Fixing UNSUPPORTED PROCESSOR (0X0000005D) Stop Code on Windows 10 & 11 – Step by Step

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Fixing UNSUPPORTED PROCESSOR (0X0000005D) Stop Code on Windows 10 & 11 Step by Step

Understanding the UNSUPPORTED PROCESSOR (0x0000005D) Error

The **UNSUPPORTED PROCESSOR** stop code (0x0000005D) is a critical error that causes your Windows system to crash, often referred to as a **Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)**. This error indicates that your computer’s processor (CPU) or its configuration is not recognized by the operating system, leading to system instability. Unlike hardware-related BSODs, this issue typically stems from software conflicts, outdated drivers, or incorrect BIOS/UEFI settings.

When this error appears, your screen may display a blue screen with the following message:

This article provides step-by-step solutions to resolve the **0x0000005D** error and prevent future occurrences.

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Common Causes of the UNSUPPORTED PROCESSOR (0x00005D) Error

The error can be triggered by several factors, including:

  • **Outdated or corrupted system files**
  • **Incompatible or faulty drivers**, especially graphics or chipset drivers
  • **Overclocking** (if enabled in BIOS/UEFI)
  • **Corrupted Windows installation**
  • **Hardware issues**, such as a failing CPU or motherboard
  • **Conflicting software or recent updates**
  • **Incorrect BIOS/UEFI settings**, such as disabled virtualization or security features

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Step-by-Step Fixes for UNSUPPORTED_PROCESSOR (0x00005D)

# Method 1: Update or Roll Back Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers are a leading cause of this error. Follow these steps to update or roll back problematic drivers:

Update Drivers Using Windows Settings

1. **Boot into Safe Mode**:

  • Restart your PC and repeatedly press the **F8** key (or **Shift + F8** for newer Windows versions) before the Windows logo appears.
  • Select **Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings**, then restart to enter Safe Mode with Networking.

2. **Update Graphics Drivers**:

  • Press **Win + X** and select **Device Manager**.
  • Expand **Display adapters**, right-click your GPU (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel), and choose **Update driver > Search automatically for drivers**.
  • Restart your PC after updating.

3. **Update Chipset Drivers**:

  • In Device Manager, expand **System devices** and **Other devices**. Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark ().
  • Right-click the device and select **Update driver**.

4. **Roll Back Drivers (if recently updated)**:

  • If you installed a driver that caused the issue, right-click it in Device Manager, select **Properties > Driver > Roll Back Driver**.

Use Windows Update to Install Missing Drivers

  • Press **Win + I** to open **Settings**, go to **Update & Security > Windows Update**.
  • Click **Check for updates** and install any available driver or optional updates.
  • Restart your PC afterward.

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# Method 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can trigger this error. Use built-in tools to repair them:

Run SFC Scan

1. Open **Command Prompt as Administrator**:

  • Press **Win + X**, then select **Terminal (Admin)** or **Command Prompt (Admin)**.

2. Run the following command and wait for the scan to complete:

sfc /scannow

3. Restart your PC after the process finishes.

Run DISM Repair

If SFC doesnt resolve the issue, run **Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)**:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  • Wait for the process to complete (this may take several minutes).
  • Restart your PC afterward.

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# Method 3: Check and Reset BIOS/UEFI Settings

Incorrect BIOS settings can cause Windows to reject your processor. Reset them to default:

Enter BIOS/UEFI and Reset Settings

1. **Restart your PC** and enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing **Del, F2, or F12** during boot).

2. Look for options like:

  • **Load Optimized Defaults** (select this to reset all settings).
  • **Disable Overclocking**: Ensure features like **Turbo Boost, C-States, or SpeedStep** are enabled.
  • **Enable Virtualization**: Check that **SVM Mode (AMD) or VT-x (Intel)** is enabled if using virtual machines.

3. Save changes (**F10**) and exit.

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# Method 4: Disable Overclocking

If youve overclocked your CPU, this can trigger the error:

Disable Overclocking in BIOS/UEFI

  • Enter BIOS/UEFI (as described above).
  • Navigate to **Performance** or **Overclocking settings**.
  • Set **CPU Multiplier** and **Voltage** back to **Auto/Auto**.
  • Save changes and exit.

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# Method 5: Check for Hardware Issues

If the error persists, your CPU or motherboard may be faulty:

Test Your Hardware

1. **Check Event Viewer for Errors**:

  • Press **Win + X > Event Viewer**.
  • Go to **Windows Logs > System** and look for errors related to hardware (e.g., “CPU” or “ACPI”).

2. **Monitor Temperatures**:

  • Use third-party tools like **HWMonitor** to check CPU/GPU temperatures.

3. **Test RAM**:

  • Run **Memory Diagnostics**:
mdsched.exe

Select **Restart now and check for problems**.

4. **Inspect Physical Connections**:

  • Ensure your CPU is properly seated in the socket (if comfortable doing so).
  • Reseat RAM sticks if possible.

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# Method 6: Perform a Clean Windows Install

If software corruption persists, reinstalling Windows may be necessary:

Backup Data and Reset Windows

1. **Back up important files** to an external drive or cloud storage.

2. **Create a Windows installation media**:

  • Download the [Windows 10/11 Media Creation Tool](https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows10) from Microsoft.
  • Use it to create a bootable USB drive.

3. **Reinstall Windows**:

  • Boot from the USB, select **Install now**, and choose **Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)**.
  • Select your system drive and proceed with a clean install.

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FAQs About UNSUPPORTED_PROCESSOR (0x00005D)

Why does this error appear after a recent Windows update?

Windows updates sometimes introduce compatibility issues, especially if your hardware isnt fully supported in the latest version. Rolling back drivers or delaying updates may help.

Can a faulty CPU cause this error?

Yes, but its rare. If other methods fail, test with a known-working CPU (if possible) to rule out hardware failure.

Will resetting BIOS fix the issue permanently?

Resetting BIOS may temporarily resolve the problem, but if the error persists, deeper system checks or driver updates are needed.

Is this error related to antivirus software?

Some security suites (e.g., third-party antivirus) can interfere with system stability. Try disabling them temporarily to test.

How do I prevent future BSODs?

  • Keep drivers and Windows updated.
  • Avoid overclocking unless necessary.
  • Use reliable hardware from trusted manufacturers.
  • Regularly run **SFC** and **DISM** scans (monthly).

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By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the **UNSUPPORTED_PROCESSOR (0x00005D)** error. If the issue persists, consult Microsoft Support or a professional technician for further diagnosis.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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

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