Resolve the DEREF_UNKNOWN_LOGON_SESSION Bug Check Error 0x46

Step 1: Uninstall Recently Installed Software

To begin, it’s advisable to remove any recently installed software that may have triggered the blue screen error.

1. Search for Control Panel in the Search box and open it.
2. Navigate to Programs and Features, and identify any software installed just before the issue surfaced.
3. Select the troublesome program and click Uninstall, following the prompts for completion.
4. After uninstalling, reboot your system.

Pro Tip: Remove multiple problematic applications if they were installed at the same time.

Step 2: Check for Faulty Hardware

Next, it’s crucial to inspect your hardware for potential issues that could be causing the error.

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Locate the computer icon at the top, right-click it, and choose Scan for hardware changes.
3. Identify any devices marked with a yellow exclamation mark indicating issues.
4. Right-click on the problematic device and choose Update driver to install any necessary updates.
5. If the issues persist, consider replacing any malfunctioning hardware.

Pro Tip: Inspect the interior of your PC for loose connections or dust buildup.

Step 3: Perform a System Restore

If the issue continues, a System Restore might be necessary to revert to a previous configuration.

1. Search for System Restore in the search box, select Create a restore point, and click on System Restore.
2. Choose a restore point from before the error occurred and follow the wizard to complete the process.
3. Validate your selection and allow the system to restore itself and reboot.

Pro Tip: Always keep multiple restore points to increase recovery options.

Step 4: Use Driver Verifier

Driver Verifier can pinpoint which drivers might be malfunctioning.

1. Search for cmd in the search bar, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
2. Enter verifier and press Enter.
3. Select Create standard settings and proceed to click Next.
4. Choose Automatically select all drivers installed on this computer, or choose specific drivers, then click Next.
5. Follow the prompts to restart your PC.
6. After running, review the output data to identify any problematic drivers.

Pro Tip: Use Driver Verifier in Safe Mode to minimize disruptions.

Step 5: Run System File Checker (SFC)

Lastly, you can use the System File Checker to rectify any corrupted system files.

1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. The system will scan for and attempt repairs on corrupted files.
3. After the scan completes, restart your PC to apply any fixes made.

Pro Tip: Running SFC may take a while; patience is key while the system repairs itself.

What causes the DEREF_UNKNOWN_LOGON_SESSION error?

How can I prevent the DEREF_UNKNOWN_LOGON_SESSION error from recurring?