Fixing the 0x00000113 BSOD: A Complete Guide to Resolving the VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR

The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is one of the most dreaded errors for Windows users. If you're facing the error code 0x00000113, also known as `VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR`, it can be frustrating and worrying. This specific BSOD error indicates that something has gone wrong with the DirectX Graphics Kernel, which is crucial for rendering graphics and video. In this guide, we’ll walk you through understanding the cause of the error, why it occurs, and most importantly, how to fix it. We’ll also provide tips on preventing it from happening again.

What is the 0x00000113 BSOD Error?

The 0x00000113 BSOD, often accompanied by the message VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR, is a critical error related to the video subsystem in your system, particularly the DirectX Graphics Kernel. This error typically occurs when the system detects an issue with the interaction between the graphics driver and the graphics hardware.

The error can prevent the system from properly rendering graphics, which can cause your computer to crash and display the BSOD. It often points to problems with video drivers, hardware conflicts, or corrupted system files that impact how video and graphics are processed on your computer.

Causes of the 0x00000113 BSOD Error

Several factors can trigger the VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR. Here are the most common causes:

1. Outdated or Corrupt Graphics Drivers

   One of the leading causes of this BSOD is outdated or corrupt graphics drivers. The DirectX Graphics Kernel relies on the drivers to interact with your hardware, and if these drivers are outdated, missing, or corrupted, it can lead to errors like 0x00000113.

2. Overclocking Issues

   Overclocking your GPU or CPU beyond the manufacturer’s recommended limits can cause instability, including errors like this. The increased workload can stress your hardware, causing system failures, especially under high graphical loads.

3. Conflicting Hardware or Software

   Conflicts between your system’s hardware (such as the graphics card) and other devices or software installed on your system can trigger the error. This could be due to incompatible software updates or faulty peripherals.

4. Corrupted System Files

   Essential system files related to video rendering, such as DirectX or the Windows kernel, may be corrupted or missing, which can result in the VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR.

5. Faulty Graphics Hardware

   If your graphics card or the GPU is malfunctioning or has suffered damage, it can cause the dxgkrnl.sys driver to fail, leading to the 0x00000113 error.

6. Windows Updates

   Certain Windows updates can occasionally cause compatibility issues with drivers or video components, which might lead to this BSOD error.

How to Fix the 0x00000113 BSOD Error

Now that we know the causes, let's focus on how to fix this issue. Follow these stepbystep methods to resolve the error:

1. Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers

   The most common fix for VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR is updating or reinstalling your graphics drivers.

   Steps:

•     Open Device Manager by rightclicking the Start button and selecting it.
•     Locate Display Adapters and expand the section.
•     Rightclick your graphics card and select Update driver.
•     Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
•     If no updates are found, go to the manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) and manually download the latest drivers for your graphics card.
•     Alternatively, uninstall the current driver and reinstall it to fix any corruption.

   Tip: Use a driver updater tool like Driver Booster to automatically update and fix all outdated or missing drivers.

2. Uninstall Problematic Software

   If you've recently installed software that might be causing a conflict with your graphics drivers, try uninstalling it.

   Steps:

•     Open Settings and go to Apps.
•     Browse through your installed software and remove any programs that were recently installed or might be interfering with your graphics system.

3. Disable Overclocking

   If you’re overclocking your GPU or CPU, revert them back to their factory settings. Overclocking can create instability, especially if your hardware isn’t designed to run at higher speeds.

   Steps:

•     Open your BIOS/UEFI settings by pressing F2 or DEL during boot (varies by manufacturer).
•     Reset any overclocked settings to their default values.
•     Save and exit the BIOS/UEFI.

4. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

   Corrupted system files can contribute to the VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR. Running SFC and DISM will repair damaged system files.

   Steps:

•     Open Command Prompt as administrator by searching for "cmd" in the Start menu, rightclicking it, and selecting Run as administrator.
•     Run the following commands:
  
  •       sfc /scannow: This will check for and repair corrupted system files.
  •       DISM /Online /CleanupImage /RestoreHealth: This tool fixes Windows image files and repairs system health.
•     Restart your PC after the scans complete.

5. Check Your Hardware

   If the problem persists after software fixes, the issue might be with your hardware. You should check your graphics card and other hardware components for issues.

•     Reseat your GPU: Remove and reinsert your graphics card to ensure it's properly seated.
•     Test with another GPU: If possible, test your system with a different graphics card to see if the error is related to a faulty GPU.
•     Run hardware diagnostics: Some manufacturers offer diagnostic tools (like Dell SupportAssist) to check the health of your hardware.

6. Perform a System Restore

   If the issue started recently after installing a Windows update or new software, you can try rolling back your system to a previous restore point.

   Steps:

•     Type System Restore in the Start menu and open the tool.
•     Follow the instructions to restore your system to a time before the error began.

Preventing the 0x00000113 BSOD

While fixing the issue is important, preventing it from occurring in the future is equally crucial. Here are a few tips to avoid encountering the VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR again:

1. Regularly Update Drivers: Keeping your video drivers up to date is key to ensuring stability and avoiding conflicts.

2. Avoid Overclocking: Unless you're confident in your hardware's ability to handle overclocking, it's safer to leave the settings at their defaults to prevent overheating and instability.

3. Install Software Cautiously: Only install programs from trusted sources, and be cautious when installing software that could impact your graphics or video settings.

4. Run Regular System Scans: Use tools like Windows Defender or thirdparty antivirus software to ensure your system is free from malware that could corrupt system files.

5. Monitor Hardware Temperatures: Use software like HWMonitor to keep an eye on the temperatures of your graphics card and CPU. High temperatures can lead to system instability.

Conclusion

The 0x00000113 BSOD, or VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR, may seem like a complicated issue, but with the right steps, it can be resolved. By updating drivers, checking for hardware faults, and running system checks, you can fix the error and prevent it from returning. Regular maintenance, such as updating drivers and scanning for malware, can help keep your system stable and avoid future issues.

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