I just formatted my PC, and after updating Windows 10, I’m getting three screens of death: system_thread_exception_not_handled, IRQL_not_less_or_equal, Kmode_exception_not_handled.

Troubleshooting Blue Screen Errors After Fresh Windows 10 Installation: A Case Study

Introduction

Experiencing persistent blue screen errors following a clean installation of Windows 10 can be a perplexing issue for many users. Such errors not only hinder system stability but also raise concerns about underlying hardware or software conflicts. In this article, we explore a real-world scenario involving a newly formatted PC and the subsequent emergence of multiple blue screen errors, offering insights into potential causes and solutions.

System Specifications

The affected system comprises the following components:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 3500X
• Motherboard: ASUS TUF Gaming B450 Plus
• Graphics Card: GIGABYTE GV-R77OC-1GD (Revision 2.0)
• Storage: M.2 SSD

Initial Setup and Observations

The user performed a complete format, deleting all existing partitions before installing Windows 10. Post-installation, only the standard Windows drivers were used initially. No third-party applications or work-related software were installed at this stage, and the system was allowed to update through Windows Update.

Problem Symptoms

Despite following standard procedures, the system displayed recurrent Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors, including:

• SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED
• IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
• KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED

Significantly, these errors persisted even when using only default Windows drivers, indicating a deeper underlying issue that was not solely driver-related. The errors occurred during normal operation and also in Safe Mode.

Troubleshooting Steps and Considerations

1. Verify Hardware Compatibility and Integrity

2. Ensure all hardware components, especially the CPU, motherboard, and GPU, are functioning correctly. Faulty RAM or other hardware defects can precipitate BSODs.

3. Update or Reinstall Drivers

4. Although the user installed graphics drivers, errors continued. Confirm the latest compatible drivers are installed directly from the manufacturer’s website rather than Windows Update to ensure proper compatibility.

5. Test Memory Modules

6. Run memory diagnostics (e.g., Windows Memory Diagnostic or MemTest86) to identify potential RAM issues, especially since IRQL errors often relate to memory problems.

7. Check Storage Devices

8. Use tools such as CrystalDiskInfo or manufacturer’s utilities to assess the health of the M.2 SSD.

9. Review System Logs and Minidumps

10. Analyze