Solved: SPIN LOCK NOT OWNED (0X00000010) BSOD Crash on Windows 10/11

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Solved: SPIN LOCK NOT OWNED (0X00000010) BSOD Crash on Windows 10/11

The SPIN_LOCK_NOT_OWNED (0x00000010) Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is a critical error that can suddenly crash your Windows 10 or 11 system, often without warning. This error typically occurs when the operating system attempts to acquire a spin locka synchronization mechanism used by multiple threads to access shared resourcesbut fails because another thread already owns it. While this issue is more common in advanced programming scenarios, it can also appear due to hardware conflicts, corrupted system files, or driver issues.

When this BSOD occurs, your screen may display the error message:

Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart.
We're just collecting some error info, then we'll restart for you.

If you'd like to see what data that error was when it happened, please check the PC's event log.

What Causes the SPIN_LOCK_NOT_OWNED (0x00000010) Error?

The error usually stems from one or more of the following causes:

  • Corrupted system files or registry entries: Critical Windows components may become damaged due to improper shutdowns, malware, or failed updates.
  • Faulty or outdated drivers, particularly those related to hardware acceleration, graphics, or storage controllers (e.g., Intel HD Graphics, NVidia, AMD, or third-party software like Adobe or antivirus programs).
  • Hardware issues: Faulty RAM, overheating CPU/GPU, or failing storage drives can trigger synchronization errors.
  • Incompatible or conflicting software, such as overclocking tools, virtualization software (e.g., VMware), or poorly coded applications.
  • Windows updates or recent changes

How to Fix SPIN_LOCK_NOT_OWNED (0x00000010) BSOD

Method 1: Run System File Checker and DISM

Corrupted system files are a common culprit. Use Microsofts built-in tools to repair them:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator. Press Win + X, then select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  • Run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    sfc /scannow

  • Wait for both processes to complete (this may take several minutes). Restart your PC afterward.

Method 2: Check and Repair Disk Errors

A failing or corrupted hard drive can trigger this error. Use CHKDSK to scan your disk:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Type the following command (replace C with your system drive if needed):
    chkdsk C: /f /r /x

  • Press Enter. If prompted, type Y to confirm.
  • Restart your computer and check for improvements after the scan completes.

Method 3: Update or Roll Back Drivers

Outdated or conflicting drivers are a leading cause. Update them manually:

  • Press Win + X, then select Device Manager.
  • Expand categories like Display adapters, System devices, or Storage controllers.
  • Right-click any device with a yellow exclamation mark (!) and select Update driver. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
  • Alternative: If the issue started after a Windows update, roll back the driver. Right-click the driver, select Properties, then Driver tab, and click Roll Back Driver if available.

Method 4: Disable Overclocking or Virtualization Software

If you use overclocking tools (e.g., Intel XTU, MSI Afterburner) or virtual machines (VMware, VirtualBox), disable them temporarily to check if theyre the cause. Revert any overclock settings in BIOS/UEFI.

Method 5: Perform a Clean Boot

A conflicting background process may trigger the error. Use Clean Boot to isolate the issue:

  • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  • Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
  • Go to the Startup tab, click Open Task Manager, and disable all startup items.
  • Restart your PC. If the BSOD doesnt occur, a third-party program is likely the cause. Re-enable services/apps one by one to identify the culprit.

Method 6: Check for Windows Updates

Install the latest updates, as Microsoft often patches known issues:

  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Click Check for updates, then install any available updates.
  • Restart your PC afterward.

Method 7: Reset or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)

If all else fails, reset your PC to factory settings or perform a clean installation of Windows. Back up important data first:

  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
  • Under Reset this PC, choose Keep my files or Remove everything (recommended for severe issues).
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this error caused by hardware failure?

A: It can be, especially if RAM or storage is faulty. Run diagnostics like Windows Memory Diagnostic to test RAM.

Q: Can third-party antivirus software cause this?

A: Yes. Try disabling your antivirus temporarily or switching to Windows Defender to test if it resolves the issue.

Q: Will a factory reset fix this permanently?

A: A clean install of Windows often resolves persistent issues, but ensure you update all drivers post-reset and avoid reinstalling problematic software.

Q: How can I prevent future BSODs?

A: Keep your system updated, avoid overclocking unless necessary, and monitor hardware health (e.g., CPU/GPU temperatures). Use reliable, stable drivers from official sources.

Final Notes

The SPIN_LOCK_NOT_OWNED (0x00000010) BSOD is rare but frustrating. Start with basic fixes like SFC and DISM, then progress to driver updates or clean boot if needed. If the issue persists after trying these steps, hardware diagnostics may be necessary. For advanced troubleshooting, consider seeking professional help or contacting Microsoft Support.

If youve successfully resolved this error, share your solution in the comments below to help others! Otherwise, let us know which method worked for you so we can improve this guide.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Tested on: Windows 10 (22H2) & Windows 11 (23H2)

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