Fix: Windows Vista 64-bit Gets Blue Screen After Windows Updates

A recent Windows Update (KB973879) has been causing a “blue screen of death” (stop error) in many computers running Windows Vista 64-bit edition.  Many of the affected computers are HP Pavillion dv Series laptops (such as dv4 and dv6 models), but we have had reports of other manufactures having the same issues.  The problem occurs shortly after starting the computer.

The specific error is:

A problem has been detected and Windows has been shut down to prevent damage to your computer.

Technical information:

*** STOP: 0x0000007E (0xFFFFFFFFC0000005, 0xFFFFF800020393AA, 0xFFFFFA60021EE7D8, 0xFFFFFA60021EE1b0)

hp-bsod

So far, we have found two methods to fix this problem.  Try the first method (using Safe Mode), and if that doesn’t work try the second method (using System Restore).

Method 1 (Safe Mode)

Step 1: Restart your computer and continuously tap the F8 key while it is restarting.  You will eventually see the ‘Advanced Boot Options’ screen, where you need to select the Safe Mode option.

hp-bsod-safemode

Step 2: Click the Start Menu and type Programs and Features in the search box.  Press enter when the Programs and Features option is selected.

hp-bsod-startmenu

Step 3: Select View installed updates in the top left of the window.

hp-bsod-viewupdates

Step 4: Locate Update for Microsoft Windows (KB973879) in the list of updates.  You can sort by name for easier searching by clicking the Name column.  Click Uninstall at the top of the list.

hp-bsod-uninstall

Step 5: Click Restart Now.  Your computer should now function properly.  If not, try Method 2 below.

Method 2 (System Restore)

Step 1: Restart your computer and continuously tap the F8 key while it is restarting.  You will eventually see the ‘Advanced Boot Options’ screen, where you need to select the Repair Your Computer option.

hp-bsod-repair

Step 2: Select your keyboard layout, which will typically be ‘US’.

hp-bsod-keyboard

Step 3: Enter your username and password.  If you have no password, just click OK.

hp-bsod-username

Step 4: Click System Restore in the System Recovery Options menu.  This may take a few minutes to launch so be patient.

hp-bsod-restore

Step 5: When the System Restore window opens, click Next.  Select the most recent system backup and click Next.

hp-bsod-restoreupdate

Step 6: Make sure your main drive is selected (most likely C:) and click Next.  Click Finish in the next screen.  Click Yes to the warning dialog.

hp-bsod-selectdrive

Step 7: When the restore has finished, you shoud receive a successful completion message.  Click the Restart button.

Step 8: When your computer  has restarted, click the Start Menu and type Programs and Features in the search box.  Press enter when the Programs and Features option is selected.

hp-bsod-startmenu

Step 9: Select View installed updates in the top left of the window.

hp-bsod-viewupdates

Step 10: Locate Update for Microsoft Windows (KB973879) in the list of updates.  You can sort by name for easier searching by clicking the Name column.  Click Uninstall at the top of the list.

hp-bsod-uninstall

Step 11: Click Restart Now.  Your computer should now function properly.

Have you experienced this problem?  Tell us about it (including the model of computer you have) in the comments.


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Comments

279 responses to “Fix: Windows Vista 64-bit Gets Blue Screen After Windows Updates”

  1. @hubcaphalo Avatar

    I know we don't know each other, but I may just love you. Seriously, thank you so much for this. And for making it simple, unlike most tech help boards.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      You are welcome! You weren't the only one with this problem, here's what our office looked like tonight: http://twitpic.com/fez9a

  2. @hubcaphalo Avatar

    I know we don't know each other, but I may just love you. Seriously, thank you so much for this. And for making it simple, unlike most tech help boards.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      You are welcome! You weren't the only one with this problem, here's what our office looked like tonight: http://twitpic.com/fez9a

