Resolve Blue Screen Issues After Installing Graphics Driver on Windows 11 and 10

2024/06/23

Key Notes

Conduct a memory test to check for RAM issues.
Utilize the rollback driver feature in Device Manager.
Review BSOD error logs for a deeper understanding of the issue.

Resolving Blue Screen Errors After Updating Graphics Drivers on Windows

Experiencing the frustration of a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) right after installing your latest graphics driver on Windows? This guide will provide you with effective solutions to troubleshoot and resolve these errors, ensuring a smoother performance of your PC.

How to Fix Blue Screen Errors After Installing Graphics Drivers on Windows 10/11

Step 1: Thoroughly Test Your RAM

Verifying your RAM is crucial, as faulty RAM can lead to various error messages during BSOD events, such as “MSPRC STATE VIOLATION” or “REFS_FILE_SYSTEM”.To gauge the condition of your RAM, follow these steps:

Open Windows Search and enter “Windows Memory Diagnostic”.
Select Restart now and check for problems (recommended).
Your computer will reboot, starting the diagnostic tool. After the test, your system will resume normally.
To review the results, navigate to Windows + X and access Event Viewer. If you find errors reported in your RAM, it’s time to replace it.

Pro Tip: Conduct this test when you can spare some downtime, as it requires a reboot.

Step 2: Revert the Driver

If your RAM checks out fine, the next step is to revert back to the previous graphics driver version. This may help eliminate the BSOD errors. Here’s how:

Press Windows + X and choose Device Manager.
Expand the Display adapters section, right-click on your graphics driver, and choose Properties.
Navigate to the Driver tab, click on Roll Back Driver, and follow the on-screen prompts.

If you notice the Rollback Driver option isn’t available, explore other solutions as well.

Pro Tip: Download the latest compatible driver from the GPU or motherboard manufacturer’s website if the rollback fails.

Step 3: Analyze BSOD Log Files

Gaining insights from BSOD logs can help pinpoint the source of the problem. Follow these actionable steps:

Press Windows + X and select Event Viewer.
Navigate to Action > Create Custom View.
In the Logged dropdown, select your desired timeframe.
Under Event level, pick Error from the By log dropdown and click OK.
Name the filter (e.g., BSOD logs) and confirm your action.
On the next page, review any errors logged during your selected timeframe for BSOD-related codes.

Pro Tip: Consider using the BlueScreenView tool to automatically scan minidump files for BSOD information in a user-friendly format.

Step 4: Conduct a Clean Boot

A clean boot helps eliminate software conflicts that can lead to errors. Here’s how to execute this method:

Disabling startup programs and non-Microsoft services allows Windows to run with minimal drivers, which can reveal the underlying issue.

Step 5: Reset Your PC

As a last resort, consider resetting Windows. This will erase all files in the C Drive and alter Windows settings. Follow these steps:

Back up important files on your C Drive.
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
Select Get started under Reset this PC.

Caution: Ensure you back up all necessary files before proceeding with the reset, as this is irreversible.

Additional Tips

Ensure your Windows system is always up to date.
Utilize safe mode to run system diagnostics when in trouble.
Keep an eye on hardware temperatures to prevent overheating issues.

Summary

This guide outlines effective solutions for resolving blue screen errors that may occur after installing graphics drivers on Windows 10 and 11. From performing memory tests to driver rollbacks and analyzing BSOD logs, these strategies offer a comprehensive approach to troubleshooting.

Conclusion

Experiencing blue screen errors can be frustrating; however, with the right steps, you can resolve the issues stemming from graphic driver installations. Remember to check your hardware, analyze logs for precise causes, and consider a system reset as a final method of resolution. Don’t hesitate to act on the suggestions listed above to restore stability to your Windows system.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can BSOD damage the GPU?

No, BSOD does not damage the GPU; it serves as a warning to help diagnose hardware or software issues.

Can overheating GPU cause BSOD?

Yes, an overheating GPU can trigger BSOD due to hardware failure or system instability.