The 'Page Failed in Nonpaged Area' error is a common issue that Windows users encounter, often leading to frustrating blue screens of death (BSOD). This error is indicative of system memory problems or corrupted system files, and it can disrupt your work and require immediate attention. Fortunately, there are easy solutions to troubleshoot and fix this error. In this guide, we will delve into the common causes of this error, various methods to resolve it, and tips to prevent it from occurring again.
Understanding the 'Page Failed in Nonpaged Area' Error
The 'Page Failed in Nonpaged Area' error essentially means that Windows cannot access a required page in the nonpaged area of memory. This nonpaged area is where critical data needed by the operating system is stored, which cannot be swapped to the disk. When your system encounters this error, it typically results in a BSOD, causing your computer to reboot unexpectedly.
Common Causes of the Error
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Corrupted System Files: Files essential for Windows to operate may become corrupted due to malware, system crashes, or improper shutdowns.
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Faulty Drivers: Outdated, incompatible, or corrupt device drivers can lead to system instability and trigger the BSOD.
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Hardware Issues: Failing hardware components, particularly RAM (Random Access Memory), can cause this error. Memory issues might stem from physical damage or incorrect BIOS settings.
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Malware and Viruses: Malicious software can cause significant damage to system files, leading to various errors, including this BSOD.
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Overclocking: Overclocking your CPU or GPU can create instability, resulting in system errors.
Easy Solutions to Fix the Error
Now that we understand what causes the 'Page Failed in Nonpaged Area' error, let’s explore various solutions to resolve it.
1. Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart can solve temporary glitches within the system. While this might not resolve the root cause, it's the first step to try.
2. Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool
If you suspect memory issues, use the built-in Windows Memory Diagnostic tool to check for RAM problems.
- Press
Windows + R
, typemdsched.exe
, and hit Enter. - Choose to restart and check for problems.
- The tool will run during the next boot and report any issues.
3. Update Device Drivers
Outdated or corrupt drivers can lead to BSOD errors. Follow these steps to update your drivers:
- Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand categories and right-click on each device to select Update driver.
- Follow the prompts to search automatically for updated driver software.
4. Check for Corrupted System Files
Use the System File Checker (SFC) tool to check and repair corrupted system files:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type
sfc /scannow
and press Enter. - The scan may take some time; allow it to complete and follow any instructions.
5. Perform a Disk Check
A disk check can identify and fix disk errors that might lead to the BSOD.
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type
chkdsk C: /f /r
(replace C: with your main drive letter). - You will need to reboot your computer for the disk check to take place.
6. Uninstall Recently Installed Software or Drivers
If the error started occurring after installing new software or hardware, uninstall it to see if that resolves the issue.
- Go to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a Program.
- Select the suspicious program and click on Uninstall.
7. Disable Fast Startup
Fast Startup can sometimes cause issues. To disable it, follow these steps:
- Go to Control Panel > Power Options.
- Select Choose what the power buttons do.
- Click on Change settings that are currently unavailable.
- Uncheck the box next to Turn on fast startup and click Save changes.
8. Restore Windows to a Previous State
If the issue persists, consider restoring your computer to an earlier point before the error began occurring.
- Type "System Restore" in the Start menu search and select Create a restore point.
- Click on the System Restore button.
- Follow the wizard to choose a restore point and start the restoration process.
9. Check for Malware
Run a full scan using Windows Defender or a reputable third-party antivirus program. Remove any detected threats.
10. Check Your Hardware
If none of the above solutions work, consider checking your hardware components, especially RAM.
- Reseat your RAM sticks to ensure they are properly connected.
- If you have multiple sticks of RAM, test each one individually to identify any faulty modules.
11. Update Windows
Ensure your operating system is up to date, as Microsoft frequently releases patches to fix known issues.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click on Check for updates.
12. Adjust Virtual Memory Settings
If your virtual memory settings are set too low, it might cause this error. To adjust them:
- Right-click on This PC and select Properties.
- Click on Advanced system settings and go to the Advanced tab.
- Under Performance, click on Settings.
- Go to the Advanced tab and click on Change under Virtual Memory.
- Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.
- Set a custom size and ensure the initial and maximum sizes are set to the same value (at least 1.5 times your RAM).
Important Notes
“If you still encounter the 'Page Failed in Nonpaged Area' error after trying all these solutions, consider consulting a professional technician for assistance. Hardware issues may require advanced diagnostics and repairs.”
Preventing Future Errors
To prevent the 'Page Failed in Nonpaged Area' error from recurring, consider the following preventive measures:
- Regularly update your operating system and drivers.
- Perform routine maintenance, including disk checks and system file scans.
- Use reputable antivirus software to protect against malware.
- Avoid overclocking your hardware components.
- Keep backup copies of your important files and system settings.
Conclusion
The 'Page Failed in Nonpaged Area' error can be concerning, but with the right steps, it is often easy to fix. By understanding its causes and following the troubleshooting solutions provided, you can restore your system to optimal performance. Remember to implement preventive measures to mitigate the risk of encountering this issue in the future. If you continue to experience problems, do not hesitate to seek professional assistance to get your system back on track.