6 Effective Solutions to Resolve the KERNEL_STORAGE_SLOT_IN_USE Error

The KERNEL_STORAGE_SLOT_IN_USE bug check error, identified by the code 0x00000199, indicates that a storage slot cannot be released because it remains active. This issue typically arises due to conflicts with hardware drivers, missing or damaged system files, or complications stemming from third-party applications.

To start troubleshooting, reboot your computer, as this can resolve any momentary issues that might be impacting performance. Next, check for any pending Windows updates since these may include patches that address kernel storage problems. Additionally, conduct a malware scan using a trusted antivirus program.

How to Resolve the KERNEL_STORAGE_SLOT_IN_USE Error

1. Update Device Drivers

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
   

   

2. Enter devmgmt.msc and click OK to access the Device Manager.
3. Expand each device category in the list to find any drivers marked with a yellow triangle and an exclamation mark.
4. Once identified, right-click the problematic driver and choose Update driver.
5. Select the option to search automatically for updated drivers and follow the onscreen prompts to complete the update. Repeat for any additional drivers that are problematic.

Windows will attempt to locate the most suitable driver version. If it fails, visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver manually. Alternatively, consider using a dependable driver updater tool to ensure all drivers are current.

If you find that your drivers are already updated but the problem persists, you may need to reinstall the affected drivers:

1. Reopen Device Manager, locate the driver, right-click it, and select Uninstall device.
2. Confirm the uninstallation by clicking Uninstall.
3. Navigate to Action and select Scan for hardware changes.

2. Execute SFC & DISM Scans

1. Press the Windows key, type cmd into the search bar, and right-click the result to select Run as administrator.
2. To repair corrupted system files, execute the command: sfc /scannow.
3. After the scan completes, type and execute: Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth to fix system image files.
4. Allow the scan to finish, and restart your PC to see if the KERNEL_STORAGE_SLOT_IN_USE error has been resolved.

3. Check for Disk Errors

1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and run it as an administrator.
2. To identify and rectify disk errors and damaged sectors on RAM, enter the command: chkdsk /f /r.
3. If prompted, schedule a restart by typing Y and pressing Enter.

After a restart, the scan will commence, checking for any bad sectors. Should issues be detected, consider resetting your RAM and rechecking. If problems continue, the faulty RAM may need replacing.

4. Restore Your PC to a Previous Version

1. Press the Windows key, type control panel, and click Open.
2. Set View by to Large icons and select Recovery.
3. Click on the Open System Restore link.
4. Choose Choose a different restore point in the System Restore menu, then click Next.
5. Select a restore point prior to the occurrence of the KERNEL_STORAGE_SLOT_IN_USE error and click Next.
6. Finalize by clicking Finish.

Your system will then restart and revert to the selected restore point. If you encounter a message indicating that System Restore was unsuccessful, it may be due to driver conflicts or corrupted files. Refer to a relevant guide for assistance.

5. Reset Your Windows Installation

1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to System, then select Recovery.
3. Find the option to Reset this PC and click the Reset PC button.
4. You’ll see two options: Keep my files or Remove everything. Choose one.
5. Select Cloud download or Local reinstall for reinstallation.
6. Review the settings you selected on the Additional settings screen, then click Next.
7. When prompted on the Ready to reset this PC screen, click Reset.

Throughout this process, system files will be reinstalled, and your PC may reboot multiple times, so patience is necessary. If you opt to delete drivers and applications or adjust settings, remember to reinstall apps, update drivers, and reconfigure settings afterward.

To summarize, addressing the KERNEL_STORAGE_SLOT_IN_USE error requires updating device drivers, performing SFC and DISM scans, checking for disk errors, restoring the system to a previous state, or resetting Windows.

Did you encounter a BSoD error following a Windows upgrade?

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