Solved: MISMATCHED HAL (0X00000079) BSOD Crash on Windows 10/11

The MISMATCHED_HAL (0x00000079) Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is a critical error that can suddenly freeze your Windows 10 or 11 system, displaying a stop code and restarting automatically. This issue typically occurs when theres an incompatibility between the hardware abstraction layer (HAL) and your systems hardware configuration, often related to CPU, memory, or driver conflicts. While frustrating, this error is usually fixable with the right troubleshooting steps.

Below, well explain what causes the MISMATCHED_HAL BSOD, how to identify it, and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it without needing advanced technical skills.

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What Causes the MISMATCHED HAL (0x00000079) Error?

The error occurs when Windows detects a mismatch between your systems hardware configuration and the HAL, which acts as a bridge between software and hardware. Common causes include:

Corrupted or outdated device drivers (especially chipset, storage, or network drivers).
Faulty or incompatible RAM modules.
Overclocking settings that conflict with system stability.
Corrupted system files due to improper shutdowns or malware.
Hardware issues, such as a failing hard drive or overheating CPU/GPU.
Incompatible BIOS/UEFI settings (e.g., incorrect memory timings).

The BSOD may appear during startup, random application launches, or while using intensive programs like games or video editing software. If you see the error screen with the text MISMATCHED_HAL and your PC restarts in a loop, follow these fixes to resolve it.

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How to Fix MISMATCHED HAL (0x00000079) BSOD

### Method 1: Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers are a leading cause of this error. Heres how to update them:

Open Device Manager: Press Win + X, then select Device Manager.
Check for errors: Look under System devices, Disk drives, or Display adapters for devices with a yellow warning icon (e.g., Unknown device). Right-click it and select Update driver.
Use Windows Update: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, then click Check for updates. Install any pending driver or optional updates.
Reinstall drivers manually: If the issue persists, download the latest drivers from the manufacturers website (e.g., Intel, NVIDIA, AMD) and install them.

If youre unsure which driver is causing the issue, use a tool like BlueScreenView to analyze your BSOD logs for clues.

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### Method 2: 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: Press Win + X, then select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
Run SFC scan: Copy and paste the following, then press Enter:
```
sfc /scannow
```
Wait for completion: The scan may take 1030 minutes. Restart your PC afterward.
Run DISM (if SFC fails): In the same Command Prompt, run:
```
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
```
Restart your PC: Reboot to see if the issue is resolved.

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### Method 3: Check for Faulty RAM or Hardware Issues
Faulty RAM can cause this error, especially with mismatched modules (e.g., mixing DDR4 and DDR5). Test your memory:

Run Windows Memory Diagnostic: Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, then press Enter. Select Restart now and check for problems.
Check for errors: If errors are found, note the affected module(s) and test them one by one (if you have multiple sticks).
Reseat RAM: Power off your PC, open the case, and firmly reinsert the RAM sticks. Ensure theyre fully seated in their slots.
Test with one stick: Use only one RAM module to rule out conflicts. If the error disappears, the other stick may be faulty.

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### Method 4: Reset BIOS/UEFI Settings
Incorrect BIOS settings (e.g., overclocking or XMP profiles) can trigger this error:

Enter BIOS: Restart your PC and press the BIOS key (usually Del, F2, or Esc) during boot.
Reset to defaults: Look for an option like Load Optimized Defaults or Load Setup Defaults. Save and exit.
Disable overclocking: If youve manually set CPU/GPU speeds, reset them to default (e.g., disable XMP/DOCP in the RAM settings).

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### Method 5: Check for Hard Drive Errors
A failing hard drive can cause this BSOD. Run CHKDSK to scan for issues:

Open Command Prompt (Admin): As above, launch it with admin rights.
Run CHKDSK: Type the following and press Enter:
```
chkdsk C: /f /r
```
Confirm repair: If prompted, type Y to confirm. The scan may take a while.
Restart your PC: Reboot after the process completes.

—

### Method 6: Perform a Clean Boot
Third-party software or startup programs can interfere with system stability:

Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, go to the Startup tab, and disable all non-Microsoft apps.
Use MSConfig: Type msconfig in the search bar, open it, go to the Boot tab, and check Safe boot (Minimal). Restart.
Test for crashes: If the BSOD doesnt appear, a startup program is likely the culprit. Re-enable apps one by one to identify the offender.

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### Method 7: Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If all else fails, your system files may be too corrupted for repair. Back up your data and perform a clean install:

Create a backup: Copy important files to an external drive.
Download Windows Media Creation Tool: Get it from Microsofts website: Microsofts Download Page.
Boot from USB: Create a bootable USB, then install Windows fresh. Choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) to keep files if needed.

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FAQ About MISMATCHED HAL BSOD

Q: Will this error damage my hardware?
A: No, the BSOD itself doesnt harm your hardware. However, frequent crashes can lead to data loss or wear on components if left unchecked.

Q: Can I prevent this error in the future?
A: Yes! Regularly update drivers, avoid mixing RAM modules, and use reliable antivirus software. Monitor system temperatures with tools like HWMonitor.

Q: Why does it happen only after a Windows update?
A: Updates can introduce driver or firmware changes that conflict with your hardware. Rolling back the update (via Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Go back) may help.

Q: Is this related to my CPU being incompatible?
A: Rarely, but if you recently upgraded your CPU without updating BIOS, it could cause a mismatch. Check your motherboards manual for compatibility.

Q: Should I replace my RAM if the error persists?
A: Only if memory tests (like MemTest86) confirm faults. Otherwise, try reseating or testing one stick at a time.

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Final Notes

The MISMATCHED_HAL BSOD is usually fixable with patience and systematic troubleshooting. Start with driver updates and system file repairs before diving into hardware checks. If the issue persists after trying these steps, consult a professional technician to rule out hardware failure (e.g., motherboard or CPU issues).

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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