0x00000005 INVALID_PROCESS_ATTACH_ATTEMPT Blue Screen Fix Guide (Windows 10/11)

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Short Answer

The Windows BSOD stop code 0x00000005, also known as INVALID_PROCESS_ATTACH_ATTEMPT, indicates a critical system error where an application or driver tried to attach to a process in an invalid way. This usually happens when software attempts to load or interact with a system component that is already corrupted or incompatible. The blue screen appears unexpectedly and can cause data loss if not resolved promptly.

Overview

Common Causes

The INVALID_PROCESS_ATTACH_ATTEMPT BSOD can be triggered by several factors, including:

  • Corrupted or missing system files (e.g., kernel files, DLLs).
  • Incompatible or outdated drivers, especially those related to hardware like graphics cards, storage devices, or network adapters.
  • Memory issues, such as faulty RAM modules or incorrect BIOS settings.
  • Antivirus or security software interfering with system processes.
  • Malware or virus infections that corrupt critical system components.

Fix Methods

Here are the most effective steps to resolve the INVALID_PROCESS_ATTACH_ATTEMPT BSOD on Windows 10/11:

Method 1: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files are a frequent cause of this error. Use the built-in tools to scan and repair them.

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator by pressing Windows + X and selecting “Command Prompt” or “Terminal (Admin).”
  2. Run the following command to check for system file corruption: 
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. If errors are found, Windows will attempt to repair them automatically.
    4. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  4. Restart your PC after both commands finish.

Method 2: Update or Reinstall Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause this BSOD. Focus on graphics, storage, and network drivers first.

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  1. Press Windows + X and select “Device Manager.”
  2. Expand categories like “Display adapters,” “Storage controllers,” and “Network adapters.”
  3. Right-click each driver and choose “Update driver” or “Uninstall device.”
  4. Restart your PC to reinstall drivers automatically.
  5. If the issue persists, use manufacturer-provided tools (e.g., NVIDIA GeForce Experience) to update drivers manually.

Method 3: Check for Malware or Virus Infections

Malicious software can corrupt system files and trigger this error. Run a full scan with your antivirus or Windows Defender.

  1. Open Windows Security by clicking the shield icon in the taskbar or searching in the Start menu.
  2. Go to “Virus & threat protection” and click “Quick Scan.”
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. If threats are detected, follow the recommended actions to remove them.
  4. For a deeper scan, use Windows Defender Offline:

Method 4: Test and Replace RAM Modules

Faulty RAM can cause memory-related BSODs. Use Windows Memory Diagnostic to check for issues.

  1. Press Windows + R, type “mdsched,” and press Enter.
  2. Select “Restart now and check for problems” or schedule a scan later.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the memory test.
  4. If errors are found, replace the faulty RAM module(s).
  5. For manual testing, use Command Prompt with: 
    mddiag

Method 5: Disable Antivirus or Security Software Temporarily

Some security programs aggressively monitor system processes, leading to conflicts. Try disabling them temporarily.

  1. Open your antivirus software (e.g., Windows Defender, McAfee, Norton).
  2. Look for options like “Disable real-time protection” or “Pause all scans.”
  3. Restart your PC and check if the BSOD reappears.
  4. If the issue is resolved, re-enable the antivirus with updated settings.
  5. Consider adding exceptions for critical system files in your antivirus configuration.

Method 6: Check Disk Health Using CHKDSK

Corrupted disk sectors can trigger this error. Run CHKDSK to verify and repair disk issues.

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (Windows + X).
  2. Run the following command: 
    chkdsk /f /r C:
  3. Press Enter. If prompted, type “Y” to confirm and restart your PC.
  4. Wait for CHKDSK to complete its scan during the next boot.

Method 7: Perform a Clean Boot to Identify Software Conflicts

A clean boot starts Windows with minimal drivers and services, helping isolate software conflicts.

  1. Press Windows + R, type “msconfig,” and press Enter.
  2. Go to the “Services” tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services,” then click “Disable all.”
  3. Switch to the “Startup” tab, click “Open Task Manager.”
  4. In Task Manager, disable all startup items by right-clicking and selecting “Disable.”
  5. Restart your PC in clean boot mode.

Method 8: Use System Restore to Revert to a Stable State

If the error started after recent system changes (e.g., driver updates, software installations), restore your PC to an earlier point.

  1. Press Windows + S, type “Create a restore point,” and press Enter.
  2. Click “System Restore” and follow the prompts to select a restore point from before the issue began.
  3. Confirm the restoration process. Your PC will restart with the previous system configuration.

Method 9: Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve stability. Ensure your system is up to date.

  1. Press Windows + I, go to “Update & Security.”
  2. Click “Check for updates” and install any pending updates.
  3. Restart your PC after the update completes.

Method 10: Reinstall or Repair Windows

If all else fails, a clean reinstall of Windows can resolve persistent system corruption.

  1. Back up important files to an external drive or cloud storage.
  2. Press Windows + R, type “ms-settings:recovery,” and press Enter.
  3. Under “Advanced startup,” click “Restart now.”

    Last Updated: December 07, 2025
    Tested on: Windows 10 (22H2) & Windows 11 (23H2)

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