How to Fix BSOD Error 0x0000010D: WDF_VIOLATION and Kernel-Mode Driver Framework Issues

A Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is one of the most frustrating problems you can encounter on a Windows PC. Among the many error codes, 0x0000010D (WDF_VIOLATION) is a critical one that often indicates an issue with the Kernel-Mode Driver Framework (KMDF) and could cause system crashes, data loss, or reduced performance. In this guide, we'll walk you through understanding what this error means, the possible causes behind it, and how to resolve it effectively. 

What is BSOD Error 0x0000010D (WDF_VIOLATION)?

The 0x0000010D BSOD error, commonly accompanied by the term WDF_VIOLATION, happens when Windows detects an error in a framework-based driver. Specifically, the issue lies with the Kernel-Mode Driver Framework (KMDF), a platform that allows developers to create drivers for Windows devices. KMDF helps maintain the stability of hardware and software interactions, ensuring they run smoothly without interfering with one another.

When this error occurs, it means that Windows has encountered an issue with the KMDF-based driver that cannot be handled gracefully, thus triggering a blue screen to protect your system from potential damage.

What Causes BSOD Error 0x0000010D?

There are several reasons why BSOD error 0x0000010D might occur. The causes generally revolve around issues with the drivers installed on your system:

1. Corrupted or Outdated Drivers

Outdated or faulty drivers, especially those involving hardware or peripheral devices, are one of the most common causes of the WDF_VIOLATION error. Drivers control how the operating system communicates with the hardware, and if they become corrupted, they may disrupt this communication, leading to a system crash.

2. Incompatible or Faulty Hardware

Hardware compatibility issues are another leading cause of this error. For example, if you’ve recently installed new hardware or connected external devices, such as printers, USB devices, or graphics cards, incompatible or defective hardware could trigger the 0x0000010D BSOD.

3. System File Corruption

Corruption of system files can often cause various BSODs, including the WDF_VIOLATION error. Corrupt files might interfere with how drivers are loaded, creating conflicts in the Kernel-Mode Driver Framework and leading to system instability.

4. Malware or Third-Party Software

Malware infections or third-party software that conflicts with Windows' driver framework could also be responsible for triggering the WDF_VIOLATION error. Malware can corrupt system files or interfere with driver operation, often causing unexpected crashes.

5. Faulty Windows Updates

While updates are intended to improve system performance and security, sometimes a recent Windows update can introduce bugs or issues that lead to driver conflicts and BSOD errors.

How to Fix BSOD Error 0x0000010D (WDF_VIOLATION)

If you're facing this error, don't panic. Here are some step-by-step solutions to help you fix 0x0000010D:

1. Update or Roll Back Drivers

Update Drivers: The first step in resolving this issue is to ensure all your drivers are up to date. You can do this through Device Manager:

•   Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
•   Right-click on any device (especially the ones recently installed) and choose Update Driver.
•   Follow the prompts to search for and install any available updates.

Roll Back Drivers: If the error appeared after a recent driver update, consider rolling back to a previous version of the driver:

  Right-click on the device in Device Manager.

  Select Properties, go to the Driver tab, and click Roll Back Driver.

  Follow the prompts to restore the previous version of the driver.

2. Check for Hardware Issues

If you've recently installed new hardware, such as a printer, external drive, or graphic card, remove or replace it to see if the error persists. If your system runs fine without the hardware, it's likely the culprit. You can also run Windows' built-in Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter to detect and fix any hardware-related issues:

•   Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Hardware and Devices.
•   Run the troubleshooter and follow its recommendations.

3. Run System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted system files can cause a wide range of BSOD errors. To fix this:

•   Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
•   Type `sfc /scannow` and press Enter.
•   Let the tool scan your system and repair any corrupted files it detects.

4. Use DISM Tool

If SFC doesn’t fix the issue, use the Deployment Imaging Service and Management (DISM) tool to repair the Windows image:

•   Open Command Prompt (Admin).
•   Type the following command:  
•  `DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image/RestoreHealth  
•   Press Enter and allow the process to complete.

5. Check for Malware

Malware can compromise system files and drivers, leading to BSOD errors. Use Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus tool to perform a deep scan of your system:

•   Open Windows Security (or your antivirus tool).
•   Select Virus & Threat Protection > Quick Scan or Full Scan.
•   Follow the prompts to quarantine or remove any malicious software.

6. Uninstall Recent Windows Updates

If the error started occurring after a recent Windows update, uninstall the update to see if it resolves the issue:

•   Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
•   Click View update history > Uninstall updates.
•   Select the recent update and click Uninstall.

7. Perform a System Restore

If none of the above methods work, you may need to restore your system to a previous working state:

•   Open Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore.
•   Choose a restore point from before the BSOD started occurring and follow the prompts to restore your system.

8. Reset or Reinstall Windows

As a last resort, if the problem persists, consider performing a reset or clean installation of Windows. This will restore your system to its original state, potentially eliminating the WDF_VIOLATION error:

•   Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
•   Select Reset this PC or use the Create Installation Media tool to perform a fresh installation.

Tips to Prevent BSOD Error 0x0000010D

To minimize the chances of encountering the 0x0000010D error in the future, follow these preventive tips:

• Regularly update your drivers: Ensure your hardware drivers are up to date by checking for updates regularly.
• Avoid installing unverified hardware: Stick to trusted and compatible hardware to prevent issues.
• Use antivirus software: Keep your system safe from malware by running regular scans and keeping your antivirus software updated.
• Backup your system: Create regular backups of your system to restore your files if anything goes wrong.
• Enable Windows Updates: Keep your Windows OS updated to ensure you get the latest security patches and bug fixes.

Conclusion

The 0x0000010D (WDF_VIOLATION) BSOD error can be frustrating, but it is fixable with the right steps. By following the methods outlined in this guide—updating drivers, checking for hardware issues, running system scans, and utilizing built-in Windows tools—you can resolve this issue and prevent it from reoccurring in the future.

If you're still facing issues, don't hesitate to reach out for professional support to keep your system running smoothly.

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