Fixing "PAGE FAULT IN NONPAGED AREA” In Windows 11, 10, 8 & 7

Let’s dive into the notorious PAGE FAULT IN NONPAGED AREA error that’s been crashing parties on your system. Picture this: you’re cruising along, minding your own business, and suddenly bam! Your system crashes or freezes, leaving you scratching your head.understanding the topic

So, what’s the deal with this error? Well, it’s like this: imagine your program wants to access a part of memory labeled as non-paged, but the data it needs isn’t there—neither in physical memory nor the page file. Cue the error message, signaling that the program reached for memory it couldn’t grab.

Non-paged memory is like the secret sauce of your Operating System, always there when you need it, storing vital system data for stability and performance. It’s the backbone that keeps everything running smoothly.

Now, onto the suspects. What triggers this error? It could be anything from wonky RAM modules to corrupted system files, pesky incompatible device drivers, crooked antivirus, or sneaky software bugs. Even issues with virtual memory management—like wonky page file settings or stingy virtual memory allocation—can join the chaos.

Bottom line: knowing what’s causing this error is key to kissing those system stability woes goodbye on your Windows journey.

So, Let’s See How To Fix This “PAGE FAULT IN NONPAGED AREA” Blue Screen Error 

How do you solve this digital dilemma? Buckle up for some troubleshooting fun! You might need to run memory diagnostics, give those device drivers a makeover, scan for malware, patch up system files, or tweak virtual memory settings. And if all else fails, you might just have to wipe the slate clean with a fresh OS install.

If you happen to stumble upon this error right at startup, it’s worth mentioning that I’ve covered similar issues in an article titled Fixing Blue Screen (BSOD) Error In Middle of Computer Startup”. In that piece, you’ll find in-depth guidance on handling BSOD errors that crop up during the boot process. While this current article is focused on fixing the blue screen error during regular computer use.

For step-by-step instructions on resolving BSOD errors encountered during computer startup, I highly recommend checking out the earlier-mentioned article. By following the outlined steps in that guide, you’ll have the tools and know-how needed to confront the error head-on and get your system back to smooth sailing.

Moreover, dealing with the automatic reboot when system failure feature can be a major nuisance as it disrupts your workflow and prevents you from properly troubleshooting and fixing the root causes behind the error. By turning off the automatic restart, you’ll have the chance to thoroughly investigate the problem and apply the necessary solutions without any annoying interruptions.

Before diving into the steps to disable automatic restart, make sure to save and close any ongoing tasks or applications. If you’ve got a bunch of programs running, it’s a good idea to minimize them temporarily to streamline the troubleshooting process. Here’s how to do it:

  • Press the Windos + D Key keyboard shortcut simultaneously to quickly navigate to the desktop.
  • Once you’re on the desktop, right-click on “This PC” and select “Properties.”
  • This will open up the System window. From there, choose “Advanced system settings” from the options listed on the left-hand side.
  • In the System Properties window that pops up, head over to the “Advanced” tab and click on “Settings” under the “Startup and Recovery” section.
  • In the subsequent window, find the “System failure” section and uncheck the box next to “Automatically restart.”
  • Once you’ve unchecked the box, hit the “OK” button at the bottom of the window to save your changes.disable automatic reboot when system failure

By disabling automatic restart, Windows won’t just go ahead and reboot without your say-so when it runs into a BSOD error. This gives you plenty of time to explore other solutions and effectively tackle the blue screen error, making the troubleshooting process much smoother.

Solution #1: Undo Any Recent Changes

If you’ve recently added new hardware or software to your computer and suddenly encountered the dreaded PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA error, it’s time to put those recent changes under the microscope. Sometimes, what seemed like an upgrade or a cool new program can actually throw a wrench into your system’s gears, causing instability and pesky errors.

So, what’s the game plan? First things first, let’s roll back those recent additions. Whether it’s a shiny new graphics card, an extra stick of RAM, or that latest software you couldn’t resist downloading, let’s bid them adieu—at least temporarily. By reverting your system to its pre-addition state, you’ll nix any potential conflicts those newcomers brought along.

