INVALID AFFINITY SET (0X00000003) Blue Screen Fix Guide (Windows 10/11)

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How to Fix the INVALID AFFINITY SET (0X00000003) Blue Screen Error in Windows 10/11

The INVALID AFFINITY SET (0x00000003) blue screen error, also known as a Stop Error or BSOD (Blue Screen of Death), can suddenly appear on your Windows 10 or 11 PC, causing it to crash and restart. This error typically occurs when the operating system detects an issue with CPU affinity settings, which determine how processes are assigned to CPU cores. While frustrating, this problem is often fixable with the right troubleshooting steps. Below, well explain what causes this error and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

What Causes the INVALID AFFINITY SET (0x00000003) Error?

The INVALID AFFINITY SET error usually happens due to one or more of the following reasons:

  • Corrupted system files or registry entries Damaged Windows components can trigger this error.
  • Faulty or outdated drivers A problematic driver, especially those related to hardware (e.g., GPU, chipset, or storage), may conflict with CPU affinity settings.
  • Hardware issues Faulty RAM, a failing hard drive, or overheating can lead to this error.
  • Malware or system corruption Infections or improper shutdowns can corrupt critical system files.
  • Overclocking or BIOS/UEFI misconfigurations

    If your CPU is overclocked or affinity settings are manually adjusted incorrectly, this error may appear.

How to Fix the INVALID AFFINITY SET (0x00000003) Error

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Method 1: Run System File Checker and DISM

Corrupted system files are a common cause of BSOD errors. Use Windows built-in tools to repair them:

  • Press Win + X and select Terminal (Admin) or open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • 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 error persists.

Method 2: Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers

Outdated or conflicting drivers can trigger this error. Heres how to update them:

  • Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  • Expand categories like Display adapters, System devices, or Chipset drivers (right-click each).
  • Right-click a device with a yellow warning icon, then choose Update driver. Select Search automatically for drivers.
  • If no update is found, note the driver name and search online for the latest version from the manufacturers website (e.g., NVIDIA, Intel, or your motherboard brand).
  • Alternatively, roll back drivers by right-clicking a device in Device Manager Properties Driver Roll Back Driver.

Method 3: Check for Hardware Issues with CHKDSK

If the error is hardware-related (e.g., RAM or storage), run CHKDSK to check for disk errors:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Run: 
    chkdsk C: /f /r

    (Replace C: with your system drive if needed. Press Enter, then type Y to confirm.)

  • Restart your PC and monitor for further errors.

Method 4: Disable Overclocking or Reset BIOS/UEFI Settings

If youve overclocked your CPU or manually adjusted affinity settings:

  • Enter your BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing Del, F2, or F12 during boot).
  • Reset all settings to default or disable overclocking options.
  • Save changes and exit. If the error persists, check if third-party software (e.g., Intel XTU) is forcing overclocking and disable it.

Method 5: Perform a Clean Boot to Isolate the Issue

A clean boot starts Windows with minimal drivers/services, helping identify conflicts:

  • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  • Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
  • Switch to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager Disable all startup items.
  • Restart your PC. If no BSOD occurs, re-enable services/apps one by one to identify the culprit.

Method 6: Check for Malware and Run a Full System Scan

Malware can corrupt system files. Use Windows Defender or trusted antivirus software (e.g., Microsoft Defender) to scan your PC.

FAQ About the INVALID AFFINITY SET Error

  • Is this error hardware or software-related?
    It can be either. Hardware issues (RAM, overheating) often cause frequent crashes, while software corruption or driver conflicts trigger it occasionally.
  • Will a Windows reset fix this permanently?
    A clean install of Windows may resolve deep-seated issues, but ensure you back up data first. Use the Windows reset tool.
  • Can I prevent this error in the future?
    Yes! Regularly update drivers, avoid overclocking unless necessary, and use reliable antivirus software. Monitor system health with tools like Windows Memory Diagnostic.
  • Does this error damage my PC?
    The BSOD itself doesnt harm hardware, but frequent crashes can cause data loss. Always back up important files.

Final Notes

If none of the above methods work, consider testing your RAM with Windows Memory Diagnostic or checking for failing hardware (e.g., overheating). If the issue persists, consult a professional technician. Most users resolve this error by updating drivers or repairing system filesstart with those steps first.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to eliminate the INVALID AFFINITY SET (0x00000003) BSOD and restore stability to your Windows 10/11 PC. If you encounter additional errors or need further help, explore our other guides on driver updates or hardware diagnostics.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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

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