  3. Michaela Avatar
    Michaela

    This happened to me yesterday! On monday, my HP Dv 4 did its automatic update and then shut down. 6 hours later, I turned it on, it started up normally, I logged in, and then 2 seconds later I got that blue screen. This laptop is brand new- I've only had it for 3 days- so I was freaking out. Plus, I have never gotten that blue screen before. So today I went back to Staples, which is where I bought it from, and I am having them fix the problem. I am now worried though, because when I called to check on my laptop, they said they were now doing updates. Am I going to get the same problem again?? I wonder if I should print this out and just give it to them or something. This is so frustrating, but I am so glad its not the laptop and just the updates. Thank you so much!!!!

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      I've seen replies from Microsoft techs and it appears that they are aware of the problem, so hopefully they stop pushing the automatic updates.

      If not, you can temporarily set your Windows Updates to prompt before installing, just go to Start –> Control Panel, type "Update" in the search box, click "Turn automatic updating on or off", then select "Check for updates but let me choose whether to download and install them".

      Glad we could be of help!

  4. Michaela Avatar
    Michaela

    This happened to me yesterday! On monday, my HP Dv 4 did its automatic update and then shut down. 6 hours later, I turned it on, it started up normally, I logged in, and then 2 seconds later I got that blue screen. This laptop is brand new- I've only had it for 3 days- so I was freaking out. Plus, I have never gotten that blue screen before. So today I went back to Staples, which is where I bought it from, and I am having them fix the problem. I am now worried though, because when I called to check on my laptop, they said they were now doing updates. Am I going to get the same problem again?? I wonder if I should print this out and just give it to them or something. This is so frustrating, but I am so glad its not the laptop and just the updates. Thank you so much!!!!

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      I've seen replies from Microsoft techs and it appears that they are aware of the problem, so hopefully they stop pushing the automatic updates.

      If not, you can temporarily set your Windows Updates to prompt before installing, just go to Start –> Control Panel, type "Update" in the search box, click "Turn automatic updating on or off", then select "Check for updates but let me choose whether to download and install them".

      Glad we could be of help!

  5. doug Avatar
    doug

    hey man you are the best…another forum linked you, but i found it based on the memory.dump errors…thanks so much for this, wasn't looking forward to the fight with HP over a one month old Dv6 1245

  6. doug Avatar
    doug

    hey man you are the best…another forum linked you, but i found it based on the memory.dump errors…thanks so much for this, wasn't looking forward to the fight with HP over a one month old Dv6 1245

  7. Barb Avatar
    Barb

    After purchasing the DV6-1245 a week ago, I freaked out when I found the blue screen yesterday after booting the laptop. This is the only place I have found with a possible solution. Will try to fix later this morning…THANK YOU SO MUCH for posting. Will let you know how it goes. I am a novice at this but your step by step directions are great. Microsoft is a joke and wanted to charge for helping me. Best Buy want to charge me as well. Very frustrating!!!! Thanks again….

  8. Barb Avatar
    Barb

    After purchasing the DV6-1245 a week ago, I freaked out when I found the blue screen yesterday after booting the laptop. This is the only place I have found with a possible solution. Will try to fix later this morning…THANK YOU SO MUCH for posting. Will let you know how it goes. I am a novice at this but your step by step directions are great. Microsoft is a joke and wanted to charge for helping me. Best Buy want to charge me as well. Very frustrating!!!! Thanks again….

  9. Matan Avatar
    Matan

    I have important question – if I'll install the SP 2 for Vista – this annoying update will be there too?

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      This update was released after SP2, so it may not be included when you install the update. If you install SP2 and do not encounter the problem, you can stop the specific KB973879 update by opening Windows Updates (accessible via control panel) and click "View Available Updates". Locate KB973879 in the list (if it exists), right click it, and select "Hide Update".

  10. Matan Avatar
    Matan

    I have important question – if I'll install the SP 2 for Vista – this annoying update will be there too?