Next up, let’s unplug any peripherals hanging out in your USB ports and give your system a spin solo. Printers, external hard drives, USB hubs—they’re all suspects in the stability sabotage game. Sometimes, these external gadgets can throw a tantrum and mess with your system’s mojo, especially if they’re on the fritz or just don’t vibe well with your setup. So, disconnect them for now and see if your computer behaves better without their meddling.

Additionally, sometimes even Windows plays the role of a sneaky ninja, silently installing updates in the background, especially if you’ve got the automatic update feature turned on. While these updates are meant to spruce up your system’s performance and security, they can also inadvertently stir up trouble by not playing nice with your existing drivers or software.

Even the shiniest, newest update straight from Microsoft’s workshop can clash with the stuff already chillin’ on your system.

So, when you find yourself caught in this tangled mess, it’s worth considering the ol’ “undo” button for recent updates as a potential fix for this pesky blue screen error. By rewinding to a time before the troublesome update wormed its way in, you might just smooth out those compatibility wrinkles causing the headache.

To kick those recent updates to the curb, head over to your Windows Update settings and dive into the Update History section. There, you’ll find a laundry list of all the recent updates—both system tweaks and driver updates. Pick out the update you suspect is stirring up trouble and hit that uninstall button. Windows will walk you through the process step by step, rolling your system back to its pre-update state like it never even happened.

Uninstall Recently Installed Windows Update

Solution #2: Try Windows Built-in Blue Screen Troubleshooter

Utilizing Windows built-in Blue Screen Troubleshooter can be a real lifesaver. This handy tool is tailor-made to sniff out and squash common causes of these pesky blue screen mishaps, including the one currently giving you grief.

For Windows 10 users, finding and running the Blue Screen Troubleshooter is a breeze. Just head on over to the Settings menu, then move on down to Update & Security. From there, click on Troubleshoot, and you’ll spot the option to fire up the Blue Screen Troubleshooter. Give it a click and let it do its thing; it’ll walk you through the diagnostic process and offer up potential fixes to kick that error to the curb.

Now, if you’re rocking Windows 11, the process is a tad different but just as straightforward. Start by popping open the Start menu and typing in keywords like “Troubleshoot BSOD error” or “Find and fix bluescreen problems”. Windows 11’s smart search feature will lend a hand, pointing you toward the right troubleshooting tool for blue-screen woes. Once you’ve found it, follow the prompts to kick off the troubleshooter and let it work its magic in diagnosing the problem.

Find And Fix Bluescreen Problems search on starst menu-min

Solution #3: Try Temporarily Disabling Antivirus

Sometimes, this error can be traced back to clashes or compatibility hiccups with your trusty antivirus software. While these programs are essential for keeping your system safe from digital nasties, they can occasionally throw a wrench into the works and kick up errors like the one you’re grappling with.

To figure out if your antivirus is indeed the troublemaker, it’s a smart move to temporarily shut it down and see if the error sticks around. Here’s how you can do it:

  • Hunt down the icon for your antivirus software in the system tray, usually hanging out in the bottom right corner of your screen.
  • Give that icon a right-click to summon up the context menu.
  • Scan the menu for an option that lets you put your antivirus on a temporary hiatus. Now, the wording might vary depending on which antivirus you’ve got, but you’re generally looking for something like “Disable Protection,” “Pause Protection,” or “Turn Off Antivirus.”
  • Once you’ve found the right option, go ahead and give it a click to temporarily disable the antivirus. You might need to confirm your choice or punch in your admin password.
  • With your antivirus now taking a breather, keep an eye on your system to see if that pesky error rears its head again. If it’s gone MIA, chances are your antivirus was indeed causing the kerfuffle.
  • After your detective work is done, don’t forget to switch your antivirus back on to keep your system snug and secure.
  • What’s A Good Antivirus & How To Pick A Perfect One?

By giving your antivirus a little timeout, you can suss out if it’s the one butting heads with other system processes and kicking up the error. If the error sticks around even after your antivirus siesta, it might be time to roll up your sleeves and dig into some other troubleshooting tactics to squash the problem for good.

Solution #4: Use Windows Driver Verifier

The Windows Driver Verifier tool is like a superhero utility quietly tucked into every version of Windows since the good ol’ Windows 2000 days. It’s got one job: sniff out and tackle those pesky driver-related issues that love to wreak havoc on your system, causing everything from crashes to total meltdowns.

