How to Get Rid of the Evil Blue Screen

The Blue Screen of Death can be a sign that your computer has crashed.

When that cobalt blue screen overtakes your computer and freezes what you were working on, it can be very frustrating. This often-called Blue Screen of Death is the error screen displayed by Microsoft Windows. The screen appears when a serious system error occurs that the computer cannot self repair. While annoying to us, the screen is actually a preventative measure to avoid damage to the computer. While the blue screen can signal a more chronic problem, it also may just arise from a one-time error.

Instructions

1. Reboot the computer by clicking the "Restart" button or pushing the On/Off switch on your PC's case. This action itself can solve many blue screen occurrences, however some data may be lost, especially unsaved items.

2. Check the Windows registry. The registry is a vital database file that contains all data, hardware and software configurations that are installed on the computer. Some elements may become corrupted leading to the blue screen. Install a registry cleaner program and run a scan. Follow the instruction to clean up and repair registry errors.

3. Run a virus scan that will search the computer for viruses, adware and spyware that may have caused the blue screen.

4. Uninstall problematic programs. If the blue screen only appears when a certain program is running, there may be only a problem or incompatibility with that specific program. Open the "Start" menu, click on the "Control Panel" and open "Add/Remove Programs." Delete the program and reinstall if necessary with any available updates.

5. Remove hardware that may be causing the blue screen because of incompatibility issues. Power down the computer, remove all cables, open the case and remove the hardware by unscrewing any screws securing it in place and pulling it from the computer.

6. Reset the system with System Restore. When the computer logo appears after booting, quickly press "Ctrl" and "F11" at the same time. This will restore factory settings. You will need to reinstall everything on your computer using the original installation discs.

Tips & Warnings

• If you cannot resolve the blue screen yourself, consult a computer technician.

• Make sure that all important data is backed up. Data may be lost during computer repairs.

References

• The Gemini Geek: How to Get Rid of Blue Screen of Death
• Programmers Heaven: Get Rid of Dangerous Blue Screen of Death