BSOD: DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION (0x000000C4)
Windows Driver Verifier caught an active device driver performing an illegal operation, such as accessing paged memory at elevated IRQL or freeing already-released memory.
Internal desktop parts run on harmless 12V DC voltage and cannot shock you. Simply unplug the wall power cable first, then touch the unpainted metal case frame to ground static electricity.
Common Symptoms & Tells
- Stop code: DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION (0x000000C4)
- Names the failing driver file directly on the blue screen (e.g., driver.sys)
- PC gets stuck in a blue screen boot loop until Safe Mode is accessed
Interactive Fix Checklist
0 of 4 steps completedBoot into Safe Mode and turn off Driver Verifier
When Windows fails to boot twice, enter the Automatic Repair screen > Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart > Press 4 for Safe Mode. Open Command Prompt as Admin and execute: verifier /reset.
Identify the driver filename shown on the crash screen
Note the .sys file referenced on the blue screen (or inspect C:\Windows\MEMORY.DMP with BlueScreenView). Search the filename online to identify the associated hardware or software.
Update or uninstall the identified software or driver
In Safe Mode, open Device Manager or Control Panel and update the hardware driver or uninstall the utility responsible for the flagged .sys file.
Restart PC in normal mode
Reboot the PC normally. Verifier is now disabled, and the offending driver is either updated or removed.
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