How to fix ERROR_OPLOCK_SWITCHED_TO_NEW_HANDLE BSoD error in Windows 11/10

March 30, 2025

What is ERROR_OPLOCK_SWITCHED_TO_NEW_HANDLE error

ERROR_OPLOCK_SWITCHED_TO_NEW_HANDLE is a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) error that typically occurs in Windows 10 and 11 environments when there is a disruption in file access over a network. This issue is associated with Opportunistic Locking (OpLock), a Windows feature used to improve performance when multiple users or applications are accessing files on a shared network. The error message indicates that the OpLock initially granted to one handle has been reassigned to another, causing an unexpected handle switch. This can lead to system instability and crash, especially when critical operations are interrupted. The error is commonly triggered in enterprise environments or systems with shared file structures where simultaneous access is frequent. Misconfigured network permissions, outdated drivers, or incorrectly handled SMB services can also contribute to the issue. Additionally, aggressive antivirus software or corrupted system files may interfere with file locking mechanisms. The problem often surfaces during file transfers, access to mapped drives, or when opening shared documents. It can be particularly frustrating due to its abrupt nature and lack of specific context. Fortunately, there are several proven solutions to identify and fix the root cause. Addressing this error involves a mix of permission checks, driver updates, and registry tweaks to disable OpLock behavior.

ERROR_OPLOCK_SWITCHED_TO_NEW_HANDLE BSoD error

Step-by-step instructions to fix ERROR_OPLOCK_SWITCHED_TO_NEW_HANDLE error

Check Share and NTFS Permissions

Ensure the file or folder you are trying to access has appropriate permissions. Misconfigured share or NTFS permissions can cause access issues that trigger the BSoD.

Right-click the shared file or folder and select Properties.
Go to the Sharing tab and click Advanced Sharing.
Select Permissions and ensure your user has Full Control.
Then, go to the Security tab and verify your user group has Read or Full Control permission.
Click Edit if adjustments are needed and apply the changes.

Restart SMB Client and Server Services

Restarting SMB services can fix temporary glitches that interfere with file sharing protocols.

Press Windows + S, type cmd, and choose Run as administrator.
Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:

net stop lanmanworkstation
net start lanmanworkstation
net stop lanmanserver
net start lanmanserver

Close the Command Prompt window.

Disable Opportunistic Locking via Registry

If the error is persistent, disabling OpLock behavior can help stabilize file access over the network.

Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\LanmanWorkstation\Parameters.
Right-click the right pane, choose New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it OplocksDisabled.
Double-click it, set Value data to 1, and click OK.
Restart your computer.

Update Network Driver

Outdated or corrupt network drivers can cause instability in SMB and file sharing services.

Press Windows + R, type devmgmt.msc, and click OK.
Expand Network adapters.
Right-click your network device and select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow the prompts.

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

Temporarily Disable Antivirus Software

Some antivirus tools may interfere with SMB file sharing or lock files aggressively, causing instability.

Open Windows Security from the Start Menu.
Go to Virus & Threat Protection > Manage settings.
Toggle off Real-time protection.
Optionally, add affected folders or paths to Exclusions.

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