DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION (0x000000C4) BSOD: How to Fix It and Keep Your PC Stable

Few things are more alarming than a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), especially when it comes with a cryptic message like 0x000000C4 - DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION. This error indicates that Windows' built-in Driver Verifier has caught a serious problem with one or more of your system drivers. While Driver Verifier is an excellent debugging tool for developers, it can wreak havoc on regular users if misconfigured or triggered by unstable drivers.

This guide dives deep into what the 0x000000C4 BSOD means, why it happens, how to fix it, and—more importantly—how to stop it from ever appearing again.

What Is Error Code 0x000000C4?

STOP Code: 0x000000C4
Error Name: DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION

This BSOD is triggered when the Driver Verifier detects a violation of driver behavior that could cause system instability. It’s essentially Windows throwing up a red flag to prevent worse damage.

The error is typically encountered during system boot or while running hardware-intensive tasks and is common in systems where Driver Verifier is enabled.

What Causes DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION?

Here are the primary reasons behind the error:

1. Corrupt or Incompatible Drivers
   Most often, the problem lies with a faulty driver that fails under Driver Verifier’s stress testing.
2. Recently Installed or Updated Drivers
   New driver installations—especially beta or unsigned ones—can trip the verifier.
3. Driver Verifier Left On
   Driver Verifier is usually used for testing and should be disabled afterward. Leaving it on causes constant stress testing of drivers, often leading to BSODs.
4. Outdated System Files or OS Bugs
   System updates that patch kernel or driver interactions can resolve BSODs like this.
5. Faulty Hardware
   Rarely, the problem could be due to actual failing components like RAM or a GPU, which amplify driver misbehavior.

How to Fix 0x000000C4: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Boot Into Safe Mode

Since this BSOD often prevents normal startup, begin in Safe Mode.

Steps:

1. Power off your PC.
2. Turn it on and press F8 or hold Shift + F8 to enter recovery mode.
3. Navigate to:
   
   • Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart
4. On reboot, select Safe Mode with Networking.

Step 2: Disable Driver Verifier

1. Press Win + R, type verifier, and hit Enter.
2. Choose Delete existing settings.
3. Click Finish, then Restart your PC.

Disabling Driver Verifier often immediately stops the BSOD loop.

Step 3: Identify the Faulty Driver

Use WhoCrashed, BlueScreenView, or WinDbg (Windows Debugger) to analyze memory dump files:

1. Go to C:\Windows\Minidump.
2. Open the .dmp files using one of the above tools.
3. Look for drivers like xyz.sys in the crash details. Note the names.

Step 4: Update or Roll Back Problem Drivers

1. Open Device Manager (Win + X > Device Manager).
2. Locate the hardware linked to the faulty driver.
3. Right-click > Update Driver or Uninstall and reinstall from the manufacturer’s website.
4. If the issue started after a recent update, choose Roll Back Driver.

Step 5: Run System File Checker and DISM

Corrupted system files may be worsening the issue.

In Command Prompt (Run as administrator), type:

bash

CopyEdit

sfc /scannow

‍

Follow it up with:

bash

CopyEdit

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

‍

Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot

To isolate third-party software conflicts:

1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, press Enter.
2. Under Services, check Hide Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
3. Go to Startup tab > Open Task Manager > Disable all.
4. Restart your PC.

Step 7: Restore or Reset Your PC (if all else fails)

If nothing works:

• Use System Restore to roll back to a known working state.
• Or go to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC.

Tips to Prevent 0x000000C4 in the Future

Keep Drivers Clean and Updated

Avoid generic or third-party driver installers. Always use official sources.

Use Driver Verifier Cautiously

If you’re not debugging a specific driver issue, keep Driver Verifier turned off.

Avoid Beta Drivers

Stick to WHQL-certified drivers unless you're testing or debugging software or hardware.

Check RAM and Disk Health

Use tools like MemTest86 and CrystalDiskInfo to rule out hardware instability.

Enable System Restore

Having restore points saved can save hours of troubleshooting in future BSOD scenarios.

Final Thoughts

While 0x000000C4 - DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION can feel overwhelming, it’s ultimately a helpful warning sign that something needs attention before it leads to deeper instability or data loss.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can eliminate the BSOD, stabilize your system, and restore smooth performance.

Pro Tip:
Want to automate driver and system maintenance? Consider using tools like:

• Driver Booster
• Snappy Driver Installer
• Windows Update Manager (WuMgr)

These help stay updated without the risk of faulty installations.

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