Step by Step Guide to Fix Windows Stop Code 0x00000036

0x00000036 Error: Device in Use — Windows Couldn’t Safely Remove it

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What is 0x00000036 Error?


The Windows Stop Code 0x00000036, labelled DEVICE_REFERENCE_COUNT_NOT_ZERO, is a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) that occurs when the operating system attempts to delete a device object but its reference count is not zero. This typically signals a problem where a device is being removed while still in use or when drivers fail to release references properly. This error is rare but critical, usually appearing during driver unloading, system shutdown, or while handling plug-and-play device operations that involve complex driver stacks or asynchronous device management.

Causes

  • Faulty or Misbehaving Drivers: Poorly written drivers may leave device objects in use without properly decrementing their reference count, triggering this BSOD.
  • Improper Device Cleanup: Applications or services manipulating devices may fail to release all references before device removal.
  • Kernel-Mode Antivirus or Monitoring Tools: Security software operating in kernel mode may intercept device calls and mishandle cleanup routines.
  • Unstable Third-Party System Utilities: Low-level tools (e.g., debuggers, device managers) may interfere with device object lifecycle management.
  • Corrupted System Files or OS Components: Malfunctioning Windows kernel components may fail to manage device object reference counting correctly.
  • Software Conflicts During Device Removal: Concurrent access to devices during hot-plug operations or shutdown may surface this issue.

Resolution Steps




1. Update or Roll Back Device Drivers

  • Press Win + X → Open Device Manager.
  • Focus on recently installed or updated drivers—especially for USB, storage, and plug-and-play devices.
  • Right-click → Update Driver or select Roll Back Driver if available.

2. Run System File Checker and DISM

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator, then run:

sfc /scannow

  • Once finished, run:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

  • These tools help repair damaged system components that manage device operations.

3. Uninstall Problematic Third-Party Software

  • Go to Control Panel → Programs and Features.
  • Uninstall recently added device management utilities, antivirus software, or monitoring tools.
  • Reboot the system and observe if the error persists.

4. Perform Clean Boot

  • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
  • Under Services tab → Check Hide all Microsoft services → Click Disable all.
  • Go to Startup → Open Task Manager → Disable all startup items.
  • Restart to eliminate third-party conflicts.

5. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

  • Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, and hit Enter.
  • Choose Restart now and check for problems.
  • Allow the tool to scan and detect any memory issues that could affect device object handling.

6. Perform System Restore

If the BSOD started recently:

  • Go to Control Panel → Recovery → Open System Restore.
  • Select a restore point from before the issue began.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

7. Update BIOS and Chipset Drivers

  • Visit your motherboard/computer manufacturer’s website.
  • Download and install the latest BIOS and chipset drivers to ensure proper support for device management and reference tracking.


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