Last Updated On : Sep 27, 2022.

Causes and Fixes for the Fatal Error on Windows 10/11

While working on the computer, you may encounter different errors. Many of them are denoted by a number and a short description of the problem. One of them is the ‘Fatal Error: Unhandled xxx Exception at xxx.’ At first glance, you may be unable to find the meaning of this error message. Windows users most commonly encounter this problem. In most cases, these errors are temporary. However, their persistence may indicate an underlying hardware or software issue. If you are facing this error and do not know what to do about it, read this entire post. Here you’ll find out everything from the appearance of this error and causes to fixes.

 

What Does a Fatal Error Signify?

The main intention of this error code is to shut your entire operating system abruptly. If you encounter these less severe errors, it will only cause a single program to close. But more severe ones will have you staring at the blue screen of death or BSOD in your Windows system. Also known as operating system error code, the error warns you about a problem in your operating system. For software developers, the arrival of this error message means they must find and fix an internal issue.

One of the highly popular fatal system errors you will see will read: ‘STOP: c000021a {Fatal System Error}.’ Further, you will see a message that tells about an unexpected termination of your Windows Logon Process system. You will also find a line prompting you to connect with your system administrator or a technical support team.

 

Why Do You Encounter Fatal Error in Your System?

After knowing what is Fatal Error‘ you must also get familiar with its major triggers. This error is a result of the exception generated by a program that faces something unexpected. That’s why this error can also be called a Fatal Exception Error. Here are the primary factors that cause it to happen.

• Your hardware drivers are corrupt.
• An instance of hardware failure can also result in this error.
• Bad or invalid registry keys.
• Improper installation of the Windows service pack.
• A problem with the Power Supply Unit
• Missing or corrupted system files.
• Improper working of the Windows System Restore.

 

Preliminary Troubleshooting for the Fatal Error

One of the quickest methods to fix this error is to search for it. It’s important for you to know the cause of this error. Here are some methods to look for it.

• This error contains a two-character code. Does the error contain ‘OE’? You can integrate it into your search for this error on the internet.
• You may find a pointer in the error message. For example, 0028:c001:e36. This can come in the search. But you can remove it from your search if you are getting no search results.
• Often, a VXD file creates this error. This file can be present in various fatal exception errors. You can include it in your search if your error has a .VXD file reference.

 

How Do I Fix a Fatal Error If Preliminary Troubleshooting Doesn’t Work

A bunch of unpredictable interactions between drivers and programs results in result in fatal errors. So, how do you fix it? Just go by the measures described here.

 

1. Examine for software patches

Developers of software programs release updates or patches periodically. It’s possible that you can resolve the problem in your OS with a software update. You can either install the update automatically or manually.

You can also connect with the program’s creator to find available updates.

 

2. Keep your drivers current or roll them back

It’s essential to keep hardware drivers updated. It is especially true if you encounter a Fatal Error while printing.

Head to the ‘Device Manager’ and opt for the ‘Update Driver’ option. However, if you are already using the latest version, roll it back to the earlier one. It’s possible that the old drivers were without any glitches and the cause of the issue is an automatic update.

• Launch the ‘Device Manager.’
• Now, right-tap on the device’s name and select ‘Properties.’
• Hit the ‘Roll Back Driver’ button on the ‘Driver‘ tab.
• Confirm this action by choosing ‘Yes.’
• Restart your computer.

 

3. Substitute corrupt system files

Corrupted system files often result in this error. Follow this procedure to replace them.

• Open another system that runs on your Windows version.
• If you are using Windows 10, you must find a system that runs on the same Windows version.
• Tap ‘File Explorer and head to ‘C:\Windows\System32.’
• Locate ‘dll,’ ‘winlogon,’ and ‘Userinit.exe‘ files.
• Copy these files and launch the same directory on the system.
• Now paste these files, so they substitute the corrupt ones.

 

4. Fix the Fatal Error resulting from the hard drive

This option is for those who know this error has come from the hard drive. In this case, you should use the CHKDSK utility.

• Launch the Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Now input ‘chkdsk*:/f’ in the prompt field.
• Press the Enter key.
• This utility will automatically run. Till it works, you must wait patiently.
• After that, examine if the issue has been resolved.

 

5. Get rid of temporary files

Many files get saved when programs run. Although they get saved, they are not deleted when you close the program. These files get corrupt and result in numerous fatal exception errors. Moreover, they also consume much of your disk space.  To delete them, bring up the search or run box and input ‘%temp%.’ You’ll now view the temp folder. All you’ve to do is select all the files and folders. Delete all of them and head to the Recycle Bin area. Choose to empty the entire bin. Now, you won’t find the fatal exception error.

 

6. Reset your system to factory default

Sometimes, an overlocked part of your computer is the significant cause of this error. In this instance, you must reset your computer to the original or factory default configuration.

• In your Windows 11 system, click ‘Settings.’
• Go to ‘Recovery‘ in the ‘System‘ menu.
• Tap ‘Reset PC.’
• Now, select how you want to reinstall Windows 11.
• Tap ‘Next‘ after approving the settings.
• Hit ‘Reset‘ one final time and wait for your system to reset to the original settings.

 

7. Examine your RAM

This specific error can also be an outcome of faulty RAM. In such a case, you must replace the faulty components. To check the RAM for problems, use the process described below.

• In the search box, input’ windows memory diagnostic.’
• Now, hit on its result.
• Next, choose ‘Restart now and check for problems’ option.
• The Windows Memory Diagnostic will automatically work. It will display the results after you sign in.

 

8. Find out if you have sufficient hard disk space

Inadequate hard disk space hinders the Windows swap file from growing. It, in turn, causes this error. So, it is imperative to examine the space you have in your hard drive.  You can find the space via the command prompt. Just type in this command ‘wmic logicaldisk get size, freespace, caption.’ Alternatively, you can also use a free storage analyzer tool. There are many such tools available online. Some of the best ones are

• Disk Savvy
• Windows Directory Statistics
• JDiskReport

These tools scan your entire system and give you a report that contains everything that’s taking up the disk space.

 

9. Carry out a Cloud reset

If you are still wondering how do I fix a fatal error, it’s time to do a cloud reset. This procedure downloads a new image from the Cloud rather than using the current files on your machine. Here is the method perform it.

• Launch ‘Settings‘ and find the ‘Windows Update’ option.
• Head to the ‘Advanced Options’ area.
• Now, select the ‘Recovery‘ tab.
• Hit the ‘Reset PC’ button.
• Choose any option between ‘Keep my files‘ or ‘Remove everything.’
• Now select ‘Cloud Download.’
• Finally, choose ‘Reset.’

 

10. Delete the offending program

Many people would remember when they first encountered a fatal exception error. It can be after you install a driver or an application. If you remember the last software or program you updated, it means it is causing this error. You can quickly solve it by disabling the buggy program.

• Open the ‘Run‘ dialog box on your screen.
• Here, type ‘appwiz.cpl.’
• Click ‘OK.’
• In order to locate the recent installation, tap on the ‘Installed On’ column.
• Right-tap on the application and pick ‘Uninstall.’

 

Summing up

Now there’s no need to worry whenever you find the fatal exception error message. The methods described above have helped numerous people in fixing this error. You can use one according to the specific cause and start the troubleshooting. If you require some more assistance, contact an expert WordPress Support team.

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