How to Fix PFN List Corrupt BSOD Error on Windows 11

It’s not uncommon for Windows 11 users to encounter Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors. These errors can be tricky to troubleshoot because their causes are not always immediately clear. One BSOD error that has been affecting many Windows 11 users is the PFN List Corrupt error, which appears without warning and forces the system to shut down.

What Causes the PFN List Corrupt BSOD?
The PFN List Corrupt error typically results from issues with your RAM. The PFN (Page Frame Number) List is a database the operating system uses to manage physical memory. If this database becomes corrupted, your computer can’t use RAM properly, which may trigger the BSOD. Other possible causes include corrupted system files, faulty hard drives, or other hardware problems.

Even though the PFN List Corrupt error may seem complicated, fixing it is relatively straightforward. Below are several methods to resolve the error.

1. Update Windows 11
One of the easiest ways to resolve this issue is to update your operating system. Keeping Windows 11 updated ensures you have the latest security patches, stability improvements, and new features.

To update:
– Navigate to Settings > Windows Update.
– Click Check for Updates to download and install any available updates.

2. Uninstall Security Programs
Third-party security programs like antivirus software or VPNs can sometimes cause conflicts that lead to BSOD errors. Many users have reported that uninstalling these programs helped fix the PFN List Corrupt issue.

– Open the Control Panel.
– Uninstall any recently installed security programs.
– Restart your PC and check if the issue persists.

3. Update Device Drivers
Outdated or incompatible drivers can also lead to BSOD errors. Updating your device drivers can resolve these issues.

To update drivers:
1. Open Device Manager by searching for it in the Windows 11 search bar.
2. Expand each device category, then right-click and select Update Driver.
3. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

Restart your computer after updating the drivers.

4. Run SFC/DISM Commands
To fix corrupted system files, you can use the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM).

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for “CMD” and selecting Run as administrator.
2. Enter the command:
`sfc /scannow`
3. If errors are found, run:
`DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth`
4. Restart your PC after the commands have completed.

5. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic
Since RAM issues are a common cause of the PFN List Corrupt error, you should run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool to identify any memory problems.

1. Search for Windows Memory Diagnostic and open the tool.
2. Choose Restart now and check for problems.
3. The tool will scan your RAM during the reboot. If errors are found, consider cleaning or reseating the RAM.

6. Use Check Disk Utility
Just like RAM, hard drive issues can also cause the PFN List Corrupt error. You can use the built-in Check Disk Utility to scan for and fix drive problems.

1. Open File Explorer and right-click the drive where Windows is installed.
2. Select Properties > Tools > Check in the Error Checking section.
3. Click Scan Drive to start the check.

7. Run the BSOD Troubleshooter
Windows 11 has a built-in BSOD troubleshooter that guides you through steps to resolve the issue.

1. Open the Get Help app by searching for it in the Windows search bar.
2. Type Troubleshoot BSOD error in the search field and press Enter.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

8. Disable RAM Overclocking
If the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool finds errors, the issue may be with overclocked RAM. Disabling overclocking can help.

– Access your BIOS and disable the XMP profile applied to your RAM.
– If you are using any software to overclock or underclock hardware, revert these changes.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the PFN List Corrupt BSOD error on your Windows 11 device. Learn More