Fixing CANCEL STATE IN COMPLETED IRP (0X00000048) Stop Code on Windows 10 & 11 – Step by Step

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Fixing CANCEL STATE IN COMPLETED IRP (0X00000048) Stop Code on Windows 10 & 11 Step by Step

The CANCEL STATE IN COMPLETED IRP (0X00000048) stop code, also known as a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), is an error that can suddenly appear on Windows 10 or Windows 11 systems. This issue typically occurs when the system encounters a problem with how it processes input/output requests (IRPs) from hardware devices, often related to drivers or storage controllers. If you’re experiencing this error, your screen may freeze before displaying the BSOD with the error message and then restart automatically. Below are detailed steps to diagnose and resolve this issue.

What Causes the CANCEL STATE IN COMPLETED IRP (0X00000048) Error?

The 0x00000048 error can be triggered by several factors, including:

  • Corrupt system files or drivers: Damaged or outdated drivers, especially those related to storage controllers (like SATA/RAID drivers), can cause this error.
  • Faulty hardware
    • Problematic RAM modules or failing hard drives (HDD/SSD).
    • Loose or faulty connections between the motherboard and storage devices.
  • Incompatible or outdated Windows updates: A recent update may introduce compatibility issues with your hardware.
  • Malware or virus infections: Some malware can corrupt system files, leading to BSOD errors.
  • Overheating or power supply issues: Insufficient cooling or unstable power delivery can cause instability in the system.

Step-by-Step Fixes for CANCEL STATE IN COMPLETED IRP (0X00000048)

Method 1: Run System File Checker and DISM

Corrupt system files are a common cause of BSOD errors. Use the built-in tools sfc /scannow (System File Checker) and DISM to repair them.

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
    • Press Win + X, then select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  • Run SFC Scan: In the command prompt, type the following and press Enter: 
    sfc /scannow

    Wait for the scan to complete. If issues are found, they will be repaired automatically.

  • Run DISM: After SFC completes, run: 
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

    This may take several minutes. Restart your PC afterward.

Method 2: Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers, especially for storage controllers (e.g., Intel Rapid Storage Technology, NVMe drivers), can trigger this error.

  • Open Device Manager:
    • Press Win + X, then select Device Manager.
  • Check for Problematic Drivers:
    • Expand categories like Disk drives, Storage controllers, or Universal Serial Bus controllers (USB).
    • Look for devices with a yellow exclamation mark (indicating issues).
  • Update Drivers:
    • Right-click the problematic device and select Update driver, then choose Search automatically for drivers.
    • If no updates are found, visit the manufacturer’s website (e.g., Intel, AMD, or your motherboard/laptop brand) to download the latest drivers.
  • Reinstall Drivers:
    • Right-click the device and select Uninstall device, then check Delete the driver software for this device.
    • Restart your PC to reinstall the driver automatically.

Method 3: Check for Hard Drive Errors with CHKDSK

If the error is related to a failing hard drive or SSD, run CHKDSK to check for file system errors.

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator: As described in Method 1.
  • Run CHKDSK: Type the following command and press Enter: 
    chkdsk C: /f /r

    Replace C: with your system drive letter if needed. This may require a restart to scan during boot.

  • Review Results: After the scan, check for any errors reported in the output. If issues are found, follow the on-screen instructions to fix them.

Method 4: Test and Replace Faulty RAM or Storage

If the error persists, faulty RAM or a failing storage device (HDD/SSD) may be the culprit. Test your hardware as follows:

Method 5: Roll Back Windows Updates or Perform a Clean Install

If the error started after a Windows update, it may be caused by an incompatible driver or system file.

  • Uninstall Recent Updates:
    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history.
    • Click Uninstall updates and remove the most recent ones.
  • Perform a Clean Install (if needed):
    • Back up your data, then create a Windows 10/11 installation media using the Media Creation Tool.
    • Boot from the USB and select Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Reset this PC. Choose Remove everything (not recommended unless necessary) or Keep my files for a lighter reset.

Method 6: Check for Overheating and Power Issues

Overheating or unstable power can cause system instability. Ensure your PC is well-ventilated and connected to a stable power source.

  • Clean Dust from Fans and Vents: Use compressed air to remove dust buildup.
  • Check Power Supply Unit (PSU): If using a desktop, ensure the PSU is working properly. For laptops, try using a different power adapter if possible.
  • Monitor Temperatures: Use tools like HWMonitor to check CPU/GPU temperatures during stress tests (e.g., using OCCT).

FAQ: Common Questions About CANCEL STATE IN COMPLETED IRP (0X00000048)

Q: Will this error damage my hard drive?

Not necessarily. The BSOD itself doesnt physically harm your hardware, but if its caused by a failing drive, you should back up data immediately to prevent further corruption.

Q: How often does the 0x00000048 error occur?

The frequency varies. It may happen randomly or after specific actions (e.g., heavy file operations, game launches). If it occurs frequently, follow the troubleshooting steps above to identify the root cause.

Q: Can I prevent this error in the future?

Yes! Regularly update drivers, scan for malware, and monitor hardware health. Avoid abrupt shutdowns (e.g., force restarts) and ensure your system is free from dust and overheating.

Q: Is this error related to my SSD or HDD?

It can be, especially if the drive is failing or has bad sectors. Run CHKDSK (as in Method 3) or manufacturer diagnostics to check for issues.

Q: Should I replace my RAM if this error occurs?

Only if memory tests (like Windows Memory Diagnostic) confirm errors. Otherwise, other components (e.g., storage drivers) may be the issue.

Final Notes

The CANCEL STATE IN COMPLETED IRP (0X00000048) error can be frustrating, but systematic troubleshooting usually resolves it. Start with sfc /scannow, driver updates, and hardware checks. If the issue persists, deeper steps like clean installs or hardware replacement may be necessary. If youre unsure about any step, seek help from a professional technician to avoid further risks.

For more Windows troubleshooting guides, explore our Windows Help Center.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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

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