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How to Fix 0x00000190 Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

The 0x00000190 error on Windows 11 is a common Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) issue that can interrupt your work and cause frustration. This error usually points to problems with your system’s memory or driver conflicts.

Fixing this error requires a systematic approach, starting from simple checks to more detailed troubleshooting steps. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow this guide as each step is explained clearly and simply.

By following the instructions below, you can resolve the error and get your Windows 11 PC running smoothly again.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to troubleshoot and fix the 0x00000190 error.

Quick Note Before You Start

Before proceeding with the fixes, it’s important to take a few quick precautions:

  • Create a backup: Save your important files to an external drive or cloud storage in case anything goes wrong during troubleshooting.
  • Check for recent changes: Think about any new hardware or software installed recently, as they might be causing the issue.
  • Ensure your PC is plugged in: Avoid interruptions during fixes by keeping your device connected to power.
  • Have your Windows credentials ready: Some steps may require administrator access or system restart.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Many errors are temporary and can be fixed by simply restarting your PC. This refreshes system processes and clears minor glitches.

How to do this:

  1. Click the Start button in the bottom-left corner.
  2. Select Power and then Restart.
  3. Wait for your computer to reboot and check if the error appears again.

If the error persists after rebooting, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

The 0x00000190 error often relates to faulty or corrupted RAM. Windows has a built-in tool to check your memory for problems.

Why this step matters: Identifying faulty RAM can help prevent system crashes and data loss.

How to run the tool:

  1. Press Windows Key + S and type Windows Memory Diagnostic.
  2. Select the app from the search results.
  3. Choose Restart now and check for problems.
  4. Your PC will reboot and the diagnostic tool will scan your memory automatically.
  5. Once complete, Windows will restart again and display test results.

If memory errors are found, consider replacing your RAM or consulting a technician.

Step 3: Update Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause system errors like 0x00000190. Keeping drivers updated ensures your hardware communicates properly with Windows.

How to update drivers:

  1. Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the categories and look for any device with a yellow warning icon.
  3. Right-click on a device and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Repeat this for devices especially related to graphics, network, and storage.

After updating, restart your computer to apply changes.

Step 4: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

Corrupted system files can trigger BSOD errors. The System File Checker scans and repairs these files to restore stability.

How to run SFC:

  1. Press Windows Key + S and type cmd.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the command window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait for the scan to complete. It may take several minutes.
  5. If issues are found, the tool will attempt to fix them automatically.

Restart your PC after the scan finishes.

Step 5: Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft regularly releases updates to fix bugs and improve system stability. Installing the latest updates might resolve the error.

How to check for updates:

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Choose Windows Update from the left menu.
  3. Click Check for updates.
  4. If updates are available, download and install them.
  5. Restart your PC when prompted.

Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with only essential services, helping you identify if a third-party app is causing the error.

Why this helps: Conflicting software can create system instability leading to BSOD errors.

How to perform a clean boot:

  1. Press Windows Key + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check Hide all Microsoft services at the bottom.
  4. Click Disable all.
  5. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  6. Disable all startup items by right-clicking each and selecting Disable.
  7. Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
  8. Restart your computer.

If the error disappears after a clean boot, you can enable services and startup items one by one to find the culprit.

Step 7: Reset or Reinstall Windows 11

If none of the previous steps work, resetting or reinstalling Windows 11 can help fix deep system issues by restoring default settings.

Resetting Windows:

  1. Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
  2. Under Reset this PC, click Reset PC.
  3. Choose whether to keep your files or remove everything.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

Reinstalling Windows: This is more advanced and involves creating installation media using a USB drive. Visit the official Microsoft Windows 11 download page for detailed instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the 0x00000190 error in Windows 11?

This error usually results from faulty RAM, corrupted system files, outdated drivers, or software conflicts.

Is the 0x00000190 error harmful to my data?

The error itself doesn’t directly harm data, but repeated crashes can lead to data loss. Always keep backups.

Can I fix this error without technical knowledge?

Yes, this guide is designed for users of all levels. Just follow each step carefully. If unsure, seek professional help.

How long does it take to fix the error?

Most steps take between a few minutes to an hour, depending on the scan or update duration.

Do I need to replace hardware if the error continues?

If memory diagnostics detect faulty RAM, replacing it is recommended. Otherwise, software fixes usually solve the problem.

When Nothing Works

If the 0x00000190 error persists after trying all these steps, consider the following options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support website or use the built-in Windows Help app.
  • Consult a professional technician: Hardware issues might require expert diagnosis and repair.
  • Use recovery tools: Advanced users can try tools like Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) to repair or restore the system.

Conclusion

The 0x00000190 error can be frustrating, but with a methodical approach, it is often fixable without much hassle. Starting from simple restarts to checking memory and updating drivers ensures you cover all common causes.

Remember to back up your data before making major changes, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Following this guide will help you restore your Windows 11 PC to a stable and error-free state.

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