To harness the power of the Windows Driver Verifier tool like a pro, here’s what you need to do:

  1. Start by firing up Windows Powershell (alternatively, you can use CMD). You can find it by typing “Windows Powershell” into the Windows search bar.
  2. Right-click on Windows Powershell in the search results and make sure to select “Run as administrator” for those sweet elevated privileges.
  3. Once you’ve got Powershell open and ready for action, type in “verifier” (no quotes) and hit Enter. This command kickstarts the Driver Verifier tool into gear.Type Verifier Windows Powershell
  4. A nifty dialog box will pop up, laying out your options. Check the box labeled “Create standard settings” and then hit that “Next” button to keep things moving.Check the box labeled Create standard settings
  5. In the next window that appears, go ahead and select “Automatically select all drivers installed on this computer,” then click “Next” to lock in your choice.Select Automatically select all drivers installed on this computer
  6. With your settings all squared away, it’s time for a reboot. The system will prompt you to restart so it can apply the changes and let the Driver Verifier tool do its thing.
  7. After your computer restarts, the Driver Verifier tool will get to work, keeping a close eye on all the drivers cozying up in your system. If it spots any shenanigans or weirdness, it’ll whip up some handy diagnostic reports to help you pinpoint and squash those driver-related gremlins.

By teaming up with the Windows Driver Verifier tool, you can stay one step ahead of potential driver disasters, including the dreaded PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA error. This systematic approach to verifying drivers can help keep your Windows system running smoothly and reliably.

Solution #5: Reinstall All Drivers

Reinstalling all drivers on your system can be a solid fix for that pesky blue screen error. This troublemaker often shows up when there are compatibility hiccups, corrupted drivers, or outdated software lurking around. By giving your drivers a fresh start, you can make sure every piece of your system puzzle fits just right. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Identify Your System’s Drivers: First things first, let’s figure out what drivers are hanging out in your system. Fire up the Device Manager by right-clicking on the Start menu and selecting “Device Manager” from the menu. Here, you’ll see a list of all the hardware bits chilling in your system, along with their drivers.Device Manager
  2. Download Latest Drivers: Before uninstalling any drivers, ensure you have the latest compatible versions on hand for installation. Head over to the official website of your device’s manufacturer or find the motherboard model to procure the appropriate drivers. For example, if you’re dealing with an assembled desktop, pinpoint the model of your motherboard (e.g., “GIGABYTE H310M S2 2.0“) and locate drivers tailored to that model. Pre-downloading compatible drivers beforehand helps streamline the reinstallation process and reduces downtime.Drivers download age of official website of laptop or desktop's manufacturer
  3. Uninstall Existing Drivers: Instead of rushing to uninstall all drivers at once, take a systematic approach. Begin by identifying each driver installed on your system via the Device Manager. Right-click on each device, select “Uninstall device,” and carefully follow the on-screen prompts to remove the driver software. By uninstalling drivers one by one, you can maintain control over the process and steer clear of potential conflicts.uninstall drivers from device manager
  4. Install New Drivers: Once you’ve got those shiny new drivers downloaded, it’s installation time. Run the downloaded driver installation files and follow the instructions on your screen to get those drivers cozying up in your system.
  5. Restart Your Computer: After you’ve installed all the new drivers, it’s time for a good ol’ fashioned reboot. This step ensures that the changes take effect and that your system can fully embrace its fresh set of drivers.

By adhering to these meticulous steps—uninstalling drivers methodically, pre-downloading compatible drivers, installing drivers carefully one by one, and restarting your computer—you can effectively reinstall drivers to troubleshoot and resolve the “PAGE FAULT IN NONPAGED AREA” error. This systematic approach minimizes the likelihood of errors and fosters a smoother and more successful driver reinstallation process.

Solution #6: Disable Automatic Paging File Management

Disabling automatic paging file management can be a useful approach to tackling this problem. The paging file, also known as virtual memory, acts as an extension of physical RAM and is utilized by the operating system to store data that doesn’t fit into physical memory. However, mismanagement of the paging file can sometimes lead to errors like the one you’re facing.

