Resolving ERROR_HIBERNATION_FAILURE on Windows: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Clear Unnecessary Disk Space

Begin by freeing up disk space to avoid potential hindrances during the hibernation process. Follow these steps:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console.
2. Type cleanmgr and hit Enter to access Disk Cleanup.
3. Choose the drive you wish to clean and confirm your choice.
4. Click on Clean up system files and select the same drive again.
5. Check all items under Files to delete and proceed with deletions by clicking OK.

Pro Tip: Regularly performing disk cleanups can improve system performance.

Step 2: Update Device Drivers for Compatibility

Outdated or incompatible drivers can lead to hibernation failures. Here’s how to update them:

1. Press Windows + R to invoke the Run window.
2. Type devmgmt.msc and click OK to open Device Manager.
3. Expand each category to find devices highlighted with yellow icons.
4. Right-click and choose Update driver for any problematic units.
5. Opt for Search automatically for drivers and implement the instructions provided.

Pro Tip: If Windows can’t find an updated driver, visit the manufacturer’s website directly.

Step 3: Re-Enable Hibernation Feature

To ensure hibernation works properly, re-enabling it is crucial. Follow these commands:

1. Search for cmd in the Start menu, right-click, and select Run as administrator.
2. Disable the feature by typing powercfg -h off in Command Prompt and pressing Enter.
3. Restart your PC, open Command Prompt again, and enter powercfg -h on to re-enable hibernation.
4. Finally, reboot your machine to apply these changes.

Pro Tip: Re-enabling hibernation may alleviate storage concerns tied to system memory.

Step 4: Inspect the Hibernation File

Checking the integrity of the hibernation file is also beneficial:

1. Open File Explorer via Windows + E.
2. Enable Hidden items from the View tab.
3. Navigate to your system drive (C:\) and locate the hiberfil.sys file.
4. Right-click and select Delete to remove the file.

Pro Tip: Deleting this file can encourage Windows to create a new, uncorrupted file during the next hibernation cycle.

Step 5: Review Power Settings

Incorrect power settings may contribute to hibernation failures:

1. Search for Control Panel and open it from the Start menu.
2. Set the view to Large icons, then select Power Options.
3. Click on Change plan settings next to your selected plan.
4. Opt for Restore default settings for this plan and confirm.

Pro Tip: Default settings often fix unforeseen hibernation issues.

Step 6: Boot Your PC in Clean Environment

A clean boot may help identify software conflicts affecting hibernation:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
2. Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
3. Switch to the Startup tab and select Open Task Manager.
4. Disable all startup items and return to System Configuration.
5. Click Apply and Restart your computer.

Pro Tip: After booting in this manner, reactivate services one by one to identify culprits.

Step 7: Restore Windows to Previous State

Should all else fail, restoring your computer may resolve the BSoD error:

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
2. Select Choose a different restore point and click Next.
3. Find a restore point prior to the issue and click on it to continue.
4. Finally, click Finish to initiate the restoration process.

Pro Tip: Regularly creating restore points can safeguard against future issues.

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