How to Fix AGP_ILLEGALLY_REPROGRAMMED Error: Step-by-Step Guide

Resolve the AGP_ILLEGALLY_REPROGRAMMED BSOD error effortlessly by utilizing the recommended techniques detailed below. Continue reading for more insights!

The most frequent hardware and software culprits behind a Blue Screen error involve the graphics processing unit (GPU) and its drivers. This issue typically results from inadequate programming or overclocking of AGP cards. However, various other factors can complicate matters.

After assessing numerous solutions, I’ve compiled the most effective strategies!

Understanding the AGP_ILLEGALLY_REPROGRAMMED Error

The AGP_ILLEGALLY_REPROGRAMMED error is a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) that manifests when Windows detects a mismatch between the expected and actual programming of the AGP card. To avert potential damage to your computer, the operating system halts the process, resulting in an abrupt Blue Screen accompanied by a Stop code.

STOP Code: AGP_ILLEGALLY_REPROGRAMMED

Bug Check Value: 0x00000106

Explanation: The Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) hardware has been altered without authorization.

Possible Causes

The primary reason for this BSOD error is incorrectly tested or malicious video drivers, which compel the AGP card to function outside its intended programming.

Other contributing factors may include:

• The AGP card or associated hardware is incompatible.
• Malware infection masquerading as a video driver for illicit cryptocurrency mining.
• External applications disrupting the graphics driver.
• Improper installation of the AGP card.

Steps to Fix the AGP_ILLEGALLY_REPROGRAMMED BSOD Error

To effectively troubleshoot the issue, follow these steps in sequence:

Fundamental Troubleshooting

• Restart or Shut Down: Turn off your computer and perform a power cycle or restart to check if the issue recurs.
• Power Cycle: If your PC is off, unplug all cables from your laptop or CPU case. For laptops, remove the battery if possible. Then, press and hold the power button for 30 seconds. Reconnect all cables to their original ports, power on the PC, and monitor its performance for a few hours.
• GPU Reset: Reinitialize the AGP card and its driver by pressing Windows + Ctrl + Shift + B. You may temporarily see a dark screen or observe a flicker on your display; some laptops may emit a beep sound.
• Update Windows: Access Windows Settings using Windows + I. Select Update or Update & Security from the menu, then click on Windows Update on the left navigation panel. Proceed by selecting Install updates, Resume updates, or Check for updates if any options are highlighted on the right.

• Update GPU Driver: Open Device Manager by typing it into the Start menu. In the interface, expand the Display adapters tree, right-click on your AGP card, and select Update driver. Choose the Search automatically for drivers option in the wizard that appears. Ensure that your PC is connected to the internet.

Download the Official GPU Driver from the Manufacturer’s Website

The most effective way to resolve the error is to install the latest official driver directly from the manufacturer’s site.

It’s advised not to uninstall your current video driver just yet, as doing so may disrupt display output or cause further issues.

Visit any of the following websites to obtain compatible drivers:

• NVIDIA
• AMD Radeon

If the drivers are packaged as an archive file (e.g., ZIP or RAR), extract the executable files to a designated folder.

Remove Any Recently Installed Video Driver

If your video driver was sourced from NVIDIA or AMD, you can remove it through the Apps menu. Follow these steps:

1. Go to the Apps & features section in Windows Settings > Apps by pressing Windows + I together.
2. In the Search this list field, type in NVIDIA or Radeon.

1. Choose the NVIDIA Graphics Driver application and click Uninstall.

1. Do not restart the PC even if prompted.
2. Remove any other applications featuring the NVIDIA name.
3. For AMD Radeon, the file names may vary.
4. Finally, you can reboot your computer.

Alternatively, you can utilize the Display Driver Uninstaller tool for a thorough uninstallation of video drivers and remnants. This tool is freely available.

Download it here and execute it. Select GPU from the Select device type dropdown.

Click on the Clean and restart button to completely uninstall the video driver, along with any temporary files, cache files, and registry entries.

Once you access your Desktop again, navigate to the Downloads folder and proceed with installing the newly downloaded AGP driver.

Remove Any Recently Added Hardware

If the previous strategies haven’t resolved the issue, the BSOD may be related to recently installed AGP, RAM, or other internal components. This step applies primarily to desktop systems:

1. Turn off your computer and disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet.
2. Next, unplug all cables from the computer case.
3. Eliminate any static electricity by touching a grounded metal surface.
4. For increased safety, consider wearing an anti-static wristband.
5. Now, remove the left-side cover of the CPU case.
6. For RAM, gently unlock the tabs on the RAM slot by maneuvering them.