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      This update was released after SP2, so it may not be included when you install the update. If you install SP2 and do not encounter the problem, you can stop the specific KB973879 update by opening Windows Updates (accessible via control panel) and click "View Available Updates". Locate KB973879 in the list (if it exists), right click it, and select "Hide Update".

  11. Zammo Avatar
    Zammo

    Thanks Evan. I have had the same problem on 3 Dell Inspiron 1545 laptops running 64 bit vita home premium. Both of your fixes are sound although also with the dell Inspiron range if you let the system reboot after the stop error and select the Windows startup repair option that will prompt you to restore your system to an earlier time and remove the problem too. Hiding update KB973879 in windows update then stabilises the systems. Many thanks again

  12. Zammo Avatar
    Zammo

    Thanks Evan. I have had the same problem on 3 Dell Inspiron 1545 laptops running 64 bit vita home premium. Both of your fixes are sound although also with the dell Inspiron range if you let the system reboot after the stop error and select the Windows startup repair option that will prompt you to restore your system to an earlier time and remove the problem too. Hiding update KB973879 in windows update then stabilises the systems. Many thanks again

  13. Barb Avatar
    Barb

    Hi Evan,
    Just used your fix (see post above) and it worked like a charm. Can't thank you enough for making this so easy. You saved me many hours of time and frustration. Also changed the setting to install updates when I tell it to. Saw the picture of your office…..hope it gets better! Thanks again.

  14. Barb Avatar
    Barb

    Hi Evan,
    Just used your fix (see post above) and it worked like a charm. Can't thank you enough for making this so easy. You saved me many hours of time and frustration. Also changed the setting to install updates when I tell it to. Saw the picture of your office…..hope it gets better! Thanks again.

  15. mark Avatar
    mark

    thank you so much! everything worked out great…:)

  16. mark Avatar
    mark

    thank you so much! everything worked out great…:)

  17. Guest Avatar
    Guest

    I have a dv4 and it worked. thank you

  18. Guest Avatar
    Guest

    I have a dv4 and it worked. thank you

  19. Tara Avatar
    Tara

    I have a new HP dv4 and I seem to be having the same problem after the auto updates, but I don't have the specific update you mention. I have KB970653, KB963707, and KB972036. Any idea which one is causing my troubles?

    1. John Avatar
      John

      If it is something like mine, it would be the KB970653. I have a dv6625 and that specific update got my pc suck in a loop.

  20. Tara Avatar
    Tara

    I have a new HP dv4 and I seem to be having the same problem after the auto updates, but I don't have the specific update you mention. I have KB970653, KB963707, and KB972036. Any idea which one is causing my troubles?

    1. John Avatar
      John

      If it is something like mine, it would be the KB970653. I have a dv6625 and that specific update got my pc suck in a loop.

  21. JCmx Avatar
    JCmx

    Hello Evan,
    I solved the problem yesterday afternoon but the update keeps been instaled when i shut down the computer so this morning i had reboot in safe mode again and redo the process again. is there anyway around this? Do you know if there will be a fix for this? Is Microsoft even aware of this problem?
    By the way, I have this updates KB970653 and KB973874.
    I have a new HP dv7-2185dx
    Thanks!
    JC

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Microsoft seems to be aware of the problem, but they haven't released any official information that I have seen yet.

      To make sure the update doesn't install, you can temporarily set your Windows Updates to prompt before installing. Just go to Start –> Control Panel, type "Update" in the search box, click "Turn automatic updating on or off", then select "Check for updates but let me choose whether to download and install them".

      You can also hide the specific KB973879 update by opening Windows Updates (accessible via control panel) and click "View Available Updates". Locate KB973879 in the list (if it exists), right click it, and select "Hide Update".

