How to Fix MAILSLOT FILE SYSTEM (0X00000052) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

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How to Fix MAILSLOT FILE SYSTEM (0X00000052) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

The MAILSLOT_FILE_SYSTEM (0x00000052) Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is a critical error that can suddenly crash your Windows system, often without warning. This error typically occurs when the operating system fails to communicate with a mail slota low-level communication channel used by Windows for inter-process communication (IPC). If you’re experiencing this issue, dont worry; its usually fixable with the right steps. Below, well explain what causes this BSOD and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

What Causes the MAILSLOT_FILE_SYSTEM (0x00000052) Error?

The MAILSLOT_FILE_SYSTEM error can be triggered by several factors, including:

  • Corrupted system files: Damaged or missing critical Windows components.
  • Faulty hardware drivers, especially those related to storage (e.g., disk controllers, SSDs/HDDs).
  • Outdated or incompatible drivers, particularly for network adapters, chipset, or storage devices.
  • Malware or virus infections that interfere with system processes.
  • Hardware issues, such as failing RAM, overheating, or faulty cables (especially SATA/USB connections).
  • Windows updates or driver conflicts after installing new software or updates.

The error often appears during normal operation, but it may also occur when:

  • Opening certain applications (e.g., games, video editors).
  • Accessing external storage devices (USB drives, SSDs, or HDDs).
  • During system startup or shutdown.

How to Fix MAILSLOT_FILE_SYSTEM (0x00000052) BSOD

### **Method 1: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM**
Corrupted system files are a common cause of this error. Use the built-in tools to repair them:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
    • Press Win + X, then select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  • Run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each: 
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    sfc /scannow
  • Wait for the process to complete (this may take 1030 minutes). Restart your PC afterward.

### **Method 2: Check and Repair Disk Errors**
A failing or corrupted disk can trigger this BSOD. Run CHKDSK to scan for issues:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Type the following command (replace C: with your system drive if needed): 
    chkdsk C: /f /r /x
  • Press Y to confirm, then restart your PC when prompted.
  • After rebooting, check for improvements. If the issue persists, proceed to the next method.

### **Method 3: Update or Roll Back Drivers**
Outdated or conflicting drivers are a frequent culprit:

  • Open Device Manager by pressing Win + X and selecting it.
  • Expand categories like:
    • Disk drives
    • Storage controllers
    • Network adapters
    • System devices
  • Right-click each device, select Update driver, then choose Search automatically for drivers.
  • If the issue started after a recent update, right-click the driver and select Properties > Driver > Roll Back Driver (if available).
  • Restart your PC afterward.

### **Method 4: Test for Hardware Issues**
Faulty RAM or storage can cause this error:

  • Test RAM:
    • Use Windows Memory Diagnostic: 
      mdsched.exe
    • Follow the prompts to scan for memory errors.
  • Check storage health (for SSDs/HDDs):
  • If hardware is failing, replace or re-seat cables/connections.

### **Method 5: Perform a Clean Boot**
Software conflicts can trigger this 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 and click Open Task Manager. Disable all startup items.
  • Restart your PC. If no BSOD occurs, re-enable services/startup items one by one to identify the culprit.

### **Method 6: Restore from a System Restore Point**
If the error started after recent changes:

  • Search for Create a restore point in the Start menu and open it.
  • Click System Restore > Next.
  • Choose a restore point from before the issue started, then follow the prompts to restore.
  • Restart your PC afterward.

### **Method 7: Check for Malware**
Malware can corrupt system files. Run a scan with:

  • Windows Defender: Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Quick Scan.
  • For thorough scans, use tools like Malwarebytes (free version).

### **Method 8: Reinstall or Update Windows**
If all else fails, reset or reinstall Windows:

  • Reset this PC:
    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC > Get started.
    • Choose Keep my files (if possible) or Remove everything.
  • Reinstall Windows: Use the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB and reinstall.

FAQ About MAILSLOT_FILE_SYSTEM (0x00000052) BSOD

Q: Is this error hardware or software-related?
A: It can be either. While often caused by corrupted files or drivers, faulty RAM, SSDs/HDDs, or overheating can also trigger it.

Q: Will a factory reset fix it permanently?
A: Yes, but only if the issue is software-related. If hardware (e.g., RAM) is failing, problems may return unless the component is replaced.

Q: Can I prevent this error in the future?
A: Yes! Regularly update drivers, scan for malware, and use tools like sfc /scannow or chkdsk to maintain system health. Avoid abrupt shutdowns during updates.

Q: Why does this happen only with certain apps (e.g., games)?
A: Some applications stress the mail slot mechanism more than others, especially those using intensive I/O operations (e.g., game engines or large file transfers).

Q: Should I replace my SSD/HDD if this error occurs?
A: Only if hardware diagnostics confirm a fault. Test with tools like CrystalDiskInfo to check SMART data for errors.

Final Thoughts

The MAILSLOT_FILE_SYSTEM (0x00000052) BSOD is frustrating but usually resolvable with the steps above. Start with sfc /scannow, driver updates, and hardware checksthese address most cases. If the problem persists, deeper troubleshooting like clean boot or Windows reset may be necessary. Always back up important data before making significant changes to your system.

If youve tried all methods and the issue remains, consult a professional technician, as it could indicate deeper hardware failure (e.g., motherboard or CPU issues). For further help, visit Microsoft Support or community forums like Microsoft Answers.

By systematically working through these solutions, you should be able to stabilize your system and prevent future crashes.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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

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