The PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR is one of the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors that can randomly occur on Windows, causing the system to shut down unexpectedly. It typically points to a problem with Plug and Play (PnP) devices and their drivers.
If you’re experiencing this error, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you resolve it.
What is PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR?
This error often appears with stop codes like 0x000000CA and is caused when Windows fails to properly detect or manage drivers for connected Plug and Play devices. This could happen due to:
– Incompatible or outdated drivers.
– Corrupted driver files.
– New hardware installation issues.
Since the problem revolves around drivers, the following steps focus on driver troubleshooting. Additionally, other system checks are included if driver-related fixes don’t resolve the issue.
1. Remove Newly Installed Hardware
One common reason for the PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR is newly installed hardware that conflicts with Windows. If the error appeared after adding new devices (e.g., a webcam, microphone, or mouse), try disconnecting them to see if the issue persists.
If the error disappears after removing the hardware, you’ve likely found the cause.
2. Update or Roll Back Device Drivers
If removing hardware doesn’t work, the next step is to update or roll back device drivers.
Update Drivers:
1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type `devmgmt.msc` and press Enter to open Device Manager.
3. Right-click on the device category (e.g., Keyboards, Mice) and select Update Driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow the prompts.
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Roll Back Drivers:
1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type `devmgmt.msc` and press Enter.
3. Right-click the problematic device and select Properties.
4. In the Driver tab, click Roll Back Driver.
Restart your PC after rolling back the driver to see if the issue is resolved.
3. Check Disk for Errors
A corrupted disk may also trigger this error. To check and fix potential disk issues, follow these steps:
1. Open File Explorer and right-click the C: Drive (or your system drive).
2. Select Properties.
3. In the Tools tab, click Check under Error Checking.
4. Select Scan Drive and follow the on-screen instructions.
This will help fix any file system issues that may be causing the BSOD.
4. Uninstall Recently Installed Programs
Sometimes, security software or newly installed programs can cause the PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR. To fix this:
1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type `appwiz.cpl` and press Enter to open Control Panel.
3. Find and uninstall any recently added software, especially antivirus programs like Norton.
Restart your PC after uninstallation.
5. Update Your Windows Operating System
Outdated Windows versions may cause driver or system conflicts. To keep your OS up-to-date:
1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click on Check for Updates and install any available updates.
Keeping your system updated ensures you have the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches.
6. Perform a System Restore
If the error started recently and you’re unsure what caused it, performing a System Restore can revert your PC to an earlier, error-free state.
1. Open Windows Search and type Recovery. Select the Recovery app from the results.
2. Click Open System Restore.
3. Choose a restore point and click Next.
4. Confirm your selection and click Finish.
This will roll your system back to the restore point, possibly resolving the error.
7. Reset Your PC
If all else fails, resetting your PC can be a last resort. This will reinstall Windows, but you can choose to keep your personal files.
For Windows 11:
1. Go to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced Options.
2. Select Recovery and click Reset PC.
3. Choose Keep My Files and then Cloud Download to reinstall Windows.
For Windows 10:
The steps are different. Check our detailed guide on how to reset Windows 10 to factory settings.
8. Check for Hardware Issues
If none of the above methods work, the PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR might be caused by faulty hardware such as a bad RAM module or hard drive. You may want to:
– Run a Memory Diagnostic to check for RAM issues.
– Check your hard drive for bad sectors.
– Take your PC to a professional technician for hardware diagnostics.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR and get your Windows system running smoothly again. Learn More
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