  22. JCmx Avatar
    JCmx

    Hello Evan,
    I solved the problem yesterday afternoon but the update keeps been instaled when i shut down the computer so this morning i had reboot in safe mode again and redo the process again. is there anyway around this? Do you know if there will be a fix for this? Is Microsoft even aware of this problem?
    By the way, I have this updates KB970653 and KB973874.
    I have a new HP dv7-2185dx
    Thanks!
    JC

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Microsoft seems to be aware of the problem, but they haven't released any official information that I have seen yet.

      To make sure the update doesn't install, you can temporarily set your Windows Updates to prompt before installing. Just go to Start –> Control Panel, type "Update" in the search box, click "Turn automatic updating on or off", then select "Check for updates but let me choose whether to download and install them".

      You can also hide the specific KB973879 update by opening Windows Updates (accessible via control panel) and click "View Available Updates". Locate KB973879 in the list (if it exists), right click it, and select "Hide Update".

  23. Bobszon Avatar
    Bobszon

    . I have a new Dell XPS 1640 P8600. It crashed immediately after I stopped any USB connected device. I used the icon to “Safely Remove Hardware,” selected the hardware, and stopped it. I then saw the “It is now safe to remove…” and clicked on the “OK” button. Crash & Burn. Three times with two different USB devices, a flash drive, and a card reader. As my PC was under warranty, I worked several hours with Dell Support, ultimately restoring to a point prior to the upload of the patches. I was pretty sure that was the problem and told the Dell Tech that but he wanted to go through his procedures anyway. Unfortunately, under his remote control, he successfully executed a roll-back and I was able to successfully stop my USB Devices. The PC then “Automatically” updated and downloaded the same four patches.

    1. Gozer Avatar
      Gozer

      I have a 3 week old Dell Optiplex 760 that emulates the exact same problem as you describe. My profile was also ganked as well, but it may be a separate problem. I’m on a new profile, on a domain. I just tried to install SP2 for Windows Vista. I’m using the Business version of Vista and within 5 seconds of starting the install I get the BSOD aka Blue Screen of Death with the message of Page Fault in no page area message on the blue screen of death. I’m going to try this and see what happens.

      1. owensg Avatar

        Hey, looks like we have the same problem. Mine was fixed by Method 1 on the USB issue and SP2.

    2. owensg Avatar

      I have Vista Business 64 bit installed on my New Dell Optiplex 760 and the USB BSoDeath happened to me to and I did not know how to fix it. I have not used the USB devices aka Thumb drive since. I have tried to install Vista SP2 and got the BSoDeath mentioned above. Within the BSofDeath message it states, "Page Fault in no page area" message on the BSofDeath, then it reboots. I will try these methods to remove the update and see what happens and report back.

      Ok, I have tried method1 and it works Beautifully. I SINCERELY thank you for Evan for the post. I have also disabled automatic updates. After that, I tried to install Vista SP2 for my Business version of Vista. It installed without a hitch, bump or belch. THANK YOU, THANK YOU , THANK YOU !!!!

  24. Bobszon Avatar
    Bobszon

    . I have a new Dell XPS 1640 P8600. It crashed immediately after I stopped any USB connected device. I used the icon to “Safely Remove Hardware,” selected the hardware, and stopped it. I then saw the “It is now safe to remove…” and clicked on the “OK” button. Crash & Burn. Three times with two different USB devices, a flash drive, and a card reader. As my PC was under warranty, I worked several hours with Dell Support, ultimately restoring to a point prior to the upload of the patches. I was pretty sure that was the problem and told the Dell Tech that but he wanted to go through his procedures anyway. Unfortunately, under his remote control, he successfully executed a roll-back and I was able to successfully stop my USB Devices. The PC then “Automatically” updated and downloaded the same four patches.

    1. Gozer Avatar
      Gozer

      I have a 3 week old Dell Optiplex 760 that emulates the exact same problem as you describe. My profile was also ganked as well, but it may be a separate problem. I’m on a new profile, on a domain. I just tried to install SP2 for Windows Vista. I’m using the Business version of Vista and within 5 seconds of starting the install I get the BSOD aka Blue Screen of Death with the message of Page Fault in no page area message on the blue screen of death. I’m going to try this and see what happens.

