Imagine this: You're in the middle of an important task, and suddenly your Windows 11 PC crashes with a dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) flashing the error "Page Fault in Nonpaged Area". It's frustrating, right? 😩 This error points to a problem in your system's memory management, where the kernel tries to access a page of memory that isn't properly allocated. But don't worry—it's fixable! In this concise guide, we'll walk you through the most effective ways to fix Windows 11 Page Fault in Nonpaged Area, using the latest troubleshooting methods. By the end, you'll have your system back up and running like new. Let's dive in!
What Causes the "Page Fault in Nonpaged Area" Error in Windows 11?
Before we jump into fixes, understanding the root cause helps you tackle it confidently. The "Page Fault in Nonpaged Area" BSOD typically occurs when Windows 11 encounters a memory access violation in the nonpaged pool—a critical area of RAM that must always be available. Common culprits include:
- Faulty hardware: RAM modules, hard drives, or overheating components.
- Corrupted drivers: Outdated or incompatible graphics, network, or storage drivers.
- System file issues: Corrupted Windows files from incomplete updates or malware.
- Software conflicts: Recent installations or overclocking that strain memory.
Recent Windows 11 updates have improved stability, but this error persists for many users due to hardware-software mismatches. The good news? Most cases are resolved with simple steps—no need for a full reinstall. Ready to fix it? Follow these proven methods in order, starting with the easiest.
Step 1: Restart and Run Basic Diagnostics 🛠️
Sometimes, a simple restart clears temporary glitches. But for a thorough check:
- Restart your PC in Safe Mode: Press Windows + R, type
msconfig, go to the Boot tab, check "Safe boot", and restart.
- Once in Safe Mode, open Command Prompt as admin (search for "cmd" in Start menu, right-click > Run as administrator).
- Run the System File Checker: Type
sfc /scannow and hit Enter. This scans and repairs corrupted system files—essential for Page Fault in Nonpaged Area Windows 11 fixes.
- Follow up with DISM: Type
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. This restores the Windows image if SFC finds issues it can't fix.
These tools are built into Windows 11 and use the latest repair algorithms from Microsoft. If the error persists after rebooting normally, move to hardware checks. Pro tip: Keep your PC cool during these steps to avoid heat-related faults.
Step 2: Update Drivers and Windows 11 📥
Outdated drivers are a top cause of BSOD error fix needs. Windows 11's memory management is picky about compatibility.
- Update Windows: Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates. Install any available patches—these often include memory stability improvements.
- Scan for driver updates: Use Device Manager (right-click Start > Device Manager). Expand categories like Display adapters and Network adapters, right-click devices > Update driver > Search automatically.
- For graphics cards, download the latest from official sites: NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel. Avoid third-party tools to prevent conflicts.
Why this works: Recent driver versions fix memory paging bugs specific to Windows 11. If you're using third-party antivirus, update it too—conflicts here are common. Test your PC after updates; many users report instant resolution!
Step 3: Test and Fix Hardware Issues 🔧
Hardware faults demand attention. Start with memory—RAM issues cause over 40% of these BSODs.
- Run Memory Diagnostic: Search for "Windows Memory Diagnostic" in Start, choose "Restart now and check for problems". It scans for memory error Windows 11 faults.
- If errors show, reseat your RAM: Power off, unplug, open the case, remove and reinsert modules firmly. Test one stick at a time if multiple.
- Check disk health: Open Command Prompt as admin, type
chkdsk C: /f /r (replace C: with your drive). Schedule a scan on restart—it repairs bad sectors.
- For SSDs/HDDs, use CrystalDiskInfo (free tool) to monitor health.
Overheating? Clean vents and use monitoring software like HWMonitor. If you're not comfortable with hardware, consider professional help. This step often uncovers the "aha!" moment for stubborn errors.
Step 4: Advanced Fixes for Persistent Errors ⚡
If basics don't cut it, let's go deeper without overwhelming you.
| Fix Method |
Steps |
Why It Helps |
| BlueScreenView Tool |
Download from NirSoft (free), run it to analyze minidump files in C:\Windows\Minidump. It pinpoints faulty drivers. |
Identifies exact culprits like ntoskrnl.exe for troubleshoot memory error Windows 11. |
| Disable Fast Startup |
Settings > System > Power & sleep > Additional power settings > Choose what power buttons do > Uncheck "Turn on fast startup". |
Prevents hybrid shutdown glitches in memory paging. |
| System Restore |
Search "Create a restore point" > System Restore > Pick a point before the error started. |
Reverts changes without losing files—great for post-update crashes. |
These targeted fixes address software layers efficiently. For example, BlueScreenView has helped countless users zero in on driver issues quickly. If malware is suspected, run a full scan with Windows Security or Malwarebytes (official site).
Prevention Tips to Avoid Future BSODs ⭐
You've fixed it—now keep it that way! Regular maintenance is key:
- Enable automatic updates for Windows and drivers.
- Monitor RAM usage with Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc > Performance tab).
- Avoid overclocking unless you're experienced.
- Backup important data weekly using OneDrive or external drives.
By staying proactive, you'll minimize Windows 11 blue screen error risks. If the error returns after trying everything, it might be time for a clean Windows 11 install— but that's rare with these steps.
Final Thoughts: You've Got This! 🎉
Dealing with "Page Fault in Nonpaged Area" can feel overwhelming, but armed with these steps, you're equipped to reclaim your PC's performance. Start simple, escalate as needed, and soon you'll be back to seamless computing. If one method works for you, share in the comments below—what fixed your fix Windows 11 Page Fault in Nonpaged Area issue? For more Windows tips, stick around our site. Happy troubleshooting! 👏
Based on the latest Microsoft documentation and community-verified solutions as of 2026.