Windows & BSOD · critical

How to fixREGISTRY_ERROR

REGISTRY_ERROR (0x00000051)

What this error means

This critical-severity issue affects the Windows operating system. The REGISTRY_ERROR bug check has a value of 0x00000051. This BSOD indicates that an I/O error occurred while the registry was trying to read one of its files, or that the registry has become corrupted due to hardware or file system faults. 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 4 complete
01Perform a system restore to a point before the registry error occurred

Perform a system restore to a point before the registry error occurred.

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
02Check disk file system for integrity errors

Check disk file system for integrity errors.

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
03Run SFC and DISM in Windows Recovery Environment

Run SFC and DISM in Windows Recovery Environment.

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
04Check drive health status using SMART utilities

Check drive health status using SMART utilities.

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

  • Corrupt registry hives due to power loss or crash
  • Failing storage drives (SSD/HDD) containing registry files
  • Corrupted file system structures