How to Fix cdrom.sys BSOD Error on Windows 10 & 11

The cdrom.sys

file is a critical system component in Windows responsible for managing interactions between your operating system and CD/DVD drives. When this file encounters errors or corruption, it can trigger the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), often accompanied by error codes like CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED, IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, or SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION. This article will guide you through identifying, diagnosing, and resolving the cdrom.sys BSOD issue on Windows 10 and 11.

What is cdrom.sys?

The cdrom.sys file is part of the Windows kernel and acts as a driver for CD/DVD drives. It handles tasks such as reading data from optical discs, managing drive letters, and ensuring smooth communication between your hardware and the operating system. When this file becomes corrupted or conflicts with other drivers, it can lead to system instability, including BSOD errors.

Common Causes of cdrom.sys BSOD

The following factors often trigger cdrom.sys-related BSODs:

Corrupted or outdated drivers: Outdated or incompatible CD/DVD drive drivers can cause conflicts.
Faulty hardware: Issues with the CD/DVD drive itself, such as physical damage or loose connections.
Malware or virus infections: Malicious software may corrupt system files, including cdrom.sys.
Windows updates or driver conflicts: Recent updates or third-party drivers (e.g., from printer or multimedia software) may interfere with the CD/DVD functionality.
Corrupted system files: System file corruption due to improper shutdowns, disk errors, or failed updates.

Step-by-Step Fixes for cdrom.sys BSOD

1. Run Windows System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

The first step is to repair corrupted system files using built-in tools:

Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
- Press Win + X, then select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
Run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
```
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
```
```
sfc /scannow
```
Restart your PC and check if the issue persists.

2. Update or Reinstall CD/DVD Drivers

Outdated or faulty drivers are a common cause of BSODs:

Open Device Manager:
- Press Win + X, then select Device Manager.
Expand the DVD/CD-ROM drives section.
Right-click your CD/DVD drive, then select Update driver. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
If updating doesnt work, right-click the drive and select Uninstall device, then restart your PC. Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.

3. Check for Disk Errors with CHKDSK

Corrupted data on your hard drive can trigger BSODs:

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Run the following command (replace C with your system drive if needed):
```
chkdsk C: /f /r /x
```
Press Y to confirm, then restart your PC.
Wait for the scan to complete and check for errors.

4. Scan for Malware

Malware can corrupt system files, including cdrom.sys. Use Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus to run a full system scan.

5. Disable or Update Third-Party Drivers

Third-party software (e.g., DVD burning tools) may conflict with the default driver:

Open Device Manager.
Expand DVD/CD-ROM drives, right-click your drive, and select Properties.
Go to the Driver tab and note the driver provider (e.g., Microsoft).
If a third-party driver is listed, uninstall it and restart your PC.

6. Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft often releases patches for known issues:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Click Check for updates and install any pending updates.

7. Test with a Different CD/DVD Drive (If Applicable)

If you have multiple drives, test the BSOD on another drive to isolate hardware issues.

FAQs About cdrom.sys BSOD

Q: Will reinstalling Windows fix this?

A: Yes, but try the steps above first. A clean install should resolve persistent issues if no other fixes work.

Q: Can I safely remove cdrom.sys?

A: No, cdrom.sys is a protected system file. Modifying or deleting it can break your PC. Use the steps above to repair it instead.

Q: Why does this happen after a Windows update?

A: Updates may introduce driver conflicts or corrupt system files. Rolling back updates or using System Restore (if available) can help.

Q: How do I check the BSOD error code?

A: Note the error message on the screen or use Win + R, type eventvwr.msc, and review Windows Logs > System for details.

Q: Is this a hardware issue?

A: Possibly. If the drive is faulty, try cleaning it or testing with another PC. If the BSOD persists on all drives, focus on driver/file fixes first.

Final Notes

The cdrom.sys BSOD is usually fixable with system file repairs, driver updates, and malware scans. Start with the simplest steps (SFC/DISM) before proceeding to more advanced solutions. If the issue persists after trying all methods, consider contacting Microsoft Support or checking for hardware failures.

Always back up important data before making changes to your system.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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