If you are a Windows 10 user, you might have come across a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with an error message stating “DPC Watchdog Violation.” This error can be quite frustrating and can occur due to various reasons such as hardware malfunction, outdated drivers, corrupted files, and many others. In this article, we will guide you on how to fix DPC Watchdog Violation Windows 10 error.
What is DPC Watchdog Violation?
DPC (Deferred Procedure Call) Watchdog Violation is a blue screen error that appears when the operating system detects a problem with the system’s hardware or drivers. The primary function of DPC is to handle interrupts and deferred procedure calls. When the operating system encounters an issue with the DPC, it triggers a BSOD with the error message “DPC Watchdog Violation.”
You may also like this:
- How to Check SSD Health on Windows 10/11
- Download Latest Windows 10 ISO Disc Image Files from Microsoft
- How to Turn Off Windows Defender in Windows 10?
Reasons for DPC Watchdog Violation
Some of the possible reasons for DPC Watchdog Violation include:
Outdated Drivers
Outdated drivers can cause various errors, including DPC Watchdog Violation. It’s crucial to ensure that all the drivers on your system are up-to-date.
Corrupted System Files
Corrupted system files can cause various issues, including DPC Watchdog Violation. Running a System File Checker (SFC) scan can help fix any corrupted files.
Hardware Malfunction
Hardware malfunction is another possible reason for DPC Watchdog Violation. Issues with the hard disk, graphics card, RAM, or any other hardware component can cause this error.
How to Fix DPC Watchdog Violation Windows 10
Here are some solutions that you can try to fix DPC Watchdog Violation on Windows 10:
Solution 1: Update Drivers
As mentioned earlier, outdated drivers can cause DPC Watchdog Violation. To update your drivers, follow these steps:
- Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager from the menu.
- Locate the device with a yellow exclamation mark.
- Right-click on the device and select Update Driver.
- Select “Search automatically for updated driver software“.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.
Solution 2: Run SFC Scan
Running an SFC scan can help fix any corrupted files. To run an SFC scan, follow these steps:
- Press Windows Key + R, type “run” and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
- Type “sfc /scannow” in the command prompt and hit Enter.
- Wait for the scan to complete and restart your system.
Solution 3: Check for Malware
Malware can cause various issues, including DPC Watchdog Violation. It’s essential to run a malware scan using reliable anti-malware software.
Solution 4: Update BIOS
Updating BIOS can also help fix DPC Watchdog Violation. To update BIOS, follow these steps:
- Press Windows Key + R and type “msinfo32” in the Run dialog box.
- Check the BIOS version/date and note it down.
- Visit the manufacturer’s website and search for BIOS updates.
- Download and install the latest BIOS update.
Solution 5: Check Hardware Components
Hardware malfunction can cause DPC Watchdog Violation. To check your hardware components, follow these steps:
- Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager from the menu.
- Check for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark.
- Right-click on the device and select Properties.
- Check the device status and troubleshoot accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can DPC Watchdog Violation damage my computer?
No, DPC Watchdog Violation is a software-related issue and cannot damage your computer.
How long does an SFC scan take?
The duration of the SFC scan varies depending on the size of your system files. It can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.
Is it safe to update BIOS?
Yes, it’s safe to update BIOS. However, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid any issues.
Can malware cause DPC Watchdog Violation?
Yes, malware can cause DPC Watchdog Violation, among other issues. It’s crucial to run a malware scan regularly to ensure the security of your system.
Can hardware malfunction cause DPC Watchdog Violation?
Yes, hardware malfunction is one of the possible reasons for DPC Watchdog Violation. It’s essential to check your hardware components and troubleshoot any issues.
Conclusion
DPC Watchdog Violation is a frustrating error that can occur due to various reasons such as outdated drivers, corrupted system files, hardware malfunction, and malware. However, with the solutions mentioned above, you can fix the error and ensure that your system runs smoothly.
If you still encounter the error even after trying the solutions mentioned above, it’s recommended to contact a professional to diagnose and fix the issue.