      1. owensg Avatar

        Hey, looks like we have the same problem. Mine was fixed by Method 1 on the USB issue and SP2.

    2. owensg Avatar

      I have Vista Business 64 bit installed on my New Dell Optiplex 760 and the USB BSoDeath happened to me to and I did not know how to fix it. I have not used the USB devices aka Thumb drive since. I have tried to install Vista SP2 and got the BSoDeath mentioned above. Within the BSofDeath message it states, "Page Fault in no page area" message on the BSofDeath, then it reboots. I will try these methods to remove the update and see what happens and report back.

      Ok, I have tried method1 and it works Beautifully. I SINCERELY thank you for Evan for the post. I have also disabled automatic updates. After that, I tried to install Vista SP2 for my Business version of Vista. It installed without a hitch, bump or belch. THANK YOU, THANK YOU , THANK YOU !!!!

  25. bobszon Avatar
    bobszon

    Does anyone know which or how many of the four actually caused the fault or should all four be removed?

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Windows Update KB973879 has been identified as the specific update causing the error, but it appears that some users may have experienced blue screens with other updates as well. I will post an update to this article if I identify any additional problematic updates.

      1. bobszon Avatar
        bobszon

        Thank You, Thank You, THANK YOU! I also shared similar problems as mentioned above with Dell outsourced "Support". They think they are speaking English, but they are not. VOIP voice quality only exacerbates the problem.

  26. bobszon Avatar
    bobszon

    Does anyone know which or how many of the four actually caused the fault or should all four be removed?

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Windows Update KB973879 has been identified as the specific update causing the error, but it appears that some users may have experienced blue screens with other updates as well. I will post an update to this article if I identify any additional problematic updates.

      1. bobszon Avatar
        bobszon

        Thank You, Thank You, THANK YOU! I also shared similar problems as mentioned above with Dell outsourced "Support". They think they are speaking English, but they are not. VOIP voice quality only exacerbates the problem.

  27. Bear-Bear Avatar
    Bear-Bear

    Evan, thank you SO MUCH! I appreciate your posting and have now saved your site to my Favs! I unfortunately found this after resolving my issue with HP and after talking to their "outsourced" tech support for 3.5 hrs yesterday and another hr today. Finally got it fixed! One suggestion to those with HP laptops: use the online chat prior to calling tech support–you minimize the language barrier (as they do type English better than they speak it) and it is a MUCH quicker response. Again, thanks for this site!! You're awesome! Keep up the GREAT work!

  28. Bear-Bear Avatar
    Bear-Bear

    Evan, thank you SO MUCH! I appreciate your posting and have now saved your site to my Favs! I unfortunately found this after resolving my issue with HP and after talking to their "outsourced" tech support for 3.5 hrs yesterday and another hr today. Finally got it fixed! One suggestion to those with HP laptops: use the online chat prior to calling tech support–you minimize the language barrier (as they do type English better than they speak it) and it is a MUCH quicker response. Again, thanks for this site!! You're awesome! Keep up the GREAT work!

  29. Bear-Bear Avatar
    Bear-Bear

    P.S. So much for Windows' Updates being able to “enhance your computer's security and performance”! Evan, how can we know which updates to install and that won't hurt our PCs? Please advice. THANK YOU!

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Since this update affected a specific manufacturer/model laptop, it was nearly impossible to know it would have caused this type of problem. *Most* of the time the updates don't cause problems like this, so I still highly recommend installing them as soon as they are available, especially for security updates.

      Hopefully in the future these updates can be tested more thoroughly before they are released! I feel very bad for the hundreds of people that have reformatted their computers (or paid money to have it fixed) over this type of problem.

