Solved: PAGE FAULT IN NONPAGED AREA (0X00000050) BSOD Crash on Windows 10/11
The PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA (0x00000050) Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is a critical error that can suddenly crash your Windows system, often without warning. This error occurs when the operating system attempts to access memory that it shouldnt or when a driver tries to read from an invalid memory location. While frustrating, this issue is usually fixable with the right troubleshooting steps. Below, well explain what causes this BSOD and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.
What Causes the PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA Error?
The error typically appears due to:
- Corrupt system files: Damaged or missing critical Windows components can trigger this BSOD.
- Faulty drivers: Outdated, incompatible, or corrupted drivers (especially graphics, storage, or network drivers) are common culprits.
- Hardware issues
Malfunctioning RAM or a failing hard drive can cause memory access violations.
- Software conflicts: Incompatible applications or recent updates may conflict with system processes.
- Antivirus/firewall interference: Overly aggressive security software can interfere with system operations.
How to Fix PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA (0x00000050)
Method 1: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Corrupt system files are a leading cause of this BSOD. Use Windows built-in tools to repair them:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
- Press
Win + X, then select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin). - If prompted, click Yes to allow changes.
- Press
- Run SFC Scan:
sfc /scannowWait for the scan to complete (this may take several minutes). Restart your PC afterward.
- Run DISM Repair:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthThis repairs deeper system corruption. Reboot after completion.
Method 2: Update or Roll Back Drivers
Faulty drivers often trigger this error. Update them manually:
- Open Device Manager:
- Press
Win + X, then select Device Manager. - Look for devices with a yellow exclamation mark (e.g., Display adapters, Disk drives).
- Press
- Update Drivers:
- Right-click the problematic device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers. If no updates are found, proceed to roll back.
- Roll Back Drivers (if available):
- Right-click the driver, select Properties, then Driver tab.
- Click Roll Back Driver if the option is available.
Method 3: Check for Hardware Issues
Faulty RAM or a failing hard drive can cause this error. Test them with these steps:
- Run CHKDSK to check the hard drive:
chkdsk /f /rPress Y if prompted, then restart your PC.
- Test RAM using Windows Memory Diagnostic:
- Search for Windows Memory Diagnostic, open it, and select Restart now and check for problems.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to test RAM.
- Check for overheating or loose connections:
- Ensure all cables (RAM, GPU, storage) are securely seated.
- Clean dust from fans and vents if your system runs hot.
Method 4: Disable Antivirus Temporarily
Some security software may interfere with system processes. Test this:
- Open your antivirus/firewall settings and disable real-time protection temporarily.
- Restart your PC to see if the BSOD persists.
- If the issue resolves, whitelist Windows system files or adjust exclusions in your antivirus.
Method 5: Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot starts Windows with minimal drivers/services to isolate conflicts:
- Open Task Manager:
- Press
Ctrl + Shift + Esc, go to the Startup tab. - Click Open Task Manager (if needed).
- Press
- Disable Startup Items:
- In Task Manager, select all startup apps and click Disable.
- Use MSConfig for a Clean Boot:
msconfigUnder the Boot tab, check Safe boot: Minimal, then click OK.
Restart and test if the BSOD appears.
Method 6: Reinstall Problematic Drivers or Software
If a specific driver or program causes the crash:
- Uninstall the latest updates:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click View update history, then Uninstall updates.
- Reinstall the driver:
- Download the latest driver from the manufacturers website (e.g., NVIDIA, Intel).
- Install it in Compatibility Mode if needed.
FAQ: Common Questions About PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA
Q: Will this damage my hard drive?
A: No, the BSOD itself doesnt harm your data, but a failing drive may cause permanent corruption. Run chkdsk /f /r to check for errors.
Q: Should I run SFC and DISM multiple times?
A: Yes! Repeat these commands if the first scan doesnt fix the issue, as some corruptions require multiple passes.
Q: Can this error be hardware-related even with new PCs?
A: Yes. Newer hardware (e.g., GPUs or RAM) can sometimes have defects. Test components one by one if the problem persists.
Q: Will a Windows Reset fix it permanently?
A: A reset may resolve deep system corruption, but identify and update drivers afterward to prevent recurrence.
Q: How do I check the BSOD error log for details?
A: Open Event Viewer (search for it in the Start menu), navigate to Windows Logs > System, and look for recent critical errors.
Final Notes
The PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA error is usually fixable with patience. Start with SFC/DISM, then systematically test drivers, hardware, and software. If the issue persists after trying all steps, consider professional diagnostics or hardware replacement if a component (like RAM) is faulty. Always back up important data before making major changes.
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Tested on: Windows 10 (22H2) & Windows 11 (23H2)