How to Fix VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR in Windows 10/11

The VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR is a common Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) issue on Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices. This error code signifies a failure in the DirectX graphics kernel subsystem and is usually related to graphics drivers or video hardware malfunctions. If you’re encountering this frustrating issue, rest assured — it’s fixable with a methodical approach.

Below, we provide a step-by-step guide for troubleshooting and resolving the VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR, so you can get your system back up and running smoothly.

Understanding the Cause of VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR

This error typically occurs due to one or more of the following reasons:

• Corrupted or outdated graphics drivers
• Hardware incompatibility
• Faulty system files
• Overclocking of GPU or system instability
• Issues with DirectX components

Before diving into solutions, it’s crucial to ensure you have created a system restore point. This allows you to undo any unintended consequences during the troubleshooting process.

1. Update or Reinstall Your Graphics Driver

The leading cause of this error is defective or outdated GPU drivers. Follow these steps to resolve it:

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Display adapters section.
3. Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver.
4. Choose “Search automatically for drivers” or download the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel).
5. Alternatively, uninstall the driver by selecting Uninstall device, then restart your system. Windows will attempt to reinstall the correct driver.

If updating doesn’t solve the issue, consider performing a clean driver installation using tools like Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU).

2. Run Windows System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can trigger the VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR. Use system tools to scan and repair these files:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:
   
   sfc /scannow
3. Wait while the process completes. If SFC finds and repairs errors, restart your device.
4. If the issue persists, run DISM with the following commands:
   
   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands will ensure your Windows system image is healthy and all files are in place.

3. Check for Windows Updates

Sometimes Microsoft releases patches and updates that address system instability and driver compatibility:

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. Install any available updates and restart your PC.

Keeping your operating system updated is essential for maintaining overall system health.

4. Scan for Malware or Viruses

Malware infections may interfere with system files or graphics drivers, resulting in fatal errors. Run a full system scan using:

• Windows Defender (built-in)
• Malwarebytes or another reputable third-party antivirus program

Make sure your antivirus definitions are up to date before performing the scan.

5. Disable Hardware Acceleration or Overclocking

Overclocking your GPU can boost performance but might also lead to instability. If you’ve recently overclocked your GPU, revert it to factory settings using utilities like:

• MSI Afterburner
• EVGA Precision X

Additionally, disable hardware acceleration in apps like browsers and video players:

1. Open the app (e.g., Chrome).
2. Go to Settings > Advanced > System.
3. Turn off “Use hardware acceleration when available”.

6. Reset or Reinstall DirectX

Since this error code is directly tied to the DirectX Graphics Kernel, reinstalling or updating DirectX can help:

1. Press Windows + R, type dxdiag, and hit Enter.
2. Check the version of DirectX installed on your system.
3. If necessary, download the latest version from the official Microsoft website.
4. To forcibly re-register DirectX components, open Command Prompt as Administrator and enter:
   
   dism.exe /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth

Keep in mind that on modern Windows versions, DirectX is an integrated system component and cannot be fully uninstalled. However, performing system repair via DISM and SFC often fixes damaged components.

7. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot helps diagnose if a third-party service or application is causing conflicts:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig and hit Enter.
2. Under the Services tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services” and click Disable all.
3. Go to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
4. Disable all startup applications.
5. Restart your PC and observe if the problem occurs.

If the issue resolves, gradually re-enable services and programs to identify the culprit.

8. Run Hardware Diagnostics

Defective hardware can also be behind this fatal error. It’s wise to run hardware diagnostics:

• Use Windows Memory Diagnostic to check your RAM:
  1. Search for Windows Memory Diagnostic in the Start menu.
  2. Select “Restart now and check for problems”.
• Run GPU stress tests using tools like:
  • FurMark
  • Heaven Benchmark

If crashes occur during the test, this may indicate failing hardware that needs attention or replacement.

9. Restore System or Use System Recovery

If recent changes to your system triggered the error, consider restoring your computer to a previous restore point:

1. Go to Control Panel > Recovery.
2. Select Open System Restore and follow the instructions to pick a restore point before the issue began.

Alternatively, use the Windows built-in Reset this PC option under Settings > System > Recovery to reinstall Windows while keeping your files.

Final Thoughts

The VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR may seem daunting, but in most cases, it’s a symptom of software-level issues like outdated drivers or misconfigured settings. By methodically working through the steps provided above, most users can diagnose and resolve the error without resorting to drastic measures like hardware replacement or full system reinstalls.

If you’ve tried all the steps and still face the issue, it may be time to consult a professional technician or contact Microsoft Support, especially if your system is under warranty.

Stay vigilant, keep your system updated, and always back up important files — it’s the best long-term defense against BSODs and system errors.