  30. Bear-Bear Avatar
    Bear-Bear

    P.S. So much for Windows' Updates being able to “enhance your computer's security and performance”! Evan, how can we know which updates to install and that won't hurt our PCs? Please advice. THANK YOU!

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Since this update affected a specific manufacturer/model laptop, it was nearly impossible to know it would have caused this type of problem. *Most* of the time the updates don't cause problems like this, so I still highly recommend installing them as soon as they are available, especially for security updates.

      Hopefully in the future these updates can be tested more thoroughly before they are released! I feel very bad for the hundreds of people that have reformatted their computers (or paid money to have it fixed) over this type of problem.

  31. Guest Avatar
    Guest

    Thank you so much! My HP Pavilion dv7 (also a new laptop, like many who have commented) is now up and running again, though for some reason Trillian is still being difficult (I get numerous parse errors upon starting up the program, and it does not display the buddy list.) Does anyone know of a good fix or diagnostic for this? I am not opposed to installing an alternative, like Pidgin, as a cop-out fix.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      I don't have experience with Trillian, but I use both Pidgin (<a href="http://pidgin.im)” target=”_blank”>http://pidgin.im) and Digsby (<a href="http://www.digsby.com)” target=”_blank”>http://www.digsby.com) which are fantastic multi-protocol instant messengers.

      If you choose to use Digsby (which is my primary IM client) be careful when running the installer, it has a lot of "optional software" it tries to get you to install.

      1. Paco Avatar
        Paco

        Hey, I have an Hp Pavilion dv6570ee, and I’m currently having a major bluescreen problem.
        Right now I’m on safe mode. I have checked for such update, but the only one I have that’s close to what you show is (KB973874).
        Do you have any other way of solving this problem?
        Thanks in advance

        1. evanw Avatar

          Try Method 2 in the guide (reverting to a previous system restore point) and let me know if that fixes the problem.

          1. aditya goel Avatar
            aditya goel

            Hi,
            thanks a ton for your help and cudos!! to you EVAN on the gr8 job, u truly are a life saver…
            jst would like your help a little more..
            ever since i have unistalled that update, i have not been able to connect my bluetooth device…
            plz help me out…
            thanks in advance…

  32. Guest Avatar
    Guest

    Thank you so much! My HP Pavilion dv7 (also a new laptop, like many who have commented) is now up and running again, though for some reason Trillian is still being difficult (I get numerous parse errors upon starting up the program, and it does not display the buddy list.) Does anyone know of a good fix or diagnostic for this? I am not opposed to installing an alternative, like Pidgin, as a cop-out fix.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      I don't have experience with Trillian, but I use both Pidgin (<a href="http://pidgin.im)” target=”_blank”>http://pidgin.im) and Digsby (<a href="http://www.digsby.com)” target=”_blank”>http://www.digsby.com) which are fantastic multi-protocol instant messengers.

      If you choose to use Digsby (which is my primary IM client) be careful when running the installer, it has a lot of "optional software" it tries to get you to install.

      1. Paco Avatar
        Paco

        Hey, I have an Hp Pavilion dv6570ee, and I’m currently having a major bluescreen problem.
        Right now I’m on safe mode. I have checked for such update, but the only one I have that’s close to what you show is (KB973874).
        Do you have any other way of solving this problem?
        Thanks in advance

        1. evanw Avatar

          Try Method 2 in the guide (reverting to a previous system restore point) and let me know if that fixes the problem.

          1. aditya goel Avatar
            aditya goel

            Hi,
            thanks a ton for your help and cudos!! to you EVAN on the gr8 job, u truly are a life saver…
            jst would like your help a little more..
            ever since i have unistalled that update, i have not been able to connect my bluetooth device…
            plz help me out…
            thanks in advance…

  33. AdvGmni Avatar
    AdvGmni

    Excellent instructions. I just posted a link on Dell's support forum. I hope you are ok with this.
    http://en.community.dell.com/forums/p/19291390/19

    Just fyi.. After researching this issue, it seems as if this is happening to all different manufactures (HP, Dell, Acer). They all come back saying that they have a Vista 64 bit OS. This update was supposed to fix another update issue: Some 64 bit OS’s cannot update to Vista SP2. Below is Microsoft’s link explaining the Vista 64 Bit SP2 update issue. http://support.microsoft.com/kb/973879

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Thank you for the link! I'll try to establish how widespread the problem is with non-HP computers and perhaps I will need to update this guide to accommodate other manufacturers.

