Solved: acpi.sys BSOD Crash on Windows 10/11

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Solved: acpi.sys BSOD Crash on Windows 10/11

The acpi.sys file is a critical system driver in Windows responsible for managing power states, hardware communication with the motherboard, and device sleep/wake cycles. When this driver encounters issuessuch as corruption, conflicts, or outdated versionsit can trigger the dreaded **Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)** on Windows 10 or 11. These crashes often occur during startup, sleep mode transitions, or when hardware-related tasks run, leaving users with an unhelpful error code like CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED, IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, or KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR. Below, well walk through what causes these crashes and how to fix them safely.

Why Does acpi.sys Cause BSODs?

The acpi.sys driver is part of the Windows kernel and handles low-level hardware interactions. Common reasons for BSODs include:

  • Driver corruption or conflicts: A damaged, outdated, or incompatible version of the ACPI driver can trigger crashes.
  • Hardware issues
    • Faulty motherboard firmware (BIOS/UEFI).
    • Loose or failing RAM modules.
    • Overclocked CPU or GPU settings.
  • Windows updates or driver updates: A recent update may introduce instability, especially if its not fully tested for your hardware.
  • Malware or system file corruption: Viruses or corrupted system files can disrupt the ACPI drivers operation.
  • Incompatible third-party software: Some apps (e.g., overclocking tools, virtualization software) interfere with hardware power management.

How to Fix acpi.sys BSOD Crashes

Method 1: Run System File Checker and DISM

Corrupted system files are a leading cause of acpi.sys-related crashes. 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 by UAC, click **Yes** to grant permission.
  • Run System File Checker (SFC): This scans and repairs protected system files. 
    sfc /scannow

    Wait for the scan to completeit may take several minutes. Restart your PC afterward.

  • Run DISM to repair Windows image: If SFC doesnt resolve the issue, use: 
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

    This may take longer (1530 minutes). Restart your PC again.

  • Check for improvements: After both commands, test if the BSOD persists during normal use.

Method 2: Update or Roll Back ACPI Driver

An outdated or buggy driver version can trigger crashes. Heres how to update it:

  • Open Device Manager:
    • Press Win + X, then select **Device Manager**.
    • Expand **System devices** or **Processors**, right-click **ACPI Uniprocessor Driver (Microsoft Corporation)**, and choose **Properties**. If you dont see it, expand **Non-Plug and Play Drivers** instead.
  • Check driver version: Note the current version under the **Driver** tab. If its outdated, proceed to update.
  • Update via Windows Update:
    • Go to **Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update**.
    • Click **Check for updates**. If an ACPI-related driver is listed, install it and restart.
  • Manually roll back the driver (if recent update caused the issue):
    • In Device Manager, right-click the ACPI driver > **Properties** > **Driver** tab > **Roll Back Driver**.
    • If the option is grayed out, note the version and manually reinstall an older version from your motherboard manufacturers website.

Method 3: Check for BIOS/UEFI Updates

A buggy or outdated BIOS can cause acpi.sys instability. Update it if you havent in the last year:

  • Identify your motherboard model: Open **Task Manager > Performance** tab, note the manufacturer (e.g., ASUS, Gigabyte).
  • Download the latest BIOS/UEFI from the manufacturers support page.
  • Flash the update carefully:
    • Follow the manufacturers instructions (usually involves creating a bootable USB and entering BIOS setup during startup).
    • Do this with cautionincorrect flashing can brick your motherboard.

Method 4: Test for Hardware Issues

Loose RAM or overheating can trigger acpi.sys-related crashes. Run these tests:

  • Check for overheating:
    • Use a free tool like HWMonitor to monitor CPU/GPU temperatures during stress tests (e.g., Prime95 or FurMark).
    • Clean dust from fans and reapply thermal paste if overheating is detected.
  • Test RAM for errors: 
    mdsched.exe

    Run this tool to check for memory corruption. Follow on-screen instructions and note any errors reported.

  • Reseat RAM modules: Power off, open your PC, and firmly reinsert RAM sticks into their slots.

Method 5: Disable Fast Startup (Temporary Workaround)

Fast Startup can sometimes conflict with ACPI. To disable it:

  • Open Power Options: Search for **Power Options** in the Start menu and open it.
  • Click “Choose what the power buttons do”
  • Uncheck “Turn on fast startup (recommended)”
  • Save changes and restart. Test if BSODs persist.

Method 6: Check for Malware or System File Corruption

Malware can corrupt system files, including drivers. Run these scans:

  • Use Windows Defender: Open **Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Quick scan**. Restart afterward.
  • Run CHKDSK for disk errors: 
    chkdsk /f /r

    Press **Y** to confirm, then restart your PC. This may take time but fixes filesystem corruption.

FAQ: Common Questions About acpi.sys BSODs

Q: Will updating Windows fix this?

A: Yes, but only if the issue stems from a bug in a recent update. Use **Settings > Update & Security** to check for updates, but prioritize driver-specific fixes first.

Q: Can I safely remove or replace acpi.sys?

A: Nothis is a core system file. Modifying it manually can break Windows. Always use built-in tools (e.g., SFC) or manufacturer-provided updates.

Q: Why does this happen only when waking from sleep?

A: Sleep/wake cycles rely heavily on ACPI. If the driver fails to resume hardware properly, it triggers a BSOD. Test by disabling sleep in **Power Options** to see if crashes stop.

Q: Ive tried everythingwhats next?

A: If no method works, your motherboard may have a hardware defect. Contact the manufacturer for RMA support or test the system with minimal components (e.g., one RAM stick, no overclocking).

Final Notes

Most acpi.sys BSODs resolve with driver updates, BIOS fixes, or system file repairs. Start with **SFC and DISM**, then progress to hardware checks if needed. If crashes persist after trying all steps, consider a clean Windows installation as a last resort. Always back up your data before making major changes.

For further help, visit Microsoft Support or your motherboards official forums with the exact BSOD error code (e.g., CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED 0x00000133). Stay patientsystem stability often improves after a few troubleshooting steps!

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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

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