Steps to Resolve the WIN32K_CRITICAL_FAILURE Error

2024/11/11

The WIN32K_CRITICAL_FAILURE error, accompanied by a bug check code of 0x164, arises from issues linked to the Win32k.sys driver in Windows. This driver plays a pivotal role in handling user-mode graphics, core graphical elements, and window management. Typically, this error signals problems with the graphics subsystem or challenges in the interaction between Windows and your hardware.

Begin by verifying that all system components are properly installed, particularly any new additions, and ensure there is no dust or debris within the cabinet. If you’ve overclocked your system, instability could arise, so revisit your settings and adjust them as needed.

How to Resolve the WIN32K_CRITICAL_FAILURE Error

1. Update Your Graphics Driver

Press Windows + R to launch the Run dialog.
Enter devmgmt.msc and press OK to access the Device Manager.
Within the device list, find and expand Display adapters.
Right-click on your graphics driver and select Update driver from the dropdown menu.
Select Search automatically for drivers and follow the prompts to finalize the process.

Windows will attempt to find the most suitable driver; if unsuccessful, visit the manufacturer’s website for the latest version. Alternatively, consider utilizing a dependable driver updater tool to ensure your drivers are current. In cases where a recent update could be the culprit of the WIN32K_CRITICAL_FAILURE error, you can revert to an earlier driver version:

Open Device Manager again, and expand Display adapters.
Right-click on the graphics driver and choose Properties.
Navigate to the Driver tab and click the Roll Back Driver button.
Select the reason for the rollback on the subsequent screen and confirm by clicking Yes.

2. Look for Windows Updates

Press Windows + I to bring up the Settings application.
Navigate to Windows Update and click the Check for Updates button.
If an update is available, select Download & install to upgrade your system and restart if prompted.

3. Execute the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

Press the Windows key, type windows memory diagnostic in the search field, and select Open from the options.
Click on Restart now and check for problems.
The system will reboot and check for memory problems during the startup process.

After the scan concludes, log in to your computer normally to view the results. If any issues are detected, you may need to reseat your RAM and perform another scan. Repeated errors may indicate that a RAM replacement is necessary.

4. Run an SFC Scan

Press the Windows key, type cmd in the search box, and select Run as administrator from the list.
To check for and repair missing or corrupted system files, enter the command: sfc /scannow and hit Enter .
Wait for the command to finish and then restart your computer to apply the changes.

5. Disable Hardware Acceleration

Press Windows + I to open the Settings.
Go to System, then select Display.
Scroll down to find Related settings and click on Graphics.
In the Default settings section, select Change default graphics settings.
On the following screen, locate Hardware accelerated GPU scheduling and turn it off.
Restart your computer to effect these changes.

You may also want to disable hardware acceleration in applications like Chrome and Office to alleviate the WIN32K_CRITICAL_FAILURE error.

6. Perform a Clean Boot of Your Computer

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
Type msconfig and click OK to access the System Configuration window.
Navigate to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
Switch to the Startup tab and click on Open Task Manager.
In the Task Manager, select each Enabled item individually and click Disable, then close the window.
Return to the System Configuration window, click Apply and then OK to save changes.
Click on Restart to reboot your PC in a clean boot state.

After the reboot, enable each service and startup item one at a time to pinpoint the source of the BSOD error. If none of these elements seem to cause the issue, you can revert these steps to return your PC to normal mode.

7. Reinstall Windows

Creating Installation Media

Using another computer, visit the Microsoft Software Download page and click on Download Now.
After downloading, double-click the tool to open and confirm on the UAC prompt.
In the Windows 11 Setup, click Accept to consent to the licensing agreements.
Insert your USB flash drive, select the USB flash drive option, and proceed by clicking Next.
Choose the desired language, edition, and architecture, then click Next.
Select the USB device and click Next.
Follow the remaining on-screen instructions, click Finish, and safely eject the USB drive.

Reinstalling Windows

Connect the USB drive to the problematic computer and press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
Navigate to the USB drive’s root directory, locate the setup.exe file, and double-click it, then select Yes.
Click on Change and choose one of the following options:
- Keep personal files and apps – Retain personal data, applications, and settings.
- Keep personal files only – Maintains data and settings but removes apps.
- Keep nothing – Deletes all settings, data, and applications.
Select your option and click Install to start reinstalling Windows 11.

Your machine will restart several times, leading you to the login screen. If all else fails, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for further assistance.

In summary, resolving the WIN32K_CRITICAL_FAILURE error involves ensuring that all CPU components are securely in place, ensuring your Windows system is updated, running an SFC scan, conducting a memory diagnostic, updating the graphics driver, disabling hardware acceleration, among other potential solutions.

If you frequently encounter BSoD errors, understanding their common causes may help. For thorough information, consult this guide.

If you have any inquiries or feedback regarding this BSoD error, feel free to share them in the comments below.

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