Windows & BSOD · critical

How to fix0x000000EF

CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED

What this error means

This critical-severity issue affects the Windows operating system. A critical system process (eg svchost, csrss, wininit) terminated unexpectedly. This usually traces back to malware terminating important processes, extensive registry corruption and failed to read from SSD disk. Use the steps below to track down and fix the cause.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Use instructions for your exact device and software version. If Windows cannot start, see the startup guide.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Run a full offline antivirus scan
  1. Run a full offline antivirus scan
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

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02Run DISM and SFC offline
  1. Run DISM and SFC offline
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

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03Consider a clean reinstall of Windows
  1. Consider a clean reinstall of Windows
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors

Possible causes

  • Malware terminating important processes
  • Extensive registry corruption
  • Failed to read from SSD disk