How to Fix “Driver Overran Stack Buffer” Error in Windows
Encountering a “Driver Overran Stack Buffer” error can be a frustrating experience for any Windows user. This Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error is typically triggered by a driver writing more data than the stack can handle, which may be due to corrupt drivers or hardware issues. To resolve this problem, follow these steps:
1. Update Your Drivers: Keeping your drivers up-to-date is essential. You can update them manually by visiting the device manufacturer’s website and downloading the latest versions. Alternatively, use Windows Update or a reliable third-party tool.
2. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic: Bad memory (RAM) can cause this issue. To check your memory, type ‘Windows Memory Diagnostic’ in the search bar and choose to restart your computer and check for problems.
3. Check for Updates: Ensure your Windows is updated to the latest version. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install any available updates.
4. Run Driver Verifier: This built-in tool helps identify problematic drivers. Access it by typing ‘verifier’ in the search bar, and select ‘Create standard settings’. Follow the prompts to identify drivers that need attention.
5. Use System Restore: If you started facing this error after updating a driver or making other system changes, use System Restore to revert your system back to when it was working correctly.
6. Perform an SFC Scan: System File Checker can repair corrupted system files which might be causing the error. In the Command Prompt (run as administrator), type ‘sfc /scannow’ and press Enter.
7. Run DISM Tool: The Deployment Image Service and Management Tool can help fix Windows corruption errors. Open Command Prompt as administrator and type ‘DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth’.
8. Check for Hardware Issues: Sometimes hardware conflicts are to blame. Make sure there are no conflicts in Device Manager and consider temporarily removing hardware like external drives, network cards, or other peripherals to see if they might be causing the error.
9. Scan for Malware: Malware infections can create system instability. Use a trusted antivirus program to scan and remove any threats.
10. Clean Install of Windows: As a last resort, if none of the above steps work, backup all of your important files and perform a clean installation of Windows.
By methodically going through these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the “Driver Overran Stack Buffer” error in Windows and get back to a stable working environment on your PC.