How to fix the Windows MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION error step by step

Has your computer displayed a blue screen with the message MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION? This error may seem intimidating at first, especially because of its technical name, but don't worry, in this guide we explain in depth what causes it, how to identify its origin and, most importantly, what to do to fix it without losing your information.

Let's start to analize All possible causes of stop code 0x0000009C, also known as MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION, and we'll provide detailed, easy-to-follow solutions. From simple recommendations like updating drivers to more technical steps like changing BIOS settings or physically checking your computer's hardware.

What is the MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION error?

The error MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION is one of those known as Windows blue screen errors (Blue Screen of Death or BSOD). Its appearance indicates that The processor has detected a critical hardware anomaly that cannot be resolved by software.

This error can be due to multiple factors, such as a poor hardware connection, processor overheating, modules of defective memory, hard drive errors, BIOS errors or even problems due to overclockingBut it is a common problem.

In fact, other associated errors include the error 0x0000007E (SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED) and the error 0x0000000A (IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL), both linked to faulty drivers or RAM problems. In addition, the 0x00000050 error (PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA) and the error 0x0000007F (UNEXPECTED_KERNEL_MODE_TRAP) can occur due to memory failures or processor overheating.

It is also similar to 0x000000F4 (CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION), which is usually caused by hard drive problems, and 0x000000BE (ATTEMPTED_WRITE_TO_READONLY_MEMORY), caused by faulty drivers or incompatible hardware.

All these mistakes share triggers such as memory failures, hard drives, corrupted drivers, overheating, or improper BIOS settings.

Main causes of the MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION error

There are several common reasons that can cause this error:

• CPU overheating: If the heatsink is not properly seated or there is excessive dust on the fan, the processor will overheat and cause the system to crash.
• Problems with RAM memory: : Faulty or incorrectly inserted modules can also cause this error.
• Incompatible storage devices: External hard drives or SSDs that use drivers incompatible with Windows.
• Outdated drivers: especially those of the graphics or network card.
• Incorrect BIOS settings: Options such as Fast Boot or Intel SpeedStep may conflict with hardware.
• Feeding problems: An inadequate or faulty power supply can cause errors when more power is required.

Steps to resolve the MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION error

We introduce you 14 verified methods To correct this error, you can try each one based on your experience level or go directly to the one that best suits your situation.

1. Disconnect external hard drives and DVDs

If you are installing Windows and you get the error with external hard drives or a DVD player connected, the first thing you should do is physically disconnect themMany errors occur because the drivers for these devices aren't compatible with the operating system. Try installing Windows without any additional devices connected.

2. Update drivers

Outdated drivers can cause hardware compatibility issues. To update your drivers:

1. Balance Windows + X and select “Device Manager”.
2. Right click on the conflicting component and select “Update driver”.
3. Choose the option “Search automatically for updated driver software".
4. Restart your computer after upgrade.

3. Uninstall the graphics card driver

If the source of the problem is related to the video card, uninstalling its driver may help:

1. Open Device Manager from the Start menu.
2. Go to "Display adapters"and do right click on your graphics card.
3. Select “Uninstall” and accepts the warning.
4. Restart the computer and check if the error persists.

4. Use the blue screen troubleshooter

Windows 10 and higher include an automatic troubleshooter:

1. Opens "Configuration” from the start menu.
2. Go to "Update and security”>“Solve problems".
3. Choose "Blue screen" and later "Run the solver".
4. Follow the steps shown on the screen.

5. Run System File Checker (SFC)

If there are corrupted system files, the SFC checker can automatically repair many of them:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (right click on start > “Command Prompt (Admin)”).
2. Write sfc / scannow and hit Enter.
3. Wait for the analysis to finish and restart the computer.

6. Use the DISM tool

DISM repairs the system image if SFC alone isn't sufficient. You can run it like this:

Standard mode:

1. Open the command prompt and type: DISM / Online / Cleanup Image / RestoreHealth
2. Wait for it to finish and reboot.

Using Windows installation media:

1. Connect a USB with Windows.
2. At the command prompt type:
   dism / online / cleanup-image / scanhealth
   dism / online / cleanup-image / restorehealth
   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /source:WIM:X:\Sources\Install.wim:1 /LimitAccess (replace X with the USB letter).

7. Update BIOS

An Old BIOS may cause incompatibilities. Check your BIOS version by typing msinfo32 in the boot menu. Download the latest version from your motherboard manufacturer's website and follow the update instructions carefully.

8. Disable fast boot

Fast boot may cause conflicts when starting some devices:

1. Go to Control Panel > Power Options.
2. Click on "Choose what the power button does".
3. Click on "Change currently unavailable settings".
4. Deactivate “Activate fast startup” and save the changes.

9. Disable Intel SpeedStep in BIOS

This feature allows the processor to dynamically reduce its power consumption, but it can cause errors on certain devices:

1. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS (usually by pressing F2 or F10).
2. Look for the option "Intel Speed ​​Step” and disable it.
3. Save the changes and reboot the system.

10. Physically check the hardware

Open your PC tower (with the computer turned off) and check:

• That RAM is properly inserted
• That the sink is firmly attached
• that there is not dust accumulation on ventilators

11. Disable the LAN network adapter

The LAN adapter may cause conflicts on certain devices:

1. Opens "Settings” > “Network & Internet".
2. Click on "State” and then in “Change adapter options".
3. Take the right click on your LAN adapter and select "Deactivate".

12. Configure SATA Fast Boot in BIOS

This option may help if your motherboard supports it. Consult your motherboard's manual to enable it correctly.

13. Check if any component is damaged

Faulty hardware, such as a processor o memory module, is one of the most common causes:

• Take memory tests with Memtest86.
• Try your processor on another motherboard if possible.
• Check that the power supply is supplying adequate power.

14. Reset your computer

If none of the above works, you can use the Windows “Reset this PC” option:

1. Go to Settings > Update & security > Recovery.
2. Click on "Contac us" and "Reset this PC".
3. Select whether you want to keep files or start from scratch.

How to recover lost files after the error

If the MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION error has caused data loss, you can use recovery tools like Recover Data Recovery, which allows you to scan hard drives, preview and restore important documents.

After installing the tool:

• Select the unit where your files were.
• Make a deep scan (it may take a while).
• Filter by type of file, date or size if you want to speed up the search.
• Preview the files and select the ones you want to recover.
• Keep them in a external device.

The MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION error, although severe, can be successfully treated if you follow a clear and orderly methodology. Whether it's a hardware problem, a configuration problem, or an operating system software problem, you have several effective tools to identify and correct it. Acting calmly, following the appropriate technical steps, and, if necessary, using specialized software to recover your personal data is essential.