How to fix KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED BSoD error in Windows 11/10

What is KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED error

KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED is a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) error that occurs on Windows 11 and Windows 10 systems, indicating that a kernel-mode program has generated an exception which the error handler did not catch. Essentially, this error points to serious issues at the system’s core level, often caused by faulty drivers, incompatible hardware, or software conflicts. When Windows encounters this error, it halts the system to prevent further damage, displaying the BSoD with the stop code “KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED”. Users may experience sudden system crashes, restarts, or freezes without warning, disrupting workflow and potentially causing data loss. This error can be particularly frustrating because it may not always specify the exact driver or file causing the problem, making troubleshooting challenging. Common triggers include recently installed hardware, outdated or corrupted drivers, malware infections, and memory problems. Understanding the root causes is essential for resolving the issue effectively. Ignoring this error can lead to persistent system instability and decreased performance. Therefore, addressing the KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED error promptly is crucial to restore system reliability and prevent future crashes.

Solutions to Fix KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED Error

1. Update or Roll Back Device Drivers

Faulty or outdated drivers are a common cause of this error. Updating or rolling back drivers can resolve compatibility issues:

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Locate any devices with a yellow exclamation mark, indicating a problem.
3. Right-click on the device and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
5. If the issue started after a recent driver update, consider rolling back:
   1. Right-click on the device and select Properties.
   2. Go to the Driver tab and click on Roll Back 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.

Download Driver Booster

2. Rename Faulty Driver File

Sometimes, the error message specifies a problematic driver file (e.g., ndis.sys):

1. Note the driver file name mentioned in the BSoD error.
2. Boot your computer into Safe Mode:
   1. Restart your computer and press F8 before Windows loads.
   2. Select Safe Mode from the Advanced Boot Options menu.
3. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers.
4. Locate the faulty driver file and rename it (e.g., from drivername.sys to drivername.old).
5. Restart your computer normally. Windows may replace the driver with a functioning version.

3. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Scans

Corrupted system files can cause kernel errors:

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin) by right-clicking the Start menu.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and repair any corrupted files.
4. Next, run the DISM tool:
   1. Type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter.
5. Restart your computer after both scans are finished.

4. Check for Memory Issues

Faulty RAM can trigger this error:

1. Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
2. Select Restart now and check for problems.
3. The Windows Memory Diagnostic tool will scan for memory issues upon restart.
4. If errors are found, consider replacing your RAM modules.

5. Disable Fast Startup

Fast Startup can cause driver conflicts:

1. Go to Control Panel > Power Options.
2. Click on Choose what the power buttons do.
3. Click on Change settings that are currently unavailable.
4. Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended).
5. Click Save changes and restart your computer.

6. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot can help identify conflicting software:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all.
3. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
4. Disable all startup items.
5. Close Task Manager and click OK.
6. Restart your computer. If the error no longer occurs, re-enable services and startup items one at a time to identify the problematic software.

7. Update the BIOS

An outdated BIOS can cause hardware compatibility issues:

1. Determine your BIOS version:
   1. Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter.
   2. Note the BIOS Version/Date in the System Information window.
2. Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website to check for BIOS updates.
3. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to safely update your BIOS.

8. Scan for Malware

Malware can corrupt system files leading to errors:

1. Update your antivirus software to the latest definitions.
2. Run a full system scan to detect and remove malware.
3. Alternatively, use Windows Defender Offline:
   1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
   2. Select Virus & threat protection and click Scan options.
   3. Choose Microsoft Defender Offline scan and click Scan now.

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

9. Uninstall Problematic Software

Recently installed software may conflict with system processes:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
2. Sort the apps by install date to find recent additions.
3. Select the suspicious app and click Uninstall.
4. Restart your computer to see if the issue is resolved.

10. Reset Windows

If all else fails, resetting Windows can fix deep-seated issues:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
2. Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
3. Choose to Keep my files or Remove everything based on your preference.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

Conclusion

The KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED error can be a persistent and disruptive issue on Windows 11 and Windows 10 systems. By systematically applying the solutions provided, you can identify and rectify the underlying causes, whether they stem from driver problems, hardware faults, or software conflicts. Regular system maintenance, such as updating drivers and scanning for malware, can prevent such errors from occurring. If the problem continues despite these efforts, seeking professional technical support may be necessary to ensure the integrity and stability of your computer system.