Drivers · critical

How to fixDRIVER-VERIFIER-FAIL

Driver Verifier found a violation of

What this error means

DRIVER-VERIFIER-FAIL is a critical-severity system driver problem. Windows Driver Verifier detected illegal driver behavior in memory or IRQL. Use the steps below to track down and fix the cause.

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 3 complete
01Identify the culprit of the crash dump in WinDbg

Identify the culprit of the crash dump in WinDbg.

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
02Uninstall or update the detected driver

Uninstall or update the detected driver.

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
03Turn off Driver Verifier after diagnosis

Turn off Driver Verifier after diagnosis.

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

  • Driver accessed invalid memory
  • IRQL violation
  • Stack overflow in driver