Causes: a faulty memory module, incompatible RAM or incorrect memory settings in the BIOS.

DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

A driver is trying to access memory it shouldn't. Often caused by a recently installed or corrupted driver.

CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED

An essential Windows system process has unexpectedly stopped. May indicate damaged system files or malware.

NTFS_FILE_SYSTEM

Problems with the hard drive or file system. Can be a sign of a failing disk.

Step-by-step approach

1. Note the error code

The error code appears at the bottom of the blue screen. Write it down or take a photo — you'll need it for further investigation or when contacting an IT specialist.

2. Check recent changes

Have you recently installed an update, driver or new program? Remove it and see if the problem disappears.

3. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

Type Windows Memory Diagnostic in the start menu and run the test. This checks your RAM for errors.

4. Repair system files

Open the command prompt as administrator and run the following command:

sfc /scannow

This scans and automatically repairs damaged Windows system files.

5. Boot in safe mode

If Windows no longer starts normally, try safe mode (press F8 or Shift + F8 during startup). In safe mode, only the basic components are loaded, which helps isolate the cause.

When professional help is needed

If crashes keep recurring after the steps above, or if the error codes point to hardware (RAM, disk), professional investigation is recommended. Lams IT Solutions reads the crash logs and proposes a targeted solution — explore our IT Support services or call us directly.