To disable automatic paging file management, follow these steps:

  1. Access System Properties: Right-click on the “This PC” or “My Computer” icon and select “Properties” from the context menu.
  2. Navigate to Advanced System Settings: In the System Properties window, click on the “Advanced system settings” option found in the left-hand pane. This action will open the System Properties dialog box.
  3. Access Virtual Memory Settings: Within the System Properties dialog box, head to the “Advanced” tab and click on the “Settings” button under the “Performance” section. This action will open the Performance Options dialog box.
  4. Adjust Virtual Memory Settings: In the Performance Options dialog box, navigate to the “Advanced” tab and click on the “Change” button under the “Virtual memory” section. This will open the Virtual Memory dialog box.
  5. Disable Automatic Paging File Management: In the Virtual Memory dialog box, uncheck the box next to “Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.” This action allows you to manually configure the paging file settings.
  6. Set Custom Paging File Size: After disabling automatic paging file management, select the drive containing your paging file (usually the C: drive) and opt for the “Custom size” option. Input the initial size and maximum size for the paging file based on your system’s requirements. It’s advisable to set the initial size to match the amount of physical RAM installed on your system, and the maximum size to double that amount.
  7. Apply Changes and Restart: Once you’ve configured the paging file settings, click on the “Set” button followed by the “OK” button to apply the changes. You may need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

By disabling automatic paging file management and manually configuring the paging file settings, you can potentially address issues related to virtual memory management and reduce the likelihood of encountering any blue-screen error.

Solution #7: Disable Memory Compression

Memory compression is a feature in Windows that dynamically reduces the size of data before writing it to RAM. This process helps your computer store more files in physical memory, reducing reliance on page files, which can slow down performance during high RAM usage scenarios. Memory compression is a valuable feature, but there are situations where disabling it might be necessary or preferred.

One scenario where you might want to disable memory compression is if you have ample RAM installed on your computer. In such cases, the benefits of memory compression may be negligible, and disabling it could free up system resources. Additionally, memory compression might conflict with certain applications or drivers, causing compatibility issues, performance degradation, or blue screen errors.

To disable memory compression, you can use a command in the Command Prompt:

  1. Open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges. You can do this by searching for “Command Prompt” in the Start menu, right-clicking on it, and selecting “Run as administrator.”
  2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter: Disable-MMAgent -mc
  3. This command instructs Windows to disable memory compression.Disable Memory Compression

By disabling memory compression, you can potentially improve system performance, resolve compatibility issues, or simply customize your system according to your preferences.

Solution #8: Turn Off RAM’s XMP In BIOS

XMP, or Extreme Memory Profile, is a feature commonly found in BIOS settings that allows RAM modules to operate at higher frequencies or timings than the standard JEDEC specifications. While XMP can boost system performance by overclocking RAM, it can also lead to instability if not configured correctly.

If you’re encountering this BSOD error, XMP settings in your BIOS may be contributing to the problem. To resolve this, you can disable XMP in your BIOS settings, here’s how:

  1. Access BIOS Settings: Restart your computer and access the BIOS settings by pressing a specific key during the boot process, such as Del, F2, or F10. The key to access BIOS varies depending on your computer’s manufacturer. >> BIOS Setup: What It Is & How To Open Or Use It?
  2. Locate XMP Settings: Once in the BIOS settings, navigate to the section related to memory or overclocking. Look for options related to XMP or memory profiles, which may have different labels depending on your motherboard manufacturer.
  3. Disable XMP: Select the option to disable XMP or revert to default memory settings. This action ensures that your RAM operates at its standard JEDEC specifications, which can help resolve stability issues associated with the error.Turn Off RAM's XMP In BIOS
  4. Save and Exit: After disabling XMP, save your changes and exit the BIOS settings. This typically involves selecting the option to save changes and reboot your system.

By turning off XMP in your BIOS settings, you can eliminate potential instability caused by overclocked RAM modules and enhance system reliability. However, keep in mind that disabling XMP may result in slightly lower RAM performance compared to when XMP is enabled. If the error persists after disabling XMP, consider exploring more troubleshooting steps to address the underlying issue.

Solution #9: RAM Test

Performing a RAM test is a crucial step in diagnosing and resolving the blue screen error, as problems with your computer’s RAM (Random Access Memory) are often the root cause of such errors. One reliable tool for conducting a thorough RAM test is MemTest86.

