You’re not alone if your Windows 10 PC goes blue and shows a CRITICAL PROCESS DIED error. But don’t worry because we’ve got you covered.
What occurred when the critical process stopped working?
A blue screen of death with the error code 0x000000EF signifies that a critical system process on your computer has failed. Unfortunately, the operation is so essential that it might damage your hard drive, RAM, or, in difficult situations, your CPU. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Continue reading to find solutions to this issue.
If this is your first contact with this problem, your computer will restart, and everything will be OK. However, if you’ve seen this error notification multiple times, you should take action since it indicates that a critical system process is failing.
How to Fix “Critical Process Died” Error Code
You must go through many BSOD troubleshooting steps due to the wide range of possible causes. Let’s start with how to fix the Critical Process Died problem code in Windows 10.
#1. Begin by running the Hardware and Device Troubleshooter.
Let’s start with the most straightforward answer and work our way up to the more complex one.
Windows now include a slew of specialized troubleshooting tools like Critical Process Died. One of them is concerned with hardware and devices.
Unfortunately, it is no longer accessible through the Settings menu. Instead, you must launch it from the command line. Fortunately, it’s straightforward: open the Command Prompt, the type must. And press Enter.
Click “Follow” on the next page, and your System will search for defects for a few minutes. It will then issue a report on its findings.
#2. Begin using the Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management Tool.
If the problems of Critical Process Died continue, it’s time to use the Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management (DISM) tool. A damaged system image will be restored.
The device features three toggles:
/ScanHealth,
/CheckHealth
/RestoreHealth
- We’re interested in the last one. To use DISM, open the Command Prompt as an administrator by following the above steps. Then, enter DISM/Online/Cleanup-Image/restorehealth when the software launches.
- The treatment typically takes 10 to 30 minutes. If the progress meter pauses at 20% for several minutes, do not be alarmed; this is expected behavior.
- After the scan ends, restart your PC.
#3. Run the System File Checker program.
The next point is to run the System File Checker tool. It’s a well-known tool that may repair damaged or incorrectly updated system files to treat various Windows-based issues like Critical Process Died.
It is not always advantageous; people utilize it out of habit rather than necessity. In this case of the 0x000000EF error code, however, this is an essential step in the troubleshooting of Critical Process Died procedure.
- Check to see the Command Prompt as an administrator to run the checks. The most straightforward option is to search for cmd, right-click on the result, and select Run as administrator.
- Enter SFC/scannow into the Command Prompt when it appears. The operation may take some time to finish.
- When it’s finished, an on-screen report detailing any concerns and the steps the scan takes to resolve Critical Process Died and will be displayed.
- Restart your computer before you resume working.
- It also contributes to the resolution of the Bad System Config Info issue.
#4. Run an antivirus scan
Malware on your computer might be triggering the stop code. However, malware can also damage system data and processes, leaving them useless.
You can use Windows Defender or your favorite third-party antivirus solution. Just make sure to run a full system scan.
#5. Keep Your drivers
An intoxicated motorist is one of the most common reasons for the stop code. As a result, it is advisable to ensure that none of them need to be changed.
Select Right-click on the Start tile, select Device Manager and look for any devices with a yellow exclamation point next to them to check the condition of your drivers.
If an exclamation point displays on the device, right-click it and select Update Driver Software from the context menu.
#6. Uninstall Recent Windows Updates
A recent Windows update might be to blame if your issue is new. Fortunately, you may quickly delete recent updates to see whether your discomfort disappears.
To uninstall an update, open the Settings application and navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update > Update History > Uninstall Updates. Select the update to be removed, then click the Uninstall button at the top of the window.
#7. Perform a “Clean Boot.”
A clean boot is a starting mode that uses as few drivers, processes, and programs as feasible. Once your computer runs, you may start loading the missing functions to narrow down the problem of Critical Process Died.
To clean boot your computer, follow the procedures below:
- Enter “System Configuration” into the Start menu search area and select “Best Match.”
- Choose the Services tab.
- Uncheck the box next to “Hide all Microsoft Services.”
- Disable All should be selected.
- Navigate to the Startup tab.
- Choose “Open Task Manager.”
- See In the new window, click on the Startup tab once again.
- Disable all of the items on the list.
- Start your computer again.
#8. Restore Your System
To restore your computer to a prior state, utilize the System Restore program. This approach, however, is only possible if you allow the creation of restore points before the commencement of your stop code issues.
Navigate to Settings > Update and Security > Recovery. Reset this computer > Start Here > To use the System Restore software, save your data and follow the on-screen instructions.
#9. Install the most recent BIOS update.
Consider updating your computer’s BIOS as a last resort.
Unfortunately, there is no standard step for doing so; it depends on your machine’s manufacturer. Consult the company’s support materials for further information.
Last fixing Step: Reset or Reinstall
ALSO SEE: Personalized Settings Not Responding
If none of the above ideas work, is it time to bash your PC against a nearby wall and go shopping?
There is one more chance to win. The ultimate option is to reinstall Windows from scratch. If it fails, you’re likely dealing with a hardware issue like Critical Process Died.
