Alex Ruben
How to Fix the VIDEO DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR BSOD in Windows
If you’re encountering the “VIDEO DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR” Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on your Windows device, you’re not alone. This error typically arises from outdated graphics drivers, problems with DirectX, or system file corruption. In this guide, we’ll walk you through several effective steps to diagnose and resolve this issue, ensuring your system is stable and functional again. Whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11, on a desktop or a laptop, these troubleshooting methods will help you prevent future crashes.
Step 1: Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers are one of the primary causes of the VIDEO DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR. To update your drivers, follow these steps:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager from the menu.
- In Device Manager, expand the Display adapters section.
- Right-click on your graphics card and select Update Driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software and follow any on-screen instructions to complete the update.
After the update is complete, restart your computer and check if the issue persists. Regularly updating your drivers can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering BSOD errors.
Step 2: Run the DirectX Diagnostic Tool
DirectX is critical for managing tasks related to multimedia and gaming. Issues with DirectX can lead to BSOD errors. Here’s how to run the DirectX Diagnostic Tool:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type
dxdiagand press Enter. - Check for any reported issues in the tool. If DirectX is outdated, visit the Microsoft DirectX Download Page to get the latest version.
Ensure that your DirectX is up to date, as this can resolve compatibility issues with graphics drivers and applications.
Step 3: Conduct a System File Check (SFC)
If your system files are corrupted, it can lead to instability and BSOD errors. Conducting a System File Check can help you identify and fix these issues. Here’s how:
- Open the Command Prompt as an administrator by right-clicking the Start button and selecting Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type
sfc /scannowand hit Enter. - Wait for the scan to complete; this may take some time. The tool will automatically fix any corrupted files it finds.
This step is crucial as repairing corrupted files can restore your system’s functionality and prevent repeated errors.
Step 4: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft frequently releases updates to address system-related issues, including BSOD errors. Here’s how to check for updates:
- Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Click on Windows Update and then select Check for updates.
- If updates are available, install them and restart your computer.
Staying updated ensures you have the latest system patches that could enhance compatibility and security.
Step 5: Reinstall or Rollback Graphics Drivers
If updating the graphics driver hasn’t resolved the issue, you may need to reinstall or rollback to a previous version. To do this:
- Return to Device Manager and right-click your graphics card again.
- Select Properties, then navigate to the Driver tab.
- Choose Rollback Driver if the option is available, or select Uninstall Device followed by a restart. Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver.
This step is important when recent driver updates have caused new issues instead of resolving them.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
To further enhance your troubleshooting experience, consider these additional tips:
- If you suddenly began experiencing this error after a recent update, try uninstalling the update through Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history.
- Always ensure that your GPU hardware is compatible with your operating system and supported applications.
- Frequent hardware can also cause instability. If you’ve recently changed components, ensure all connections are secure.
Conclusion
By following these detailed steps, you can effectively resolve the “VIDEO DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR” BSOD and restore your Windows system’s functionality. Keeping your drivers updated, running necessary checks, and paying attention to system updates are essential habits for maintaining system health and performance. Should you continue to encounter issues, consider seeking professional support or visiting community forums for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the VIDEO DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR?
This error is commonly caused by outdated or corrupted graphics drivers, DirectX issues, or corrupted system files.
Can I prevent BSOD errors from happening in the future?
Maintaining updated drivers and regularly checking for system updates can help prevent BSOD errors. Additionally, performing routine system checks can catch issues early.
What should I do if the error persists?
If the error persists after trying all the above steps, consider performing a clean boot or reach out to technical support for more specialized help.