1. Take out the newly added RAM.
2. If dealing with an AGP card, move the small white bar on the slot outward to unlock it.

1. Also, remove any screws fastening the AGP card from the inside back panel of the CPU case, known as the I/O panel.

1. Detach the AGP card from its slot.
2. Reinstall any existing hardware that may have been removed earlier.
3. Reconnect all cables and switch on your computer.
4. Monitor its performance over several hours to check if the issue resurfaces.

If the new hardware is compatible with your system, the error should not recur. In that case, consider exploring suitable alternatives to the AGP_ILLEGALLY_REPROGRAMMED error.

This same procedure can be utilized to detach and reattach existing components, often alleviating the BSOD issue.

Disable Fast Startup

Disabling fast startup can often rectify this error. Here’s how to do it:

1. Press Windows + I to access Settings.
2. Select System.
3. In the System window, click on Power & sleep.

1. Click on the Additional power settings link located under Related settings.
2. The Power Options dialog box will appear.
3. Click on Choose what the power buttons do.

1. Confirm that the Turn on fast startup checkbox is disabled.
2. To modify it, click Change settings that are currently unavailable.

1. Uncheck the Turn on fast startup option.
2. Click Save changes.
3. Restart your computer and observe for a few hours.

Utilize the Microsoft Safety Scanner Tool

The Microsoft Safety Scanner is a complimentary utility from Microsoft for detecting and removing malware. To proceed:

1. Navigate to the Microsoft Safety Scanner Download page.
2. Download the appropriate 32-bit or 64-bit version suitable for your system.
3. Press Windows + R to determine which version is needed.
4. Type msinfo32 and hit Enter.
5. For x64-based PC listed in the System Type, you require the 64-bit PC version.

1. Any other designation indicates a 32-bit PC.
2. Double-click the downloaded file.
3. Select Run in the Security Warning dialog.

1. Agree to the terms and click Next twice.
2. Choose Full scan and press Next.

1. Upon completion of the scan, the application will provide a report detailing any detected and removed malware.

Perform a Clean Boot

A Clean Boot state allows Windows to operate with only Microsoft services and background processes, making it effective for isolating third-party software that may be triggering the AGP_ILLEGALLY_REPROGRAMMED error.

1. Open the Run dialog by pressing Windows + R.
2. Input msconfig and press Enter.
3. The System Configuration panel will display.
4. Navigate to the Services tab.
5. Check the box for Hide all Microsoft services.
6. Next, click Disable all.

1. Navigate to the Startup tab.
2. Open Task Manager via the link provided in that tab.
3. In the Task Manager, proceed to the Startup tab.
4. Disable each active startup process by right-clicking and selecting Disable.

1. Close Task Manager.
2. Return to System Configuration and click Apply.
3. Restart your computer.

Restore Your PC

You may attempt to restore your PC to its most recent stable state. This option is only possible if the System Restore feature is enabled.

Windows typically creates restore points automatically when critical changes occur, such as new driver installations.

1. Press Windows + R to access Run.
2. Enter rstrui and press Enter.
3. The System Restore window will open.
4. You can opt for the Recommended restore option.

1. Alternatively, select Choose a different restore point and specify the desired date and time.
2. Once set, click Next.
3. Click Finish to proceed.

Your computer will reboot several times during this procedure. After returning to the Desktop, continue your previous activities to see if the BSOD reoccurs. Monitor the system closely for a few hours.

Replace the AGP Card

The AGP hardware may be faulty or its circuitry malfunctioning, potentially causing it to inadvertently alter its own programming.

If you have a friend with the same AGP card, consider borrowing theirs to test if the issue is resolved.

If the problem disappears, it may be time to purchase a new AGP card.

Reach Out to the Manufacturer for Warranty Support

Most AGP cards provide a 3-year warranty. Contact the manufacturer’s support to inquire about replacement or repair options. Here are links to support for major AGP manufacturers:

• Zotac
• MSI
• Gigabyte
• ASUS
• Sapphire
• PNY
• Suralallow
• XFX

For laptops or branded desktop computers, it’s recommended to contact the customer support of device manufacturers, such as Dell, HP, Acer, Lenovo, Asus, and MSI.

Conclusion

Now you are equipped to tackle the AGP_ILLEGALLY_REPROGRAMMED error.

Please share which approach worked for you below. If you have discovered a different solution that could benefit others, do mention it! Additionally, if you’re encountering a related issue like AGP_GART_CORRUPTION, I’m here to assist!

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