ATDISK DRIVER INTERNAL (0X00000042) Blue Screen Fix Guide (Windows 10/11)
The ATDISK DRIVER INTERNAL (0x00000042) blue screen error, also known as a Stop Error or BSOD (Blue Screen of Death), is a critical system failure that can occur in Windows 10 and Windows 11. This error typically appears when the Windows operating system encounters a problem related to the ATDISK driver, which is associated with storage drivers or disk controllers. When this happens, your computer may crash unexpectedly, leading to data loss if not properly handled. Below, well explore what causes this error, how to identify it, and most importantly, how to fix it using step-by-step methods.
What Causes the ATDISK DRIVER INTERNAL (0x00000042) Error?
The 0x00000042 error is often triggered by issues related to:
- Faulty or outdated storage drivers: Outdated or corrupted disk controllers, SATA/RAID drivers, or hard drive firmware can lead to instability.
- Hardware conflicts or failing hardware: A failing hard drive, loose connections, or overheating components may cause this error.
- Corrupted system files: System file corruption due to improper shutdowns, malware, or software conflicts can trigger the BSOD.
- Incompatible or buggy third-party drivers: Drivers for printers, graphics cards, or other hardware may conflict with Windows.
- Overheating or power issues: Insufficient cooling or unstable power supply can lead to system instability.
How to Identify the ATDISK DRIVER INTERNAL (0x00000042) Error
If you encounter this error, your screen will display a blue screen with white text that includes:
ATDISK DRIVER INTERNAL
A problem has been detected and Windows has shut down to prevent damage to your computer.
The problem seems to be caused by the following file: atdisk.sys
Additionally, Windows may log this error in the Event Viewer under “Windows Logs > System” with details about the crash. If youre unsure whether this is the exact error, check the memory dump file (if available) for the error code 0x00000042.
Step-by-Step Fixes for ATDISK DRIVER INTERNAL (0x00000042)
Follow these methods in order, starting with the simplest and progressing to more advanced solutions. If an earlier step resolves the issue, you can stop there.
Method 1: Restart Your Computer
The most basic troubleshooting step is to restart your PC. Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve temporary glitches causing the BSOD. Press and hold the power button for 510 seconds, then turn it back on.
Method 2: Update or Reinstall Storage Drivers
The ATDISK driver is often linked to storage controllers (e.g., SATA, RAID, or NVMe drivers). Updating or reinstalling these drivers can resolve the issue:
- Press Win + X, then select Device Manager.
- Expand Disk drives and Storage controllers. Look for devices with a yellow warning icon (indicating outdated drivers).
- Right-click the device, choose Update driver, then select Search automatically for drivers.
- If no updates are found, download the latest driver from the manufacturers website (e.g., Intel, AMD, or your motherboard/laptop brand).
- Alternatively, uninstall the driver by right-clicking it and selecting Uninstall device, then restart your PC to let Windows reinstall it.
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 select Run as administrator).
- Copy and paste the following command, then press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan to complete (this may take 1020 minutes). Restart your PC afterward.
- If SFC doesnt work, run DISM with these commands (one at a time):
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth sfc /scannow
Method 4: Check for Hard Drive Errors
A failing or corrupted hard drive can cause this error. Run CHKDSK to check and repair disk issues:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type the following command (replace
C:with your drive letter if needed) and press Enter:chkdsk C: /f /r /x
- If prompted, type Y to confirm. This may require a reboot.
- After the scan completes, check for any errors reported in the log (located at
C:\Windows\Logs\CBS\CBS.log).
Method 5: Test Your Hardware
If the error persists, hardware issues may be the cause. Perform these checks:
- Check connections: Ensure your hard drive or SSD is securely connected (especially if its an external drive). Reconnect cables if needed.
- Test for overheating: Use software like HWiNFO to monitor temperatures. Clean dust from fans and ensure proper airflow.
- Run hardware diagnostics: Use manufacturer tools (e.g., HP Hardware Diagnostics, Dell Diagnostics) to test your hard drive or RAM.
- Try a different power outlet or cable: If using an external SSD, test it on another USB port or system.
Method 6: Disable Overclocking or XMP/RAM Settings
If youve overclocked your CPU, GPU, or RAM, reset BIOS settings to defaults:
- Restart your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F2, F12, DEL, or ESC during boot).
- Look for options like Load Optimized Defaults or Reset to Defaults. Select it and save changes.
- Disable XMP (for RAM) if enabled. Exit BIOS and restart.
Method 7: Perform a Clean Boot
A conflicting third-party service or startup program may trigger the error. Boot Windows in minimal mode to isolate the issue:
- Press Win + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab, click Open Task Manager, and disable all startup items.
- Restart your PC. If the error doesnt occur, re-enable services/startup items one by one to identify the culprit.
Method 8: Update Windows and Drivers
Ensure your system is up to date:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, then click Check for updates.
- Install all optional updates, especially those related to storage or chipset drivers.
- Update GPU drivers via NVIDIA (for NVIDIA) or AMD Adrenalin (for AMD).
Method 9: Check for Windows Updates (Optional)
If the error started after a recent update, roll back problematic updates:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > View update history.
- Click Uninstall updates, then remove the most recent ones (especially those related to storage or drivers).
Method 10: Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If all else fails, a clean install of Windows may be necessary. Back up your data first:
- Create a backup using File History or an external drive.
- Download the Windows 10/11 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft.
- Boot from a USB drive and choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) during setup. Select your system drive and proceed with the installation.
FAQ About ATDISK DRIVER INTERNAL (0x00000042)
Q: Is this error related to my hard drive failing?
A: It can be. If your hard drive is old or overheating, this error may indicate physical failure. Run chkdsk (as shown above) and monitor for bad sectors. Consider replacing the drive if errors persist.
Q: Will updating drivers always fix this?
A: Not always, but its a common cause. If updating doesnt work, try reinstalling or rolling back to an older driver version (via Device Manager).
Q: Can I prevent future BSODs like this?
A: Yes! Keep your system updated, avoid abrupt shutdowns, and monitor hardware health. Use tools like Windows Security to scan for malware and maintain proper cooling.
Q: Is this error covered under warranty?
A: If the issue is hardware-related (e.g., a failing SSD), check your devices warranty. For software-related causes, no warranty claim applies unless its a known bug in Windows updates.
Q: What if I dont have a memory dump file?
A: If the BSOD doesnt save a dump file, enable them by going to System Properties > Advanced system settings > Startup and Recovery > Settings > Write debugging information (Complete memory dump).
Final Thoughts
The ATDISK DRIVER INTERNAL (0x00000042) error is frustrating but often fixable with systematic troubleshooting. Start with driver updates, system file repairs, and hardware checks before resorting to a clean install. If the issue persists, consult manufacturer support or a professional technician for further diagnosis.
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Tested on: Windows 10 (22H2) & Windows 11 (23H2)