Troubleshooting BSOD During Windows Installation: Addressing Netwtw08.sys and Netwtw10.sys Errors
Introduction
Encountering blue screen errors (BSOD) during the Windows installation process can be challenging, especially when they’re related to network driver issues such as Netwtw08.sys and Netwtw10.sys. This article provides a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and resolving these errors, based on real-world troubleshooting scenarios involving hardware and driver conflicts.
Case Overview
A user was assisting a friend with a PC experiencing installation failures. During the Windows setup, the process would progress until approximately 33%, at which point a BSOD would occur. The error messages indicated issues with Netwtw08.sys and Netwtw10.sys, suggesting network driver conflicts.
Initial Troubleshooting Steps Attempted
- Tested both Windows 10 and Windows 11 installation ISOs.
- Completely erased all partitions on the SSD before reinstalling.
- Repeated the installation process, with errors recurring at the same stage.
Hardware Considerations
The PC in question originally had an Intel Wireless-AC 9560 Wi-Fi module, which was known to have issues. As a result, an alternative network card from TP-Link was installed. The user also mentioned attempting driver modifications—disabling non-functioning network drivers—before the installation attempts.
Primary Objectives
- Achieve a stable, functional Windows installation on the PC.
- Resolve underlying BSOD issues encountered during installation.
- Consider cloning a working Windows system onto the SSD if feasible.
Potential Causes and Solutions
- Driver Conflicts with Network Hardware
The occurrence of Netwtw08.sys and Netwtw10.sys errors strongly indicates driver conflicts related to Intel wireless adapters or third-party network cards. To mitigate this:
- Remove or Disable Third-Party Network Adapters: Disconnect or uninstall the TP-Link network card temporarily to determine if it reduces conflicts.
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Use Minimal Hardware Configuration: Proceed with a clean installation using only essential hardware components connected.
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Updating or Installing Correct Drivers During Installation
Windows installation process may not include the latest network drivers. To ensure proper driver support:
- Load Network Drivers Manually: Download the latest drivers for the specific Wi-Fi card and network adapter from the manufacturer’s website.
- Integrate Drivers into the Windows Installation Media: Use tools like NTLite to inject drivers into the installation ISO, ensuring they are available during setup.
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