If you’re struggling with the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on your Windows 10 computer, you’re not alone. Luckily, you can often fix the problem using the Command Prompt. This guide will walk you through the steps to resolve the issue and get your computer running smoothly again.
How to Fix Blue Screen Error in Windows 10 Using Command Prompt
By following these steps, you’ll be able to diagnose and fix the BSOD issue using Command Prompt. This process involves running several commands to check and repair system files, and will help ensure your computer gets back on track.
Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode
First, you need to boot your computer into Safe Mode.
To do this, restart your computer and hold down the F8 key until you see the Advanced Boot Options menu. Select "Safe Mode with Command Prompt" from the list.
Step 2: Open Command Prompt
Once in Safe Mode, you need to open Command Prompt.
Press the Windows key, type "cmd," and press Enter. Make sure to run it as an administrator by right-clicking and selecting "Run as administrator."
Step 3: Run CHKDSK
Next, run the CHKDSK command to check for disk errors.
Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter. This command will scan for and fix hard drive errors. Depending on the size of your drive, this could take some time.
Step 4: Run SFC
After CHKDSK, you’ll want to run the System File Checker.
Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This command will check for and replace corrupted system files. It may take several minutes to complete.
Step 5: Run DISM
Lastly, run the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM).
Type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter. This tool will fix any Windows image issues that could be causing the BSOD.
After completing these steps, restart your computer. If everything went well, the blue screen error should be resolved, and your computer should boot normally.
Tips for Fixing Blue Screen Error in Windows 10 Using Command Prompt
- Always run Command Prompt as an administrator to ensure you have the necessary permissions.
- Regularly back up important files to avoid losing data during repairs.
- Keep your system drivers up to date to prevent hardware-related BSODs.
- Consider running a full system antivirus scan to rule out malware.
- After running these commands, check for Windows updates and install them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the Blue Screen of Death?
The BSOD is usually caused by hardware, driver, or software issues. Faulty memory, overheating, and corrupt system files are common culprits.
Can I fix BSOD without using Safe Mode?
It’s possible, but Safe Mode is recommended because it loads only essential drivers and services, making it easier to troubleshoot.
Will I lose my data by following these steps?
No, running these commands won’t delete your files. However, it’s always a good idea to back up your data before making system changes.
How long does it take to run these commands?
The time varies based on your system’s speed and the size of your hard drive. CHKDSK and SFC can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour or more.
What if these steps don’t fix my BSOD?
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it may be time to consult a professional or consider more advanced troubleshooting options, such as a clean install of Windows.
Summary of Steps to Fix Blue Screen Error in Windows 10 Using Command Prompt
- Boot into Safe Mode.
- Open Command Prompt.
- Run CHKDSK.
- Run SFC.
- Run DISM.
Conclusion
Fixing a Blue Screen error in Windows 10 using Command Prompt isn’t as complicated as it might seem. By following these steps, you can address many of the common issues causing the BSOD and get your machine running smoothly again. Remember, regular maintenance like updating drivers and keeping your system clean can prevent these issues from happening in the first place. For further reading, consider looking into other troubleshooting techniques or software tools designed to diagnose and fix Windows errors. Don’t let the Blue Screen of Death keep you down—take control and get your system back on track!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.