Fixing a blue screen in Windows

A “blue screen” or “stop error”, commonly known as the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), can occur when upgrading to a new version of Windows, starting your computer, or unexpectedly while using Windows 10.

The blue screen often displays a message: “A problem has occurred on your PC and it needs to be restarted. We are collecting some error information and then restarting.” You may see an error code such as HAL_INITIALIZATION_FAILED, PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA, CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED, or BAD_SYSTEM_CONFIG_INFO, which may indicate the problem, but often more information is needed to resolve it.

**Fixing blue screen during an upgrade**

A BSOD can occur during an upgrade to a new version of Windows 10, often caused by third-party software, such as antivirus programs, or incompatible hardware. The system attempts to undo all changes and revert to the previous version of the operating system.

**Remove applications**

Remove unnecessary or recently installed software that may cause problems:

1. Open Settings > System > Apps & features.

2. Choose the app and select Uninstall.

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation.

Repeat these steps for all problematic software. After reinstallation, the apps should work correctly.

**Disconnect non-essential hardware**

Problems can also be hardware-related. Disconnect non-essential peripherals during the Windows 10 installation, such as secondary monitors, printers, phones, external hard drives, and other USB devices. Hardware can be reconnected after installation. If problems occur again, new drivers or incompatible hardware may be the cause.

**Redownload upgrade files**

Corrupted installation files can also cause a blue screen. Use the Disk Cleanup utility to remove previously downloaded installation files and let Windows Update redownload the files for a new upgrade attempt. Follow these steps to use Disk Cleanup:

1. Search for Disk Cleanup via Start and open it.

2. Select the drive “Windows (C:)” and click “OK”.

3. Select “Clean up system files”.

4. Select “Temporary Windows installation files” and click “OK” to delete.

Complete these steps and try running the upgrade again via Windows Update, or create bootable media using the Media Creation Tool if you are upgrading via USB.