How to fix UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION BSoD error in Windows 11/10

What is UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION error

One of the more frustrating Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) errors Windows users can encounter is the UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION. This error typically causes an abrupt system crash followed by a forced restart, making it particularly disruptive to productivity or gaming. Despite the name, it has little to do with the Microsoft Store and instead points to issues with system files, drivers, or hardware components. Most commonly, this error is linked to faulty system drivers, incompatible software, or failing hardware like SSDs or RAM. Antivirus software, especially third-party ones like McAfee and Avira, have also been known to trigger this error. In many cases, the error stems from outdated drivers or missing system updates. Corruption in Windows system files or issues with BIOS settings can also be contributing factors. Users have also reported this issue when using Fast Startup or Sleep mode features. It can appear on a variety of hardware platforms including Dell, Lenovo, HP, and ASUS. Sometimes, the error may even display messages like “No bootable device” or “Critical process died”, further complicating troubleshooting. Fortunately, there are multiple solutions available that can help resolve the issue permanently.

Step-by-step instructions to fix UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION error

1. Update Windows to the latest version

Ensuring your system is up-to-date can resolve compatibility issues and bugs that cause BSoD errors like UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security.
3. Click Check for updates and install available updates.

2. Uninstall or update third-party antivirus software

Some antivirus programs may interfere with system functions and trigger this error. Try removing or updating them.

1. Press Windows + I and open Apps.
2. Scroll to your antivirus software, click on it, and select Uninstall.
3. Restart your computer and check if the issue persists.

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3. Check your hard drive and connections

This error may be caused by a faulty SSD/HDD or loose connections. Reconnecting the drive can help.

1. Shut down your PC and unplug it from the power source.
2. Open the case and disconnect your SSD/HDD.
3. Reconnect the drive and ensure all cables are secure.
4. Try switching the SATA port or cable if possible.

4. Adjust BIOS settings

Incorrect SATA configurations in BIOS can lead to store-related exceptions. Make sure it’s configured correctly.

1. Restart your PC and press F2 or Del to enter BIOS.
2. Navigate to the SATA Mode setting and choose AHCI or RAID.
3. Set your SSD/HDD as the primary boot device.
4. Save changes and exit BIOS.

5. Disable Fast Startup and Sleep mode

Fast Startup and Sleep mode can cause system instability on some hardware. Disabling them might help.

1. Search for Power Plan and select Choose a power plan.
2. Click on Choose what the power buttons do.
3. Select Change settings that are currently unavailable.
4. Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended) and save changes.
5. Go back to your power plan and set Put the computer to sleep to Never.

6. Uninstall problematic drivers

Faulty or corrupted drivers, especially for storage devices, may trigger this error.

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the device categories and look for drivers with a yellow exclamation mark.
3. Right-click the device and choose Uninstall device.
4. Restart your PC to reinstall the default driver automatically.

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.

7. Remove temporary files

Corrupt or bloated cache files can contribute to memory-related crashes. Cleaning them can help.

1. Press Windows + S and type Disk Cleanup.
2. Select your system drive (usually C:) and click OK.
3. Select Temporary files and other unnecessary data, then click OK.

8. Disable File History

File History can sometimes conflict with system processes. Disabling it may stop the BSoD.

1. Open Settings using Windows + I.
2. Go to Update & Security > Backup.
3. Turn off Automatically back up my files.

9. Use High Performance power plan

Some users resolved the issue by switching to the High Performance power profile.

1. Search for Power Plan and click Choose a power plan.
2. Select High performance from the list.

10. Flash or downgrade BIOS

BIOS updates can fix compatibility issues or bugs that cause BSoD errors.

1. Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website.
2. Download the latest BIOS version for your model.
3. Transfer the BIOS file to a USB drive.
4. Enter BIOS using F2 or Del during boot.
5. Use the BIOS flash utility to update or downgrade the firmware.