How to fix DEVICE_QUEUE_NOT_BUSY BSoD error in Windows 11/10

What is DEVICE_QUEUE_NOT_BUSY error

DEVICE_QUEUE_NOT_BUSY is a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) error that typically occurs when the Windows operating system encounters a critical issue involving device drivers or hardware communication. This error often points to a problem with a storage device or its associated driver, such as your hard drive, SSD, or even an external USB device. It may also be linked to corrupted system files, outdated firmware, or conflicts between recently installed software and hardware. Users experiencing this issue may see their system crash unexpectedly, often during startup or while performing intensive disk operations. The error message is usually accompanied by a stop code that forces the system to reboot, sometimes repeatedly. It can be frustrating, especially if it prevents access to important files or interrupts work. Fortunately, there are several methods to diagnose and resolve this error. Some fixes involve checking hardware integrity, updating drivers, running system diagnostics, or reverting recent changes. In rare cases, malware infections can also lead to such critical errors. Addressing the root cause promptly ensures system stability and prevents data loss. Following a structured troubleshooting process can help in identifying and fixing the underlying issue effectively.

Step-by-step instructions to fix DEVICE_QUEUE_NOT_BUSY error

1. Update Storage and Other Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers are a common cause of the DEVICE_QUEUE_NOT_BUSY error. Updating them helps resolve the conflict.

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Disk drives, IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers, or any related category.
3. Right-click on each device and choose Update driver.
4. Select Search automatically for drivers and follow the on-screen instructions.

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.

Driver Booster start screen

Driver Booster scan results

Driver Booster tools section

2. Run System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted system files can trigger BSoD errors. Running the SFC tool scans and repairs these files.

1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions.

Windows 11 Start -> Terminal (Admin)

Windows 11 Terminal -> sfc /scannow

3. Perform a Full Virus and Malware Scan

Malware attacks can interfere with system processes and cause critical errors like DEVICE_QUEUE_NOT_BUSY.

1. Open Settings and go to Privacy & Security > Windows Security.
2. Click on Virus & threat protection.
3. Select Scan options and choose Full scan.
4. Click Scan now and wait for the process to finish.

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Malwarebytes main window

Malwarebytes settings

Malwarebytes scan results

4. Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix known bugs and improve hardware compatibility. Installing the latest updates may resolve the error.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update and click Check for updates.
3. Download and install any available updates.
4. Restart your computer after installation.

Windows 11 -> Settings

Settings ->Windows Update

Windows Update -> Check for Updates

5. Run CHKDSK to Check Disk Integrity

Hard drive errors or bad sectors can lead to BSoD errors. The CHKDSK utility scans and fixes disk issues.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
3. If prompted, type Y to schedule the scan at next restart.
4. Restart your PC to let CHKDSK run and repair any disk issues.

6. Perform a Clean Boot

Sometimes third-party apps or services can conflict with system processes. Performing a clean boot helps identify the culprit.

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
3. Switch to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
4. Disable all startup items, then close Task Manager.
5. Click OK in System Configuration and restart your PC.

7. Restore System to a Previous Point

If the error began recently, restoring the system to an earlier working state might help.

1. Press Windows + S, type Restore, and select Create a restore point.
2. In the System Protection tab, click System Restore.
3. Choose a restore point before the issue started and follow the prompts.

8. Check and Reseat Hardware Components

Loose or faulty hardware, especially storage drives and RAM, can cause BSoD errors like DEVICE_QUEUE_NOT_BUSY.

1. Shut down your PC and disconnect all power sources.
2. Open the case and carefully reseat the RAM and hard drive cables.
3. Ensure all components are securely connected.
4. Restart the computer and check if the error persists.