# 1-866-411-9244 How to Fix Norton Blue Screen Error | BSOD Error
The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is one of the most dreaded experiences for computer users. It indicates a severe system error that leads to system crashes, typically requiring a restart. Among the various causes of BSOD, antivirus software, particularly Norton, can be a common culprit. This article aims to help you understand the Norton BSOD error, its causes, and comprehensive steps to fix it effectively.
**Table of Contents**
**Understanding the BSOD Error**
What is BSOD?
Common BSOD Error Codes
Norton-Related BSOD Error Messages
**Causes of Norton BSOD Errors**
Software Conflicts
Outdated Drivers
Corrupted Norton Installation
System File Corruption
Malware and Viruses
**How to Troubleshoot and Fix Norton BSOD Errors**
Basic Troubleshooting Steps
Restart Your Computer
Check Hardware Connections
Update Norton
Uninstall and Reinstall Norton
Use Windows Safe Mode
Check for Driver Updates
Run Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool
Perform a System File Check
Use Windows Recovery Environment
Disable Automatic Restart on System Failure
Repair Windows Installation
**Advanced Solutions for Norton BSOD Errors**
Use System Restore
Check Event Viewer Logs
Clean Boot Windows
Use Third-Party Tools
Contact Norton Support
**Preventing Norton BSOD Errors**
Regular System Maintenance
Keeping Software Updated
Regular Malware Scans
**Conclusion**
**Understanding the BSOD Error**
**What is BSOD?**
The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is an error screen displayed by Microsoft Windows operating systems upon encountering a fatal system error. This error signifies that the operating system has reached a condition where it can no longer operate safely, leading to a system crash. When a BSOD occurs, the system halts and presents an error message indicating the problem.
**Common BSOD Error Codes**
BSOD errors can come with various codes, each indicating specific issues. Some common BSOD error codes related to Norton and antivirus software include:
**IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL:** This error often points to issues with drivers or memory.
**PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA:** This indicates a problem with the RAM or hard drive.
**SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION:** This can be caused by incompatible drivers or software.
**Norton-Related BSOD Error Messages**
When Norton Antivirus is involved, you might encounter specific error messages during a BSOD, such as:
"Norton Antivirus Driver has failed"
"Norton Security has encountered a problem"
These messages can help identify the role Norton plays in the BSOD.
**Causes of Norton BSOD Errors**
Understanding the causes of BSOD errors can significantly aid in troubleshooting and resolution. Here are some common causes specifically related to Norton:
**Software Conflicts**
Sometimes, conflicts between Norton and other installed software can lead to BSOD errors. This is especially true for other security software that may interfere with Norton’s operations.
**Outdated Drivers**
Outdated or incompatible drivers can also lead to BSOD errors. If the drivers for your hardware components (like graphics or network cards) are outdated, they might conflict with Norton or other software, causing system instability.
**Corrupted Norton Installation**
If your Norton installation is corrupted or incomplete, it may cause BSOD errors. A faulty installation can lead to improper functioning of the antivirus software, resulting in conflicts with the operating system.
**System File Corruption**
Corrupted system files can also lead to BSOD errors. These files are crucial for the operating system’s functionality, and if they are damaged, it can cause the system to crash.
**Malware and Viruses**
Ironically, malware or viruses can disable or interfere with your antivirus software, including Norton. If your system is infected, it may lead to BSOD errors as the malware tries to bypass or disrupt the security measures in place.
**How to Troubleshoot and Fix Norton BSOD Errors**
If you encounter a BSOD error related to Norton, follow these troubleshooting steps to identify and fix the issue.
**Basic Troubleshooting Steps**
**Restart Your Computer**
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches that may cause BSOD errors. If you encounter a BSOD, restart your computer and see if the issue persists.
**Check Hardware Connections**
Loose or damaged hardware connections can lead to system instability. Check the connections of your hard drive, RAM, and any external devices to ensure everything is securely connected.
**Update Norton**
Ensure that your Norton antivirus software is up to date. Follow these steps:
Open Norton Antivirus.
Click on "LiveUpdate" to check for updates.
Install any available updates and restart your computer.
**Uninstall and Reinstall Norton**
If updating doesn’t resolve the issue, try uninstalling and reinstalling Norton:
Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter.
