When encountering the dreaded "VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR" on your Windows PC, it's likely a GPU issue. Outdated graphics card drivers, an obsolete DirectX or Windows version, or graphics adapter problems may be the culprit. But fear not, as we have several troubleshooting steps to pinpoint and resolve the issue.
To resolve the video dxgkrnl fatal error and restore your PC to its normal state, simply follow these step-by-step instructions from start to finish.
It is important to note that these instructions are meant for situations where you can turn on your PC. If the error is preventing your computer from starting up, you should try using Windows’ startup repair tool or boot your PC in safe mode before proceeding with the following methods.
- Use Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Given that the video dxgkrnl fatal error typically occurs as a result of hardware malfunctioning, it is recommended to use Windows’ in-built Hardware and Devices troubleshooter to confirm this. This tool is designed to detect issues with your hardware devices and provide solutions to resolve them.
To access the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter tool, simply open the “Run” dialog box by using the keyboard shortcut Windows+R. Once the dialog box is open, type in the command “msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic” and then hit the Enter key. The troubleshooter tool will then appear on your screen. Click the “Next” button and allow the tool to scan your PC for any issues.
If your Windows PC is displaying a video_dxgkrnl_fatal_error, corrupted system files may be the culprit. You can use your computer's built-in SFC (System File Checker) utility to find and fix all the broken system files. The SFC tool runs from a Command Prompt window and automatically detects and replaces any faulty files, ensuring that your PC functions to the best of its ability. Once the tool has identified the issue, simply follow the suggested fixes to resolve the problem and your message will no longer appear.
To utilize this tool, navigate to the "Start" menu, locate "Command Prompt", and choose "Run as Administrator." When prompted by "User Account Control", select "Yes."
Next, in the Command Prompt window, enter the following command and hit Enter. This will initiate the download of necessary files to replace any damaged files.
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
Use the command below to resolve any corrupt files on your system:
sfc /scannow
Once the scan is complete and any corrupt files have been fixed, restart your computer. This should resolve any errors you were experiencing.
- Reinstall Your Graphics Card Drivers
If you're encountering the error mentioned above, it could be due to corrupt graphics card drivers. These drivers can cause a range of issues on your computer, including the one you're currently experiencing.
To resolve this problem, you'll need to remove your current drivers and allow Windows to install new ones for you. Here's how to do it:
1. Right-click on the "Start" menu icon, and select "Device Manager."
2. In the Device Manager window, expand the "Display Adapters" category.
3. Right-click on your graphics adapter, and select "Uninstall Device."
Once you have accessed the device manager, select the option to "Delete the Driver Software for This Device" and then proceed to choose "Uninstall." After successfully uninstalling the drivers, it is important to reboot your PC. By doing so, Windows will automatically install the necessary drivers for your graphics card.
DirectX is a Windows utility that improves your gaming and multimedia viewing experience on your computer. However, if you're encountering the "VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR" error, it could be due to an outdated version of DirectX. The solution is simple: update your PC's DirectX version by updating your Windows operating system.
- Use System Restore
If updating DirectX doesn't resolve the issue, a recent change you've made to your PC might be the culprit. In this case, rolling back your PC to a restore point in the past can undo the recent change and potentially fix the error.
Open the "Start" menu and navigate to "Recovery" to access "System Restore." From there, select "Open System Restore" and proceed to the tool window. Next, click "Next" and choose the most recent restore point before selecting "Next" again and clicking "Finish." Upon completion of the restoration process, your PC should no longer encounter the BSOD error.
Updating your Windows operating system can be a quick and effective way to remedy many issues on your device. The latest versions of Windows often include numerous patches that work to fix existing bugs and errors present in your files. By bringing your Windows version up to date, you can resolve many common errors with ease.
To update your Windows 11 PC, simply navigate to Settings > Windows Update, select "Check for Updates," and proceed to download and install any available updates.
If you are running Windows 10, head to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, select "Check for Updates," and download and install any updates that are displayed to keep your system running smoothly.
Your problem should now be resolved.
- Disable Fast Startup
Fast Startup is a Windows feature that helps to speed up the boot time of your PC. If you encounter an issue that prevents you from turning on your computer, try disabling this feature to see if it solves the problem.
To turn off a feature, navigate to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options > Choose What the Power Buttons Do. At the top of the page, click on “Change Settings That Are Currently Unavailable.”
Next, locate the “Turn On Fast Startup (Recommended)” option and disable it. Finally, click on “Save Changes.”