1. Update or Roll Back Device Drivers
- Press Win + X → Open Device Manager.
- Focus on system-level drivers (chipset, CPU, graphics) recently updated.
- Right-click → Select Update Driver or Roll Back Driver if instability began after a driver update.
2. Run System File Checker and DISM
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:
- sfc /scannow
- Then:
- DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- These commands restore damaged kernel components and synchronisation modules.
3. Uninstall Third-Party Optimisers or Debuggers
- Go to Control Panel → Programs and Features.
- Remove system-level optimisers, debuggers, or any tool that modifies thread handling or priority queues.
- Reboot and check if the BSOD returns.
4. Perform Clean Boot
- Press Win + R → Type msconfig → Enter
- Under Services → Check Hide all Microsoft services → Click Disable all
- Go to Startup tab → Open Task Manager → Disable all items
- Reboot the system with essential services only
5. Check and Reset Overclocking
If overclocking is enabled:
- Enter BIOS/UEFI setup (usually via Del or F2 at boot)
- Restore to Default or Optimised Defaults
- Save and exit to stabilise CPU thread handling
6. Update BIOS and Chipset Drivers
- Visit your motherboard/computer manufacturer’s website.
- Install the latest BIOS version and chipset drivers
- These updates improve kernel-level thread and interrupt coordination
7. Perform System Restore
If the BSOD appeared after software or update changes:
- Go to Control Panel → Recovery → Open System Restore
- Select a restore point before the issue began
- Complete the on-screen process
The 0x00000040 TARGET_INVALID error reflects a failure in thread execution or transition within the kernel, often caused by driver flaws, synchronisation issues, or CPU instability.
To fix it:
- Update or roll back drivers,
- Run system repair tools to restore kernel stability,
- And remove any software that disrupts thread scheduling.
If none of these steps resolve the issue, consider:
Running advanced diagnostics or resetting overclocked hardware,
Or performing a clean Windows installation to eliminate deep-level kernel faults.