Windows users often encounter graphics-related issues, and one of the most frustrating is the VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR, which triggers the dreaded Blue Screen of Death. If you’re facing this error, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with several effective solutions to get your system back on track.
Method 1: Update graphics drivers
Outdated or corrupt graphics drivers are often the culprits behind this error. Here’s how to update them:
- Right-click the Start button and select “Device Manager”.
- Expand the “Display Adapters” section.
- Right-click on your graphics driver and choose “Uninstall device”.
- Check the box next to “Attempt to remove the driver for this device” and click “Uninstall”.
- Restart your PC. Windows should automatically install a suitable driver, but you can also download the latest version from your GPU manufacturer’s website for optimal performance.
Method 2: Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Windows has built-in tools to diagnose and fix hardware issues. Here’s how to use the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter:
- Press Win + R, type
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic, and hit Enter.
- In the troubleshooter window, click “Next”.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any recommended fixes.
- Restart your computer after the process completes.
Method 3: Perform DISM and SFC scans
System file corruption can trigger various errors. Use these built-in Windows utilities to repair system files:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Run the following command:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
- After it completes, run:
sfc /scannow
- Restart your PC once both scans finish.
Method 4: Update DirectX
An outdated DirectX version can cause graphics-related errors. Here’s how to update it:
- Visit the Microsoft DirectX download page and click “Download”.
- Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to update DirectX.
Method 5: Disable Fast Startup
Fast Startup can sometimes cause boot-related issues. Here’s how to turn it off:
- Open Control Panel and go to “Power Options”.
- Click “Choose what the power buttons do”.
- Click “Change settings that are currently unavailable”.
- Uncheck “Turn on fast startup” and click “Save changes”.
Method 6: Perform a clean boot
A clean boot can help identify if a third-party application is causing the error:
- Press Win + R, type
msconfig, and run as administrator. - In the System Configuration window, go to the “Services” tab and check “Hide all Microsoft services”.
- Click “Disable all”.
- Go to the “Startup” tab and click “Open Task Manager”.
- Disable all startup items in Task Manager.
- Restart your PC and check if the error persists.
Method 7: Use System Restore
If you have a restore point from before the error started occurring, you can use it to revert your system:
- Type “system restore” in the Start menu and click “Recovery”.
- Click “Open System Restore”.
- Follow the wizard to choose a restore point and complete the process.
Method 8: Reset your PC
As a last resort, you can reset Windows to its default state:
- Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
- Click “Reset PC”.
- Choose “Remove everything” for a clean slate.
- Select “Local reinstall” unless you prefer to download the latest Windows version.
Additional tips:
- If you have both integrated and dedicated graphics, try setting one as default in BIOS.
- Run a memory diagnostic to rule out RAM issues.
- Check hardware components, especially power supply and RAM.
- Remove recently installed software that might be causing conflicts.
- Perform a thorough malware scan using a reliable antivirus program.
By following these methods, you should be able to resolve the VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR and get your Windows system running smoothly again.