FLOPPY INTERNAL ERROR (0X00000037) Blue Screen Fix Guide (Windows 10/11)

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FLOPPY INTERNAL ERROR (0X00000037) Blue Screen Fix Guide (Windows 10/11)

What is the FLOPPY_INTERNAL_ERROR (0x00000037) BSOD?

The **FLOPPY_INTERNAL_ERROR** blue screen error (BSOD) with stop code **0x00000037** is a rare but frustrating issue that can suddenly appear on Windows 10 or 11 systems. This error typically occurs when your computer encounters a problem related to floppy disk drivers, even if you dont use a floppy drive. The name is misleading because modern PCs no longer come with built-in floppy drives, but the underlying driver or system file corruption can still trigger this stop code.

When this error appears, your screen will flash blue (or black in some cases) and display the error message along with technical details like:

  • **FLOPPY_INTERNAL_ERROR**
  • **0x00000037**
  • A memory address or driver file name

The system will then restart automatically unless you manually choose to see more details. This can happen during normal operation, while gaming, or after installing updates.

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Common Causes of the FLOPPY_INTERNAL_ERROR (0x00000037)

While floppy drives are obsolete, several factors can trigger this error:

  • **Corrupted system files** Missing or damaged Windows components related to storage drivers.
  • **Outdated or incompatible drivers** Particularly those related to disk controllers, USB ports, or legacy hardware emulation.
  • **Hardware issues** Faulty SATA/IDE controllers, failing hard drives, or loose connections (even if no floppy drive is present).
  • **Malware or registry corruption** Some viruses or incorrect registry entries can mimic this error.
  • **Recent Windows updates** A buggy update may introduce instability in low-level storage drivers.
  • **Overheating or overheating CPU/GPU** Extreme heat can cause intermittent hardware glitches that manifest as BSODs.

Even if you dont use a floppy drive, the system may still reference legacy drivers during boot or file operations, leading to this error.

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Step-by-Step Fixes for FLOPPY_INTERNAL_ERROR (0x00000037)

Try these solutions in order. Start with the simplest and move to more advanced steps if needed.

# 1. **Restart Your Computer**

Sometimes a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches that trigger BSODs.

  • Hold down the power button for 510 seconds to force a shutdown, then turn your PC back on.
  • If possible, wait at least 30 seconds between restarts to allow components to cool.

> **Note:** If the error persists after multiple reboots, proceed to the next steps.

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# 2. **Check for Loose Hardware and Overheating**

Loose cables or overheating can cause intermittent hardware errors.

  • Open your PC case (if comfortable doing so) and ensure all internal connections are secure:
  • SATA data cables connected to your hard drive/SSD
  • RAM sticks seated properly in their slots
  • Power supply connections stable
  • Use a **can of compressed air** to clean dust from fans and vents.
  • Monitor CPU and GPU temperatures using tools like **HWMonitor** or **Core Temp**. If overheating is detected, reapply thermal paste if needed.

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# 3. **Run Windows System File Checker (SFC) and DISM**

Corrupted system files can trigger this BSOD. Use built-in tools to repair them:



Open Command Prompt as Administrator:


1. Press Win + X, then select "Terminal (Admin)" or "Command Prompt (Admin)."


2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:


sfc /scannow


DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth


3. Wait for both processes to complete (may take 1030 minutes).


4. Restart your PC.

If SFC reports “Windows Resource Protection could not perform the requested operation,” try running **DISM first**, then retry SFC.

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# 4. **Run CHKDSK to Check for Disk Errors**

A failing or corrupted hard drive can cause this error, even if no physical damage is visible.



1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (as above).


2. Type:


chkdsk C: /f /r


(Replace "C:" with your system drive letter if needed.)


3. Press Enter, then type Y to confirm scheduling the scan for the next reboot.


4. Restart your PC when prompted. The scan runs automatically during boot and may take 1060 minutes depending on disk size.


5. After completion, check Event Viewer (search "Event Viewer" in Start) for any errors under "Windows Logs > Application."

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# 5. **Update or Roll Back Problematic Drivers**

Outdated or buggy driversespecially those related to storage, chipset, or USB controllerscan cause this error.

