How to Fix PROCESS HAS LOCKED PAGES (0X00000060) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11
The PROCESS HAS LOCKED PAGES (0x00000060) Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is a frustrating error that can occur on Windows 10 and 11, often leading to system crashes or unexpected shutdowns. This error typically appears when the operating system detects that a process has locked memory pages that should not be locked, which can cause instability in your system. Below, well explain what this error means, its common causes, and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.
What Causes the PROCESS HAS LOCKED PAGES (0X00000060) BSOD?
The 0x00000060 error usually occurs due to one or more of the following reasons:
- Corrupted system files: Damaged or missing critical Windows files can trigger this error.
- Faulty hardware drivers
- Overclocking or BIOS settings
- Malware or security software interference
- Incompatible or outdated device drivers
- Memory (RAM) issues
- Third-party software conflicts
How to Fix PROCESS HAS LOCKED PAGES (0X00000060) BSOD
### **Method 1: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM**
A corrupted system file can cause this error. Running sfc /scannow and DISM can repair missing or damaged files.
- Press Win + X, then select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow - Wait for the scan to complete. If errors are found, they will be repaired automatically.
- Next, run DISM with the following command (this may take longer):
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Restart your PC and check if the issue persists.
### **Method 2: Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers**
Outdated or faulty drivers can trigger this BSOD. Heres how to update them:
- Press Win + X, then select Device Manager.
- Look for devices with a yellow exclamation mark (problematic hardware).
- Right-click the device, choose Update driver, and follow the prompts.
- If updating doesnt work, try reinstalling the driver:
- Right-click the device again and select Uninstall device.
- Check Delete the driver software for this device (if available).
- Restart your PC to force Windows to reinstall the driver.
### **Method 3: Check for Memory Issues with CHKDSK**
Faulty RAM can cause memory-related BSODs. Run chkdsk to check for disk errors:
- Open Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type the following command and press Enter:
chkdsk /f /r - If prompted, confirm to run the scan on the next system restart.
- Restart your PC to complete the scan.
### **Method 4: Disable Overclocking or Adjust BIOS Settings**
If youve overclocked your CPU/GPU or modified BIOS settings, reset them to default:
- Restart your PC and enter BIOS (usually by pressing F2, F12, DEL, or ESC during boot).
- Look for options like Overclocking, XMP/DOCP, or Power Settings.
- Disable any overclocking features and reset to default settings.
- Save changes and exit BIOS.
### **Method 5: Check for Malware or Security Software Conflicts**
Some security software (e.g., antivirus, VPNs) may interfere with system processes. Try the following:
- Temporarily disable third-party antivirus/firewall.
- Run a full system scan using Windows Defender or trusted malware removal tools.
- If the issue resolves after disabling security software, adjust its settings or uninstall it.
### **Method 6: Perform a Clean Boot to Identify Software Conflicts**
A clean boot helps determine if third-party software is causing the BSOD:
- 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 in clean boot mode. If no BSOD occurs, a background app is likely the cause.
### **Method 7: Update Windows and Drivers**
Ensure your system and drivers are up to date:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install pending updates.
- For drivers, use Windows Update or manufacturer-provided tools (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel).
### **Method 8: Check for Hardware Issues**
If the BSOD persists, test your RAM and hardware:
- Use Windows Memory Diagnostic to check for RAM errors.
- Test other components (e.g., GPU, motherboard) by swapping them with known-working hardware if possible.
FAQ About PROCESS HAS LOCKED PAGES (0X00000060)
Q: Will this error delete my files?
A: No, the BSOD does not damage your files. However, unsaved work may be lost if the system crashes unexpectedly.
Q: Should I reinstall Windows if nothing works?
A: Only as a last resort. Try the methods above first, as they often resolve the issue without a clean install.
Q: Can third-party RAM overclocking cause this error?
A: Yes, manual overclocking can lead to instability and BSODs. Reset BIOS settings if youve modified them.
Q: How often does this error occur on Windows 10 vs. Windows 11?
A: Both versions are affected, but Windows 11 may handle memory management more efficiently in some cases. Ensure updates are installed.
Final Thoughts
The PROCESS HAS LOCKED PAGES (0x00000060) BSOD can be resolved by checking system files, updating drivers, and ensuring hardware stability. If the issue persists after trying these steps, consider seeking professional help or checking your PCs hardware for defects. Always back up important data before making significant changes to your system.
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Tested on: Windows 10 (22H2) & Windows 11 (23H2)