The Driver Power State Failure error is a common issue many Windows 11 users encounter. It usually appears as a blue screen and can disrupt your work unexpectedly. This error is often related to driver problems or power settings on your computer.
Fixing this error requires a step-by-step approach to identify and resolve the underlying cause. Fortunately, many solutions are straightforward and do not require advanced technical knowledge.
This guide will walk you through simple and detailed instructions to help you fix the Driver Power State Failure error on Windows 11. Follow each step carefully for the best results.
By the end, you should have a clearer understanding of what causes this error and how to prevent it from recurring.
Quick Note: Before You Begin
Before diving into fixes, make sure you have the following checked:
- Backup Important Data: Always back up your files to avoid data loss during troubleshooting.
- Stable Power Source: Connect your laptop to a charger or ensure your PC is plugged in to prevent shutdowns during updates.
- Note down any error codes or messages: This can help if you need further assistance.
- Windows Updates: Ensure your Windows 11 is updated, as some fixes come via system updates.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart resolves temporary glitches causing the Driver Power State Failure error. Restarting refreshes system processes and clears minor conflicts.
- Click on the Start button.
- Select Power and then click Restart.
- Wait for your PC to reboot and see if the error reoccurs.
Step 2: Update Device Drivers
Outdated or incompatible drivers are the most common cause of this error. Updating drivers ensures they work correctly with Windows 11.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Look for devices with a yellow exclamation mark, which indicates a driver issue.
- Right-click on the device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will find and install the latest driver if available.
- Repeat this process for critical devices such as display adapters, network adapters, and USB controllers.
- After updating, restart your computer.
Why this step matters: Drivers control hardware communication with your PC. Outdated drivers may cause power state conflicts, triggering the error.
Step 3: Run the Power Troubleshooter
Windows 11 includes built-in troubleshooters that automatically detect and fix common power-related problems.
- Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Power and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
- Restart your PC after the troubleshooter finishes.
Step 4: Adjust Power Settings
Incorrect power settings can cause your device drivers to malfunction during sleep or hibernation modes.
Disable Fast Startup
- Open Control Panel by searching for it in the Start menu.
- Navigate to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
- Click Choose what the power buttons do on the left sidebar.
- Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
- Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended).
- Click Save changes.
Set Power Plan to Balanced
- In Power Options, select Balanced (recommended) power plan.
- Click Change plan settings next to Balanced.
- Choose Restore default settings for this plan.
Why this helps: Fast startup and certain custom power plans can interfere with drivers managing power states, causing the error.
Step 5: Check for Driver Conflicts Using Device Manager
Sometimes, specific drivers may conflict with the system. Identifying and disabling problematic drivers can help.
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand categories such as Network adapters, Display adapters, and Universal Serial Bus controllers.
- Right-click on each device and select Properties.
- Under the Driver tab, check the driver details and version.
- If you suspect a recent driver update caused the issue, select Roll Back Driver.
- If rollback is unavailable, you can temporarily disable the device by right-clicking and selecting Disable device.
- Restart your computer and check if the error persists.
Note: Disabling devices should be done carefully, especially for essential hardware.
Step 6: Update BIOS or UEFI Firmware
The BIOS or UEFI controls low-level hardware functions. An outdated BIOS can cause incompatibility with Windows power management.
- Identify your motherboard or laptop model by checking your system information.
- Visit the manufacturer’s official website for BIOS updates.
- Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to update your BIOS/UEFI.
- Restart your PC after the update.
Important: BIOS updates carry some risk; ensure you follow instructions exactly and do not interrupt the process.
Alternative Method: Use System Restore
If the error started recently, you can restore your system to a point when it was working fine.
- Search for Create a restore point in the Start menu and open it.
- Click on System Restore.
- Select a restore point dated before the error began.
- Follow the wizard to restore your system.
- Your files will remain safe, but recently installed apps or drivers may be removed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What causes the Driver Power State Failure error?
This error is usually caused by outdated, incompatible, or corrupt device drivers, especially those related to power management. It can also be triggered by incorrect power settings or hardware conflicts.
Can I fix this error without technical skills?
Yes, many of the steps such as restarting, updating drivers through Windows Device Manager, and running troubleshooters are simple and user-friendly.
Is it safe to update the BIOS?
Updating BIOS can improve system stability but should be done carefully. Follow official instructions closely and ensure your PC does not lose power during the update.
Will uninstalling a driver fix the problem?
Uninstalling a problematic driver can sometimes help. However, it is better to update or rollback the driver first. Uninstalling may disable device functionality temporarily.
How do I know which driver is causing the issue?
Look for devices with yellow warning signs in Device Manager or check the minidump files created during the BSOD for details. Tools like BlueScreenView can help analyze these files.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above steps and still face the Driver Power State Failure error, consider the following:
- Contact Microsoft Support: Official support can provide advanced diagnostics.
- Visit your PC manufacturer’s support site: They may have device-specific fixes.
- Reset or reinstall Windows 11: As a last resort, resetting Windows can fix deep system issues but will remove installed apps and settings.
Always remember to back up your important files before attempting resets or reinstallations.
Conclusion
The Driver Power State Failure error on Windows 11 is frustrating but often fixable with patient troubleshooting. Start with simple fixes like restarting and updating drivers before moving to more advanced steps such as BIOS updates.
Adjusting power settings and using Windows’ built-in troubleshooters can also solve many common issues causing this error. If problems persist, system restore or professional support may be necessary.
By following this guide, you can minimize downtime and keep your Windows 11 PC running smoothly without unexpected blue screen errors.