In this tutorial, learn how to fix DPC Watchdog Violation (stop code DPC_Watchdog_Violation) error in Windows 10 or Windows 8.1/8.
DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION blue screen of death error on Windows 10
If you’re using Windows computer, especially Windows 10 and Windows 8/8.1, you could find out about the DPC Watchdog Violation error because it has been getting one of the most frequent problems within the Windows platform.
Let me explain first What is DPC Watchdog Violation error? And what causes DPC Watchdog Violation in Windows 10/8/7?
The DPC Watchdog Violation error (stop code DPC_Watchdog_Violation, has a bug check value of 0x00000133) is a common problem in the Windows operating system. DPC stands for Deferred Procedure Call. Watchdog refers to the bug checker, which often monitors or track your computer performance and your Windows programs. When you get the Violation message, your bug checker is overwhelmed. Probably because your system is stuck at an interrupt request level (IRQL) of DISPATCH_LEVEL or a DPC is running too long a time. It’s occurred due to a few specific reasons like your device drivers are outdated or installed wrong, system files are corrupted, or hardware incompatibility issues.
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If you’re facing the DPC Watchdog Violation error appearing on your screen, this tutorial is helpful for you.
How To Fix DPC Watchdog Violation Blue Screen of Death in Windows 10/8/7
First Thing First:
In order to fix the DPC Watchdog Violation error, you need to be logged in Windows to try a few methods. However, if you’re not able to start your computer normally, power on and off your computer 3 times to perform a hard reboot and start Windows in Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking, then try any of these methods below.
Method 1. Update SATA ACHI controller driver
According to users, this is the most effective way to get rid of the DPC Watchdog Violation error. Hence I would recommend you try it first:
Step 1. Press Windows Key + R then type devmgmt.msc in the Run dialog box and click OK.
Step 2. When Device Manager window opens, locate IDE ATA/ATAPI Controllers and expand it. Then right-click SATA ACHI controller and click Properties.
Step 3. Go to the Driver tab and then click Driver Details.
If you’re seeing storachi.sys listed here, it means you’ve selected the correct controller. Go to method 2 for more help.
If not, you need to update SATA ACHI controller driver.
Step 4. Go to the Driver tab and then click Update Driver…
Step 5. Click Browse my computer for driver software > Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer.
Step 6. Click Standard SATA AHCI Controller and then click Next. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.
Step 7. Restart your computer and then check if the problem has resolved.
Method 2: Update available drivers
Sometimes, corrupted or outdated device drivers can cause DPC Watchdog Violation error. In this case, you need to verify that all your devices have the right and latest drivers, and update those that don’t. You can update your drivers manually by visiting the manufacturer’s website and finding the most recent correct driver. If you don’t computer skills to update your drivers manually, I suggest you do it automatically with Driver Talent.
- Download and install Driver Talent (Free Driver Updater Tool).
- Run Driver Talent and click the Scan button. Driver Talent will then scan your PC and check any problem drivers.
- Click Update button to automatically download and install the correct version of all the drivers that are missing or out of date on your computer.
Method 3. Check Corrupted System Files
Corrupted system files may cause many technical issues, including the DPC_Watchdog_Violation error. Hence in order to fix this error, you should check and make sure that Windows system files are not corrupted. To do that, follow these steps below:
Step 1. Open the Command Prompt as Administrator.
Step 2. When Command Prompt window opens, type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
Step 3. Click Y and press Enter. Then restart your computer.
Your Windows computer will be rebooted and then start to verify the system files.
Note: It might take some time to complete. Don’t turn off the computer while it’s verifying and checking.
Method 4. Check Corrupted System Files
You should be able to fix the DPC Watchdog Violation error by scanning and fixing Windows system files.
Step 1. Open the Command Prompt program as an administrator.
Step 2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and then tap Enter:
sfc /scannow
The sfc /scannow command will automatically scan and fix all errors in your Windows system.
Step 3. Wait until the process is completed and then restart your computer.
Method 5. Run Event Viewer
Using Event Viewer, you might be able to detect the culprit driver or device that is causing you the DPC Watchdog Violation blue screen error.
Step 1. Press Windows Key + R then put eventvwr.msc in the Run dialog box and click OK. The Event Viewer will be opened.
Step 2. On the left side of the panel, go to Windows Logs > System.
Step 3. In the middle part of the panel, you look at the ones marked by Warning or Error and then you should be able to see and diagnose what is the cause that stands behind this BSOD error.
Based on the result, you will know which is the reason for the DPC_Watchdog_Violation error. And now, it’s easier to search for a right method to troubleshoot.
Hope something helps you.