Find Norton Antivirus in the list, right-click, and select "Uninstall."
Follow the prompts to remove Norton completely.
Visit the Norton website to download and install the latest version.
**Use Windows Safe Mode**
Booting your computer in Safe Mode can help troubleshoot BSOD errors. Safe Mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services, which can help isolate the problem.
Restart your computer.
During startup, press F8 (or Shift + F8) before the Windows logo appears.
Select "Safe Mode" from the boot options.
Once in Safe Mode, try to uninstall or update Norton.
**Check for Driver Updates**
Outdated drivers can cause conflicts leading to BSOD errors. Follow these steps to update your drivers:
Press Windows + X and select "Device Manager."
Expand the categories to find the devices.
Right-click on each device and select "Update Driver."
Choose "Search automatically for updated driver software."
**Run Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool**
A faulty RAM can lead to BSOD errors. To check your RAM, use the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool:
Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
Choose "Restart now and check for problems."
Follow the prompts to diagnose your memory.
**Perform a System File Check**
Corrupted system files can lead to BSOD errors. Use the System File Checker (SFC) to scan and repair these files:
Press Windows + X and select "Command Prompt (Admin)."
Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
Wait for the process to complete and follow any instructions.
Use Windows Recovery Environment
If the BSOD persists, you may need to access the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE):
Restart your computer and repeatedly press F8 (or Shift + F8).
Select "Repair your computer."
Choose "Troubleshoot" and then "Advanced options."
From here, you can perform a startup repair or restore your system to a previous point.
**Disable Automatic Restart on System Failure**
Disabling the automatic restart can help you identify the error code displayed on the BSOD:
Right-click on "This PC" and select "Properties."
Click on "Advanced system settings."
In the Startup and Recovery section, click on "Settings."
Uncheck "Automatically restart" and click OK.
**Repair Windows Installation**
If none of the above methods work, you might need to repair your Windows installation:
Insert your Windows installation media (USB or DVD).
Boot from the installation media.
Select "Repair your computer."
Follow the prompts to repair your Windows installation.
**Advanced Solutions for Norton BSOD Errors**
If basic troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, consider these advanced solutions:
**Use System Restore**
System Restore can help revert your system to a previous state where Norton was functioning correctly:
Press Windows + R, type rstrui.exe, and press Enter.
Follow the prompts to choose a restore point and complete the process.
**Check Event Viewer Logs**
The Event Viewer can provide insight into what caused the BSOD:
Press Windows + X and select "Event Viewer."
Expand "Windows Logs" and select "System."
Look for error messages that correspond to the time of the BSOD.
**Clean Boot Windows**
A clean boot can help identify if background services or applications are causing the issue:
Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
Check "Hide all Microsoft services" and click "Disable all."
Go to the Startup tab and click "Open Task Manager."
Disable all startup items and restart your computer.
**Use Third-Party Tools**
Consider using third-party tools for deep scanning and repairs. Tools like Revo Uninstaller can help remove leftover files and registry entries from uninstalled programs, including Norton.
**Contact Norton Support**
If the issue persists, it may be time to contact Norton Support for assistance. They can provide more specific solutions and troubleshooting steps based on your situation.
Toll-Free Support Number: 1-866-411-9244
**Preventing Norton BSOD Errors**
Taking proactive measures can help prevent BSOD errors in the future:
**Regular System Maintenance**
Perform regular maintenance on your computer, including:
Disk cleanup
Defragmentation (for HDDs)
Regular backups
**Keeping Software Updated**
Always keep your software, including Windows and Norton, updated to the latest versions. Updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can prevent issues.
**Regular Malware Scans**
Run regular malware scans to ensure your system is clean. Norton can perform automatic scans, but consider additional scans with tools like Malwarebytes for extra protection.
**Conclusion**
The Norton BSOD error can be frustrating, but understanding its causes and implementing effective troubleshooting methods can help you resolve the issue. Whether through basic troubleshooting steps or advanced solutions, following this guide will help restore stability to your system. If all else fails, don't hesitate to reach out to Norton Support for further assistance. Remember, maintaining your computer and software will go a long way in preventing future BSOD errors.