How to fix CRITICAL_STRUCTURE_CORRUPTION BSoD error in Windows 11/10

What is CRITICAL_STRUCTURE_CORRUPTION error

CRITICAL_STRUCTURE_CORRUPTION is a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) error in Windows 11/10 that indicates a serious problem with your system’s kernel or hardware. This error usually points to critical system files being modified unexpectedly or hardware components failing. It can be caused by faulty drivers, memory corruption, or even malware interference. Often, the error message appears when the system detects that a kernel mode driver has attempted to modify critical structures. This type of error can crash your system and force it to reboot repeatedly. Users may experience freezes, random restarts, or sudden shutdowns without any warning. One common cause is outdated or incompatible drivers, especially after a major Windows update. Additionally, overclocking software, virtual drive tools, and old antivirus programs can trigger the issue. In some cases, corrupt system files or disk errors may be responsible. The error may also be linked to failing hardware, such as RAM, hard drives, or power supply units. Because the root cause can vary widely, it’s essential to follow a step-by-step troubleshooting approach to resolve the issue effectively.

Step-by-step instructions to fix CRITICAL_STRUCTURE_CORRUPTION error

1. Check Your Hardware Components

This step ensures the CRITICAL_STRUCTURE_CORRUPTION error isn’t caused by failing hardware like HDD, RAM, or PSU.

1. Check Hard Drive: Open Command Prompt as Admin and run chkdsk c: /r.
2. Check RAM: Type Windows Memory Diagnostic in the Start menu and follow prompts, or use MemTest86.
3. Check PSU: Ensure all power cables are connected securely and confirm that hardware isn’t drawing more power than your PSU can handle.

Unplug unnecessary peripherals and reboot in Safe Mode to rule out hardware failure.

2. Use Blue Screen Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter specifically for Blue Screen errors.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
3. Select Blue Screen and click Run the troubleshooter.

3. Run System File Checker (SFC)

The SFC tool scans and repairs corrupted system files that may cause the error.

1. Right-click on Start and choose Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and restart your PC.

4. Check and Update All Drivers

Outdated or corrupt drivers are a major cause of CRITICAL_STRUCTURE_CORRUPTION errors.

1. Right-click Start and open Device Manager.
2. Click View > Show hidden devices.
3. Expand each category and right-click devices to choose Update driver.

Updating each driver manually is time- and energy-consuming. If you are willing to save it and update drivers faster, we recommend using a special utility called Driver Booster from IObit. It has broad databases of drivers for all of the devices you need to maintain your PC. You can download it using the button below.

5. Run DISM Command

DISM tool can fix Windows image corruption that SFC might miss.

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin) again.
2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
3. Wait for the commands to finish and restart your PC.

6. Uninstall Conflicting Third-Party Applications

Some software can conflict with system processes and trigger BSoD errors.

• Go to Settings > Apps and remove apps like virtual drive tools, overclocking software, old antivirus, and system management utilities.
• Use software like Revo Uninstaller to ensure complete removal of remnants.

7. Scan for Malware

Malicious files can corrupt system structures or drivers.

1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
2. Click Virus & threat protection and run a full scan.
3. Alternatively, download and install Malwarebytes for a deeper scan.

You can use default Windows Defender or try to install a more advanced antivirus developed by Malwarebytes – a trusted and talented group of experts constantly updating their software to fight off both local and global threats. You can download it now using the link below and try a 14-day trial of the ultimate antimalware experience for free.

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8. Perform Windows Update

Ensure your system has the latest patches that may fix known stability issues.

1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

9. Clean Install Windows

If all else fails, a clean installation can eliminate corrupted system files and configuration issues.

1. Back up all your important data to external storage or cloud.
2. Create a bootable USB using the Windows Media Creation Tool.
3. Reboot from the USB and follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows.