Windows & BSOD · critical

How to fix0x00000133

DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION

What this error means

DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION (0x00000133) is a critical-severity fault affecting the Windows operating system. A deferred procedure call (DPC) routine took too long and crashed the system. Reports of DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION usually describe a sudden crash, brief unresponsiveness, or a stop-code screen appearing out of nowhere. Typical causes include bad SSD/SATA controller driver, incompatible disk firmware and graphics driver error. The steps below are ordered to resolve this efficiently.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 2 complete
01Update the iastor.sys driver to the standard SATA AHCI driver from Microsoft

Update the iastor.sys driver to the standard SATA AHCI driver from Microsoft.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

I need help
02Update the SSD firmware

Update the SSD firmware.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

I need help

Possible causes

  • Bad SSD/SATA controller driver
  • Incompatible disk firmware
  • Graphics driver error

Useful Windows tools

These commands open Windows tools. Review any action inside the tool before applying changes.

devmgmt.msc