How to Fix SERIAL DRIVER INTERNAL (0X00000038) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

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How to Fix SERIAL DRIVER INTERNAL (0X00000038) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

The SERIAL DRIVER INTERNAL (0X00000038) Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is a frustrating error that can suddenly appear while using your Windows 10 or 11 PC, often causing unexpected system crashes. This error typically occurs due to issues with serial port drivers, hardware conflicts, or corrupted system files. While it may seem technical, you dont need advanced knowledge to resolve itthis guide will walk you through the most effective solutions step by step.

What Causes the SERIAL DRIVER INTERNAL (0X00000038) BSOD?

The 0x00000038 error is usually triggered by one or more of the following:

  • Corrupted or outdated serial port drivers Outdated or poorly installed drivers for COM ports, USB-to-serial adapters, or other serial communication devices can lead to instability.
  • Faulty hardware A malfunctioning serial device (e.g., a USB-to-serial converter, modem, or legacy hardware) may conflict with the system.
  • Corrupted system files System file corruption from improper shutdowns, malware, or failed updates can trigger this error.
  • Driver conflicts

    Conflicts between multiple drivers (e.g., serial port drivers and other hardware drivers) can cause the BSOD.

  • Windows update issues A recent Windows update may have introduced compatibility problems with your hardware.

How to Fix SERIAL DRIVER INTERNAL (0X00000038) BSOD

### **Method 1: Update or Reinstall Serial Port Drivers**

Outdated or corrupted drivers are a common cause of this error. Updating or reinstalling them can resolve the issue.

  • Open Device Manager: Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  • Locate serial port devices: Expand Ports (COM & LPT) to see entries like “Standard Serial Over USB” or your specific device.
  • Right-click the driver and update it:
    • Select Update driver > Search automatically for drivers.
    • If Windows doesnt find updates, choose Browse this computer for driver software and manually select a backup driver (if available).
  • Reinstall the driver: Right-click the same device > Uninstall device. Check Delete the driver software for this device, then restart your PC. Windows will reinstall it automatically.

### **Method 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM**

Corrupted system files can trigger BSODs. 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: Paste the following and press Enter: 
    sfc /scannow

    Wait for the process to complete (may take several minutes). Restart if prompted.

  • Run DISM repair: In the same Command Prompt, paste and run: 
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

    This may take longer (1030 minutes). Restart your PC afterward.

### **Method 3: Check for Hardware Issues**

If the error persists, a faulty serial device could be the culprit. Try these steps:

  • Unplug all non-essential USB/serial devices (e.g., adapters, modems) and restart your PC.
  • Test with minimal hardware: Disconnect all external devices except the keyboard/mouse. If the BSOD doesnt appear, reconnect devices one by one to identify the problematic hardware.
  • Check for loose connections: Ensure USB-to-serial adapters or cables are securely connected and undamaged.

### **Method 4: Roll Back or Disable Problematic Drivers**

If a recent driver update caused the issue, roll it back or disable it temporarily:

  • Open Device Manager as before, locate the serial port driver, right-click > Properties.
  • Go to the Driver tab and click Roll Back Driver (if available). If not, note the driver version.
  • Disable the driver: In Device Manager, right-click the device > Disable device. Restart your PC to see if the BSOD stops. Re-enable it later if needed.

### **Method 5: Run CHKDSK for Disk Errors**

Corrupted disk sectors can trigger BSODs. Use CHKDSK to scan and repair them:

  • Open Command Prompt (Admin) and run: 
    chkdsk C: /f /r

    Replace C: with your system drive if needed.

  • Press Y to confirm, then restart your PC. The scan runs on the next boot.

### **Method 6: Perform a Clean Boot**

A clean boot starts Windows with only essential drivers, helping identify software conflicts:

  • Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to the Startup tab.
  • Disable all startup items by right-clicking each and selecting Disable.
  • Open msconfig: Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
  • Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
  • Restart your PC in clean boot mode. If the BSOD doesnt appear, re-enable items one by one to isolate the culprit.

### **Method 7: Restore Windows or Reset Your PC (Last Resort)**

If all else fails, restore your system to a previous state or reset Windows:

  • Create a backup of important files using File Explorer or OneDrive.
  • Use System Restore: Search for Create a restore point, go to System Protection, and select System Restore. Choose a restore point from before the BSODs started.
  • Reset Windows (if needed): Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything based on your needs.

FAQ About SERIAL DRIVER INTERNAL (0X00000038) BSOD

Q: Will this error damage my hardware?
A: No, the BSOD itself doesnt harm your hardware. However, if its caused by a failing device (e.g., a USB adapter), prolonged use may risk data loss or physical damage.

Q: Should I replace my serial port if the BSOD persists?
A: Try testing with another USB port or cable first. If the issue remains, the device itself might be faultycontact the manufacturer for support.

Q: Can third-party driver tools help?
A: While some tools claim to fix BSODs, Microsofts built-in utilities (SFC, DISM) are safer and more reliable. Avoid untrusted software that promises “one-click fixes.”

Q: Why does this happen after a Windows update?
A: Updates sometimes introduce compatibility issues with older hardware. Rolling back the driver or waiting for a patch often resolves it.

Q: Is this error common on laptops vs. desktops?
A: It can occur on both, but laptops may experience it more frequently due to USB hubs or docks with serial adapters. Desktops are less prone unless using legacy hardware.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the SERIAL DRIVER INTERNAL (0X00000038) BSOD and prevent future crashes. If the problem persists, consider seeking professional IT support or checking for manufacturer-specific solutions for your serial devices.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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

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