MemTest86 is a widely trusted memory diagnostic tool designed specifically to identify and pinpoint potential issues with your system’s RAM modules. By running MemTest86, you can uncover memory errors such as faulty RAM modules, incorrect memory timings, or other memory-related issues that may be contributing to this blue screen error.

To conduct a RAM test using MemTest86, follow these steps:

  1. Download MemTest86: Start by downloading the MemTest86 software from its official website. You can choose between the free version or the paid version, depending on your needs and preferences.
  2. Create a Bootable USB Drive: After downloading MemTest86, you’ll need to create a bootable USB drive using the provided ISO image file. Utilize third-party software like Rufus or Etcher to create the bootable USB drive. >> How To Make Bootable USB Flash Drive – Explained
  3. Boot from the USB Drive: Insert the bootable USB drive into your computer and restart the system. Access the boot menu or BIOS settings during startup (usually by pressing a specific key like F2, F8, or Del) and set the USB drive as the primary boot device. >> Quick Boot USB or CD/DVD Directly From Boot Menu: Step-By-Step Guide
  4. Run MemTest86: Once your computer boots from the USB drive, MemTest86 will automatically initiate and begin testing your system’s RAM. The test will progress through multiple passes, thoroughly examining each memory module for errors.MemTest86 main display
  5. Monitor Test Results: Throughout the testing process, MemTest86 will display any errors or issues detected in your system’s RAM. It’s crucial to carefully monitor these results to identify any problematic memory modules.
  6. Replace Faulty RAM: If MemTest86 detects errors or issues with your RAM modules, it’s recommended to replace the faulty modules with new ones. Ensure to purchase compatible RAM modules that meet the specifications of your system.

For step-by-step guide; RAM Test: Testing PC’s RAM Is Working Properly or Not

Solution #10: Graphics Memory Test

Conducting a graphics memory test can help diagnose and address issues related to graphics memory that may be contributing to the error. A reliable tool for this purpose is CINEBENCH, which is widely recognized for its capability to stress test graphics memory effectively.

Here’s how you can perform a graphics memory test using CINEBENCH:

  1. Download and Install CINEBENCH: Begin by downloading the CINEBENCH software from a reputable source and installing it on your computer. CINEBENCH is available for free and can be easily found through an online search.
  2. Launch CINEBENCH: Once installed, launch the CINEBENCH application on your computer.
  3. Access Graphics Test: Within the CINEBENCH interface, locate the option to run a graphics test. This test specifically stresses the graphics memory of your system, helping to identify any potential issues.
  4. Run the Test: Initiate the graphics test within CINEBENCH and allow it to run for a sufficient duration. During the test, CINEBENCH will stress the graphics memory to its maximum capacity, providing insights into its performance and stability.
  5. Monitor Test Results: Throughout the test, monitor the results provided by CINEBENCH. Pay close attention to any error messages, artifacts, or abnormal behavior exhibited during the test, as these may indicate issues with the graphics memory.Initiate the graphics test within CINEBENCH
  6. Take Necessary Action: Depending on the results of the graphics memory test, you may need to take appropriate action to resolve any identified issues. This could involve troubleshooting hardware components, updating drivers, or seeking assistance from a professional technician.

By conducting a graphics memory test using CINEBENCH, you can effectively assess the performance and stability of your system’s graphics memory, helping to pinpoint and resolve any issues that may be contributing to the PAGE FAULT IN NONPAGED AREA error.


#: What To Do If Nothing Works?searching-for answer-toon

If you find yourself in a situation where none of the previous solutions seem to work, don’t despair. There’s still hope! You can try utilizing the comprehensive steps outlined in another helpful resource: “Fixing BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) Error: Every Possible Solution“.

This article provides a thorough guide covering a wide range of potential solutions to tackle the dreaded BSOD error. From troubleshooting techniques to advanced fixes, you’ll find a variety of strategies to help resolve the issue and get your system back on track.

So, if you’re at your wit’s end and nothing else seems to do the trick, give the methods outlined in this article a shot—they just might be the key to resolving your problem once and for all.





4 COMMENTS

  1. Hi Madhur, I am getting this error on old XP laptop at startup, but laptop is working fine if I select Safe Mode. What do you think is the most likely problem?

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