1. Update or Roll Back Drivers
- Press Win + X → Device Manager.
- Focus on network, graphics, and storage drivers, especially those recently updated.
- Right-click → Update Driver, or select Properties → Roll Back Driver (if available).
- Restart your PC after changes.
2. Run System File Checker and DISM
Open Command Prompt (Admin) and run:
sfc /scannow
After completion, run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- These commands repair critical system files and kernel subsystems that handle IRQ logic.
3. Test and Replace Faulty RAM
- Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, hit Enter.
- Select Restart now and check for problems.
- If issues are found, consider replacing RAM modules or testing one stick at a time.
4. Perform a Clean Boot
- Press Win + R, type msconfig, press Enter.
- Under Services, check Hide all Microsoft services → Click Disable all.
- Go to Startup tab → Open Task Manager → Disable all startup apps.
- Restart the system to isolate software-level conflicts.
5. Check BIOS Settings and Update Firmware
- Enter BIOS/UEFI setup during boot (commonly Del, F2, or Esc).
- Reset to default settings or disable overclocking if enabled.
- Visit your motherboard/computer manufacturer’s website to update BIOS and chipset drivers.
6. Scan for Malware and Kernel Exploits
- Use Windows Defender Offline Scan or a reputable antivirus tool.
- Kernel-mode malware can hijack IRQs or low-level operations, leading to BSODs like 0x00000038.
7. Restore System to a Previous Point
- If the BSOD started recently:
- Go to Control Panel → Recovery → Open System Restore.
- Choose a restore point before the issue began.
Follow prompts to roll back system state without affecting personal files.