As long as there have been computers that run Windows software, there has been the blue screen of death. That is, it would appear until Windows 11 comes around – where it has been reported that the blue screen is turning black for this latest operating system.
What we’re sure will remain the case, is how frustrating it will be if and when you have the ill-fated experience of running into this new look blue screen of death (or BSOD for short).
Whilst the BSOD has been an IT trope for a while, what is often less clear to people is what causes the issue(s), and most importantly – how you can attempt to fix the common ones quickly and efficiently so that you can get on with your working day. That’s what we’ll attempt to answer in this blog.
Generally speaking, a blue screen occurs if there is a problem with the computer hardware or issues with the hardware driver software. A BSOD will occur when Windows encounters a STOP Error (also known as a fatal system error or an operating system error) which caused the operating system to stop functioning. Depending on the operating system that you’re using, the BSOD may look slightly different.
As we’ve already established, the BSOD occurs when there are problems with the computer hardware or the driver software. If an application you’re using (such as Word) crashes, it is very unlikely that this would be linked to the BSOD as when an application crashes it won’t be taking down the entire operating system with it.
Some of the common reasons that might be making a BSOD occur include hardware malfunctioning, faulty memory on the device, overcrowded memory, or errors in the software system. Some of these problems can require a more involved solution and it is worth taking advice if the problem is recurring.
However, the first step to take once the BSOD has occurred will usually be to restart the computer. This can be problematic, as it can lead to data loss if programs haven’t had a chance to save data before the crash.
Helpfully, there is a reason when it comes to IT that switching something off and switching it back on again works – we even wrote about it in a previous blog. And in the case of the BSOD, it is more likely than not going to solve the issue you’re facing.
If you keep running into problems with your IT, that isn’t good for you or your business. No one wants to be spending their time sorting out computer errors when it could be better spent looking after your customers or winning new ones.
This is why Webby Tech are here to help. Learn about our outsourced IT solutions and how we can help you and your business to be more productive here.