  • **Update all drivers automatically:**
  • Press Win + X, then select “Device Manager.”
  • Expand categories like:
  • Disk drives
  • Storage controllers
  • Universal Serial Bus controllers (USB)
  • Right-click each device, choose “Update driver,” then “Search automatically for drivers.”
  • **Roll back a recently installed driver:**

If the error started after installing a specific update (e.g., chipset or GPU driver), roll it back:

1. Open Device Manager.

2. Find the device with a yellow exclamation mark or under “Other devices.”

3. Right-click Properties Driver tab Roll Back Driver.

  • **Manually download drivers from manufacturers website** (e.g., Intel, NVIDIA, AMD) if automatic updates dont work.

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# 6. **Disable Legacy Floppy Emulation (If Applicable)**

Since this error stems from floppy-related code, disabling emulation may help:



1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.


2. Type the following command and press Enter to disable the floppy driver:


bcdedit /set {current} nolegacyfloppy 1


3. Restart your PC.

> **Note:** If you later need legacy support (e.g., for old software), re-enable it with:

> `bcdedit /deletevalue {current} nolegacyfloppy`

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# 7. **Check for Malware and Run a Full Scan**

Malware can corrupt system files or interfere with drivers.

  • Use **Windows Defender** (built-in):
  • Open Windows Security Virus & threat protection Quick scan.
  • For deeper scans, use reputable third-party tools like **Malwarebytes** (free version).

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# 8. **Test Your RAM and Hard Drive**

Faulty memory or a failing storage device can cause intermittent BSODs.

  • **Test RAM:**

Use Windows Memory Diagnostic:



1. Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, then press Enter.


2. Select "Restart now and check for problems."


3. Follow on-screen instructions to complete the test (may take 1530 minutes).
  • **Test your hard drive:**

Use CrystalDiskInfo (free tool) to check SMART status:

  • Download from [https://crystalmark.info/en/software/crystaldiskinfo/](https://crystalmark.info/en/software/crystaldiskinfo/)
  • Open the tool and look for “Health Status” or “SMART Status.” If it shows “Caution” or “Bad,” back up data immediately and replace the drive.

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# 9. **Perform a Clean Boot**

Third-party software (e.g., antivirus, overclocking tools) can interfere with system stability.



1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, then press Enter.


2. Go to the "Services" tab  Check "Hide all Microsoft services"  Click "Disable all."


3. Go to the "Startup" tab  Open Task Manager  Disable all startup items.


4. Restart your PC and test if the error persists.


5. If stable, re-enable services/startup items one by one (in small groups) to identify the culprit.

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# 10. **Reinstall or Reconfigure Problematic Hardware**

If the issue persists, a failing component may be at fault:

  • **Replace your hard drive** if SMART errors are detected.
  • **Reseat RAM sticks** (remove and reinsert them).
  • **Update BIOS/UEFI** to the latest version from your motherboard manufacturers website.

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# 11. **Reset Windows or Reinstall (Last Resort)**

If all else fails, reset Windows or perform a clean install:



1. Back up important files.


2. Go to Settings  Update & Security  Recovery  Reset this PC  Remove everything (keep only personal files if needed).


3. Follow on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows.

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FAQ: Common Questions About FLOPPY_INTERNAL_ERROR

# **Q: I dont have a floppy drivewhy am I getting this error?**

A: Modern Windows systems still reference legacy floppy drivers during boot or file operations. The error is a misnomer; its more about corrupted system files or hardware issues that trigger the same stop code.

# **Q: Will this damage my hard drive?**

A: No, but if CHKDSK finds errors, they should be addressed immediately to prevent data loss. Always back up important files before running disk checks.

# **Q: Ive tried everythingwhat now?**

A: If the error persists after all troubleshooting, its likely a hardware issue (e.g., failing SSD/HDD or RAM). Consider professional diagnostics or replacing components like your storage drive.

# **Q: Can third-party software cause this?**

A: Yes. Overclocking tools, RAID controllers, or outdated drivers can trigger BSODs. Try booting into **Safe Mode** to see if the error appearsif not, a driver is likely the culprit.

# **Q: How do I check Event Viewer for clues?**

A: Open **Event Viewer** (search in Start), go to:

  • **Windows Logs System**

Look for errors with **”Error”** severity around the time of the BSOD. Note any driver names or codes listed.

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Final Notes

The FLOPPY_INTERNAL_ERROR is rare but can be resolved systematically. Start with file repairs (SFC/DISM), check hardware, and update drivers before considering deeper fixes. If the issue persists after all steps, consult a technician to rule out hardware failure.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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

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