Random BSODs ?
Random BSODs ?
Hi,
I'm experiencing intermittent BSODs with varying error messages. So far I've encountered:
- Memory management issues
- KMOD exception not handled
- System service exceptions
- IRQ not less than or equal
- Reference by pointer
The crashes started about three weeks ago. Initially, I managed to boot and log in occasionally, but then a BSOD would occur, sometimes during startup and sometimes after logging in. I had at least ten such incidents before being able to perform any tasks without interruption. I checked the RAM with Windows Memory Diagnostic, which only restarts and shows a blue window that crashes; it didn't help. I also ran Memtest86, but no issues were found.
For two weeks there was no problem until another BSOD. I updated the BIOS, reset to default settings, and reinstalled Windows (preserving my files). All drivers were updated and everything worked for a couple of days before another crash.
The BSODs seem random—sometimes after logging in, sometimes during games or boot, though most often right after login.
Diagnostic tools reported:
- Intel Processor Diagnostic Tool passed
- SSD SMART readings are normal
- Minidump logs indicate ntoskrnl.exe is the issue
System details:
Windows 11
Intel i9-12900K
MSI Z690 Carbon WiFi
DDR5 RAM
RTX 3070
3x M.2 SSDs
Asus Strix 850 PSU
I’m unsure what to test next or which component might need replacement since I don’t have spare parts to try. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
When encountering a blue screen, watch for any file names or programs displayed on the screen. Windows may list the problematic file or program under certain conditions. What failed is a warning to note the name and consider reinstalling, updating, or removing it completely. IRQ_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL and SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION often point to a driver issue. This usually occurs when a system component tries to access data or a file and the OS blocks it, leading to the blue screen. Since drivers facilitate communication between hardware and software, this is likely the source of your problem. Try updating and reinstalling drivers to see if it resolves the issue. If your RAM was faulty, you might encounter DATA_BUS_ERROR along with other messages. It's reassuring that Memtest86 reported no errors.
You mentioned resetting your BIOS, which is a solid troubleshooting step, but double-check that no overclocks are active on your CPU, RAM, or graphics card. If these parts are being overclocked excessively or receiving incorrect voltage, it could trigger the blue screen. Lowering your hardware to its original specifications and testing again may help.
Next, execute CHKDSK and SFC commands. Ensure you're using an administrator account for these tools to work effectively. If CHKDSK reports success, back up any critical data immediately and run a disk diagnostic tool to confirm your drive's integrity. The manufacturer should provide a downloadable utility for this purpose. You might also perform both a Windows Defender Deep Scan and an offline scan. The issue is unlikely due to malware, but it's a safe precaution that usually takes a few hours—perfect for doing before work or school.
If all else fails, consider a complete reinstallation of the operating system. I personally prefer a fresh Windows installation each year, but with backups on multiple drives, it's manageable. Ensure you have all important files, photos, and documents stored on an external drive or USB stick. This should help. Good luck, and stay safe.
Thank you for your assistance so far. While on vacation I didn’t do much, I had an extra SSD ready and installed a new Windows 11 setup. The machine worked fine yesterday but now it won’t boot and displays blue screens regularly. Sometimes the login appears briefly before the crash, and one of the error codes is "win32kbase.sys". No files or programs were reported on the screens. I’m trying to figure out what might be wrong or what part is likely failing. Appreciate any suggestions!