Computer has been crashing due to some problem with ntoskrnl.exe

A couple days ago my computer started randomly crashing primarily when playing games, I have not added any new hardware or changed any settings for this to occur and have been trying to fix it to no avail, looking at bluescreen view and WhoCrashed shows issues with ntoskrnl.exe.

Attempts:
1. ran sfc /scannow (no problem detected)
2. ran dskchk (no problem detected)

3. ran mdsched (no problem detected)

4. updated BIOS

5. updated gpu and wifi drivers and checked other drivers for updates

minidump file attached: https://1drv.ms/u/s!AqOl5za_gkeRjQian-A3BI7pBiVr?e=Gdp4Jq

Thank
 you in advance

|

Hello h ymz

Welcome to the Microsoft Community.

 

Judging from your dump files, five are all involving the same error module, while the BSOD codes are slightly different. The crashes you're experiencing, particularly during gaming, are likely due to a combination of hardware stress and potential driver/system file conflicts. Here's a structured plan to diagnose and resolve the issue:

1. Overheating Check

  • Monitor Temperatures: Use tools like HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner to log CPU/GPU temperatures while gaming.

  • Clean Hardware: Dust buildup in fans/heat sinks can cause overheating. Clean your PC with compressed air.

  • Repaste Thermal Compound: If temperatures are abnormally high (e.g., >90°C for CPU/GPU), consider reapplying thermal paste.

2. Driver Rollback/Verification

  • GPU Driver: Use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) to completely remove your GPU driver, then reinstall the previous stable version (not the latest). Due to forum restrictions, I cannot provide you with the download link of this tool, but you can search for "DDU tools" on the search engine to find the relevant download link. Remember to download from trusted sources.

  • Chipset/Audio Drivers: Update motherboard chipset and audio drivers from your manufacturer’s website (e.g., Realtek, Intel).

  • Driver Verifier:

    Caution: Misuse can cause boot loops. Follow this guide to identify problematic drivers.

3. Hardware Diagnostics

  • RAM Test: Use MemTest86 (run 4+ passes overnight) to rule out memory errors.

  • Power Supply (PSU): A failing PSU can cause crashes under load. Test with a known-good PSU if possible.

  • Storage Health: Use CrystalDiskInfo to check SSD/HDD health (look for "Caution" or "Bad" status).

4. Software/Windows Tweaks

  • Disable Overclocking: Reset BIOS to default settings (disable XMP/RAM overclocks temporarily).

  • Check for Windows Updates: Install pending updates or uninstall recent updates if the issue started after an update.

  • Clean Boot: Perform a Clean Boot to see if a background program is causing the issue. This will start Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. How to perform a clean boot in Windows - Microsoft Support

    1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.

    2. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and then click Disable all.

    3. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.

    4. Disable all startup items.

    5. Restart your computer.
      Disclaimer: A “clean boot” starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. It helps to determine whether a background service is interfering with your game or program and to isolate the cause of a problem.   
      These steps of "clean boot" might look complicated at first glance. However, to avoid any trouble for you, please follow them in order and step-by step so that it will help you get back on track. 
      Now check if the issue persists. If it stops, you can narrow down which service or program is causing the issue by re-enabling them one by one and testing after each. 

If the temperature/overheating is not the problem and the above suggestions did not work, the reason for your problem is more likely to be on the hardware side. These issues need a deeper analysis and in most cases, we recommend you reach to an on-site technician, who can give you more direct advice and help you check your hardware. Let me know if you need help with specific steps!

Best Regards,

William.Y | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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Question Info


Last updated March 28, 2025 Views 74 Applies to: