How to Fix OBJECT INITIALIZATION FAILED (0X00000061) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

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How to Fix OBJECT_INITIALIZATION_FAILED (0X00000061) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

The OBJECT_INITIALIZATION_FAILED (0x00000061) Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is a critical error that can suddenly appear during normal operation, causing your system to crash and restart. This error typically occurs when Windows fails to initialize an object or driver properly, often due to hardware issues, corrupted system files, or outdated drivers. While frustrating, this BSOD is usually fixable with the right troubleshooting steps.

In this guide, well explain what causes the 0x00000061 error, how to identify it, and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it on Windows 10 and 11. Follow these methods in order, starting with the simplest fixes before moving to more advanced ones.

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What Causes the OBJECT_INITIALIZATION_FAILED (0x000061) BSOD?

The OBJECT_INITIALIZATION_FAILED error occurs when Windows cannot properly initialize a system component, often related to:

  • Corrupted or outdated device drivers, especially graphics, storage, or network drivers.
  • Faulty hardware, such as RAM, hard drives, or overheating components.
  • Malware or system file corruption due to improper shutdowns or disk errors.
  • Incompatible software or drivers installed recently (e.g., antivirus, game overlays, or performance tools).
  • Windows updates or driver conflicts, especially after installing new updates.

The error may appear with a message like:


Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart. We'll restart for you.
If the problem continues, you can search online later for this error code:
OBJECT_INITIALIZATION_FAILED
0x00000061

If your system restarts automatically, check the Event Viewer (search for “Event Viewer” in the Start menu) to see if additional details are logged under Windows Logs > System. This can help pinpoint the problematic driver or service.

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How to Fix OBJECT_INITIALIZATION_FAILED (0x00000061)

### **Method 1: Perform a Clean Boot to Check for Software Conflicts**
A clean boot starts Windows with only essential drivers, helping isolate whether third-party software is causing the issue.

  • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  • Go to the Services tab. Check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
  • Switch to the Startup tab, click Open Task Manager, and disable all startup items.
  • Restart your PC. If the BSOD doesnt appear, a background app or service is likely the cause.
  • Re-enable services/startup items one by one to identify the culprit.

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### **Method 2: Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers**
Outdated or buggy drivers are a common cause of this error, especially for graphics (GPU) or storage controllers.

  • Press Win + X, then select Device Manager.
  • Expand categories like Display adapters, Storage controllers, or Network adapters. Right-click any device with a yellow exclamation mark and select Update driver.
  • Choose Search automatically for drivers. If no updates are found, proceed to the next step.
  • Reinstall the driver:
    • Right-click the device again and select Uninstall device, then check Delete the driver software for this device.
    • Restart your PC. Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.
  • For GPU drivers (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD), download the latest version from the manufacturers website instead of using Windows Update.

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### **Method 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM**
Corrupted system files can trigger this error. Use these built-in tools to repair them:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search for “cmd,” right-click, and choose Run as administrator).
  • Run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    sfc /scannow
  • Restart your PC after both commands complete.

If DISM fails, try running it with a Windows installation media (USB/DVD):

  • Boot from the Windows installation USB, select Repair your computer, then Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
  • Run:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:C:\repair_source\install.wim /LimitAccessPath:C:\repair_source

    • (Replace C: with your installation media drive letter if needed.)

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### **Method 4: Check for Disk Errors with CHKDSK**
A failing hard drive or SSD can cause this error. Run CHKDSK to scan and repair disk issues:

  • Open Command Prompt (Admin).
  • Run:chkdsk C: /f /r

    • (Replace C: with your system drive if needed.)

  • If prompted, type Y to confirm and restart your PC.
  • Check the Event Viewer after reboot for any errors reported.

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### **Method 5: Test Hardware for Faults**
Hardware issues (RAM, overheating, or failing storage) often trigger this BSOD.

  • Test RAM:
    • Use Windows Memory Diagnostic:
      • Search for Windows Memory Diagnostics, click Restart now and check for problems.
      • Follow on-screen instructions to test RAM. If errors are found, replace the faulty stick.
  • Check overheating:
    • Download a tool like HWMonitor to monitor CPU/GPU temperatures.
    • Clean dust from fans and ensure proper airflow. Reapply thermal paste if needed.
  • Test storage:

    • —

    ### **Method 6: Roll Back or Disable Recent Windows Updates**
    If the error started after a Windows update, roll back the problematic update:

    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history.
    • Click Uninstall updates, then remove recent updates one by one (start with the most recent).
    • Restart after each uninstallation and test for stability.

    Alternatively, disable automatic updates temporarily to prevent future issues:

    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Advanced options.
    • Under Pause updates, select a delay (e.g., 7 days) or toggle Receive updates on this device off.

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    ### **Method 7: Perform a System Restore**
    If the error started after installing new software, restore your system to a previous stable state:

    • Search for Create a restore point, then click System Protection > System Restore.
    • Choose a restore point from before the issue began (select Show more restore points if needed).
    • Follow the prompts to confirm and restart your PC.

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    ### **Method 8: Reset or Reinstall Windows**
    If all else fails, reset or reinstall Windows:

    • Reset this PC (keeps files):
      • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC.
      • Choose Keep my files and follow the prompts.
    • Clean install (recommended for severe corruption):
      • Download the Windows media creation tool from Microsoft (Windows 10/Windows 11).
      • Create a bootable USB, then install Windows fresh while keeping personal files.

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    FAQ About OBJECT_INITIALIZATION_FAILED (0x00000061)

    Q: Will this error delete my data?
    A: No, the BSOD itself doesnt harm your files. However, if its caused by a failing drive, back up important data immediately to prevent loss.

    Q: Can I ignore this error and keep using my PC?
    A: No. This is a critical system failure that can lead to data corruption or permanent hardware damage if ignored. Follow the fixes above promptly.

    Q: Why does this happen after a Windows update?
    A: Updates sometimes include buggy drivers or conflict with existing software. Use Settings > Update & Security > View update history to roll back problematic updates.

    Q: How do I check which driver is causing the error?
    A: Open Event Viewer > Windows Logs > System, look for entries with “Error” under Source. The description often names the faulty driver (e.g., nvlddmkm.sys for NVIDIA).

    Q: Is this a hardware or software issue?
    A: It can be either. Start with software fixes (drivers, updates) before testing hardware (RAM, storage). If the problem persists after reinstalling Windows, its likely hardware-related.

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    Final Notes

    The OBJECT_INITIALIZATION_FAILED (0x00000061) BSOD is usually resolvable with patience and systematic troubleshooting. Start with driver updates, system file repairs, and hardware checks before considering a clean install. If the issue persists after trying all steps, consult Microsoft Support or a professional technician to rule out hardware failure.

    For future prevention:

    • Regularly update drivers (especially GPU) via manufacturer websites.
    • Use reliable antivirus software and scan for malware periodically.
    • Avoid abrupt shutdowns or force-restarts to prevent file corruption.
    • Monitor system temperatures with tools like HWMonitor.

    By following this guide, you should be able to stabilize your system and avoid recurring BSODs. If the problem continues, share details (e.g., error logs) in forums like Microsoft Answers for further help.

    Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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

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