Fixing DRIVER POWER STATE FAILURE (0X0000006A) Stop Code on Windows 10 & 11 – Step by Step

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Fixing DRIVER POWER STATE FAILURE (0X0000006A) Stop Code on Windows 10 & 11 Step by Step

The DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE (0x0000006A) error, also known as the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), is a common issue in Windows that can cause your system to crash unexpectedly. This error typically occurs when Windows fails to transition a driver or hardware component into a low-power state, often related to power management settings, outdated drivers, or hardware conflicts. Below, well explain what this error means, its common causes, and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

What Causes the DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE (0X0000006A) Error?

The error usually appears due to:

  • Outdated or corrupted device drivers, especially for graphics cards, network adapters, or storage controllers.
  • Incompatible or poorly written third-party drivers (e.g., antivirus software, virtual machine software).
  • Faulty hardware components, such as a failing hard drive or RAM issues.
  • Incorrect power management settings in Windows, particularly for USB devices or sleep/wake configurations.
  • Corrupted system files due to incomplete updates or malware interference.

How to Fix DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE (0X0000006A)

Method 1: Update or Roll Back Drivers

Outdated drivers are a leading cause of this error. Follow these steps to update them:

  • Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  • Expand the category related to the problematic device (e.g., Display adapters, Network adapters, or Storage controllers).
  • Right-click the device, choose Properties, then go to the Driver tab.
  • Click Update driver. If an update is available, install it. If not, select Roll Back Driver if available.
  • Restart your PC after updating.

Method 2: Disable Fast Startup and Power Saving Features

Fast startup can sometimes conflict with driver power states. To disable it:

  • Open Control Panel, then go to Power Options.
  • Click Choose what the power buttons do (left panel).
  • Click Change settings that are currently unavailable (requires admin rights).
  • Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended) and click Save changes.
  • Restart your computer.

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.
  • Run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each: 
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    sfc /scannow
  • Wait for the process to complete (may take several minutes). Restart your PC afterward.

Method 4: Check for Hardware Issues with CHKDSK

If a failing hard drive is the cause, run CHKDSK to check for errors:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Run: 
    chkdsk C: /f /r

    (Replace “C” with your system drive if needed.)

  • Press Y to confirm and wait for the scan to finish. Restart afterward.

Method 5: Disable USB Selective Suspend

If the error occurs with USB devices, disable selective suspend:

  • Go to Control Panel > Power Options.
  • Click Change plan settings for your current power plan.
  • Click Change advanced power settings, then expand USB settings.
  • Set both USB selective suspend setting to Disabled and click Apply.

Method 6: Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft often releases fixes for driver-related issues. Ensure your system is up to date:

  • Press Win + I, go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

Method 7: Test for Malware or Driver Conflicts

Third-party drivers (e.g., antivirus, virtualization software) can cause this error. Try the following:

  • Boot into Safe Mode (hold Shift + Restart during startup).
  • Uninstall recently installed programs via Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
  • Reinstall critical drivers from the manufacturers website if needed.

FAQs About DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE (0X0000006A)

Q: Will this error damage my hardware?

A: No, a BSOD like this is non-destructive to your data or hardware. Its a software-related issue.

Q: Should I replace my hard drive if this happens?

A: Not necessarily. Run chkdsk first (see Method 4). If errors persist, consider hardware diagnostics.

Q: Can third-party software cause this error?

A: Yes. Try disabling recently installed programs or running a scan with your antivirus to rule out malware.

Q: How often should I check for driver updates?

A: At least once a month, especially after major Windows updates. Use Device Manager to verify.

Final Notes

The DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE error is usually resolvable with driver updates or system file repairs. If the issue persists after trying these steps, consider checking your hardware (RAM, hard drive) using manufacturer diagnostics or consulting a professional technician. For advanced troubleshooting, tools like Windows Memory Diagnostic can help identify deeper issues.

If youve successfully resolved the error, share your solution in the comments to help others! Let us know if you need further assistance.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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

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