Keep getting blue screens when gaming on windows 11

Troubleshooting Frequent Blue Screen Errors on Windows 11 During Gaming

Experiencing frequent blue screen errors while gaming on Windows 11 can be a frustrating issue for many users. Recent common error messages include “SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED” and “DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL.” If you’ve encountered these errors despite updating your drivers and ensuring your system isn’t overheating, you’re not alone. This article aims to guide you through effective troubleshooting steps to identify and resolve the underlying causes of blue screens during gaming sessions.

Understanding the Common Blue Screen Errors

1. SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED
This error typically occurs when a system thread generates an exception that the error handler cannot deal with. It may point to issues with faulty drivers, incompatible hardware, or system file corruption.

2. DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
This error often relates to a driver attempting to access a memory location without proper permissions, frequently caused by outdated or incompatible drivers, or hardware conflicts.

Step 1: Review Dump Files for Clues

Analyzing crash dump files can provide insight into the exact driver or process causing the issue. Since you’ve already uploaded your dump files, consider using tools like WinDbg or BlueScreenView to parse these files.

Resources:
– WinDbg
– BlueScreenView

Step 2: Verify and Update Drivers

Even if you’ve already updated your drivers, ensure all are current and compatible:

Graphics Card Drivers: Use the official NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel websites to download the latest drivers.
Motherboard and Chipset Drivers: Obtain these from your motherboard manufacturer’s website.
Peripheral Drivers: Update drivers for any connected devices (e.g., gaming controllers, audio devices).

Tip: Use tools like Driver Booster for automated updates, but always verify critical driver updates manually.