How to fix DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER BSoD error in Windows 11/10

What is DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER error

DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER is a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) error that indicates a driver has overstepped its allocated memory space, essentially overwriting parts of the memory it shouldn’t touch. This kind of behavior is typically a result of faulty or outdated drivers, coding errors in third-party applications, or even hardware malfunctions. When this happens, Windows immediately shuts down to prevent system corruption, resulting in the infamous blue screen. This error can arise during startup, while gaming, or when running specific programs like Visual Studio. Users have reported seeing file-specific references like ntoskrnl.exe or nvlddmkm.sys, which can help pinpoint the problematic component. Sometimes, overclocking software or recently installed updates can trigger the issue. Malicious software or corrupted system files may also be underlying causes. Although intimidating, this error is fixable through a sequence of troubleshooting steps. By identifying and addressing the root cause, users can stabilize their systems. Whether it’s updating drivers or checking RAM integrity, multiple resolutions are at hand. Let’s explore all the viable solutions to fix the DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER error on Windows 11 or 10.

Step-by-step instructions to fix DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER error

Update your device drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers are the most common cause of this error. Updating them can quickly resolve the issue.

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Find the device with outdated drivers, right-click it, and select Update driver.
3. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
4. Repeat for all essential hardware components like display adapters, network adapters, and storage controllers.

Tip: Focus on updating Atheros wireless drivers and Nvidia GPU drivers, which are commonly reported culprits.

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.

Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

Windows provides a built-in tool to diagnose and fix hardware-related issues automatically.

1. Press Windows + R, type msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic and press Enter.
2. In the troubleshooter window, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the scan and repair process.

Use a third-party repair tool

Manual troubleshooting can be time-consuming. A reliable system repair tool can automate the process and fix system file corruption and BSoD errors efficiently.

• Download and install a trusted repair tool like Restoro or Fortect from their official websites.
• Run a system scan and apply recommended fixes.

Run system memory tests

Faulty RAM can cause stack buffer overruns. Running diagnostic tests can identify hardware issues.

1. Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
2. Select Restart now and check for problems.
3. Let Windows Memory Diagnostic scan your RAM for errors.

If no issues are found, consider using Memtest86+ for a more advanced scan from a bootable USB.

Update your BIOS

An outdated BIOS can cause compatibility issues, especially during OS installations or hardware upgrades.

1. Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website.
2. Download the latest BIOS firmware for your model.
3. Follow the official instructions carefully to flash the BIOS.

Warning: Incorrect BIOS updates can lead to system instability. Proceed only if you’re confident with the process.

Uninstall problematic software

Some programs conflict with Windows internals and may trigger the BSoD. Removing them can help stabilize your system.

1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter.
2. Locate any recently installed or suspicious applications (e.g., Daemon Tools, Rapport plug-in, Folder Lock).
3. Select the software and click Uninstall.

Use a dedicated removal tool to ensure all leftover files are deleted, especially for antivirus software.

Perform an SFC scan

Corrupted or missing system files can trigger stack buffer errors. Running a System File Checker (SFC) scan can repair them.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and restart your computer.

Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft frequently releases patches that fix known bugs and improve system stability. Make sure Windows is up to date.

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

Scan for malware

Malicious software can corrupt drivers and system files, leading to BSoD errors. Running a full malware scan is essential.

1. Open Windows Security and go to Virus & threat protection.
2. Click Quick scan or Full 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.

Download Malwarebytes

Reset Windows as a last resort

If all else fails, resetting Windows can resolve deep-rooted software conflicts causing the error.

1. Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
2. Click Reset this PC and choose whether to keep or remove your files.
3. Follow on-screen instructions to complete the reset.