  34. AdvGmni Avatar
    AdvGmni

    Excellent instructions. I just posted a link on Dell's support forum. I hope you are ok with this.
    http://en.community.dell.com/forums/p/19291390/19

    Just fyi.. After researching this issue, it seems as if this is happening to all different manufactures (HP, Dell, Acer). They all come back saying that they have a Vista 64 bit OS. This update was supposed to fix another update issue: Some 64 bit OS’s cannot update to Vista SP2. Below is Microsoft’s link explaining the Vista 64 Bit SP2 update issue. http://support.microsoft.com/kb/973879

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Thank you for the link! I'll try to establish how widespread the problem is with non-HP computers and perhaps I will need to update this guide to accommodate other manufacturers.

  35. kc chan Avatar
    kc chan

    hey… thanks a millions!!! you save my day…
    by the way, I recommend all the users to disable the window auto update on your system.

    1. evanw Avatar

      Windows Updates are still important to install (especially security updates), but users can set their updates to prompt before installing by clicking Start –> Control Panel, type "Update" in the search box, click "Turn automatic updating on or off", then select "Check for updates but let me choose whether to download and install them".

  36. kc chan Avatar
    kc chan

    hey… thanks a millions!!! you save my day…
    by the way, I recommend all the users to disable the window auto update on your system.

    1. evanw Avatar

      Windows Updates are still important to install (especially security updates), but users can set their updates to prompt before installing by clicking Start –> Control Panel, type "Update" in the search box, click "Turn automatic updating on or off", then select "Check for updates but let me choose whether to download and install them".

  37. Greenwood143 Avatar
    Greenwood143

    THANK YOU!! Save my day on my Dell Stdio 1737! Loosing time on it since yesterday… now fixed!

  38. Greenwood143 Avatar
    Greenwood143

    THANK YOU!! Save my day on my Dell Stdio 1737! Loosing time on it since yesterday… now fixed!

  39. nelsonb Avatar

    Bought a new HP Pavilion dv6 a month ago after old Toshiba died. I was very ticked off after down loading new updates and BSoD appeared. Spent to hours in a chat with MS last night and all they did was solve the symptom by downloading a new driver. Worked some what but started getting the BSoD again. I give Evan a two thumbs up: I used his first option and in 5 minutes problem solved. I will check with techerator before I ever waste time with MS again.

  40. nelsonb Avatar

    Bought a new HP Pavilion dv6 a month ago after old Toshiba died. I was very ticked off after down loading new updates and BSoD appeared. Spent to hours in a chat with MS last night and all they did was solve the symptom by downloading a new driver. Worked some what but started getting the BSoD again. I give Evan a two thumbs up: I used his first option and in 5 minutes problem solved. I will check with techerator before I ever waste time with MS again.

  41. Brian Avatar
    Brian

    Thanks a bunch! Was having the same problem on my Dell 14z.

  42. Brian Avatar
    Brian

    Thanks a bunch! Was having the same problem on my Dell 14z.

  43. PeteA Avatar
    PeteA

    Thanks for posting the solution. I found it a bit late, although new it has got to be the update, yet decided to spend over an hour waiting, and an hour talking to HP tech support only to tell me there is no solution but to uninstall. Kinda frustrating day. Thanks again for complete solution with pictures.

  44. PeteA Avatar
    PeteA

    Thanks for posting the solution. I found it a bit late, although new it has got to be the update, yet decided to spend over an hour waiting, and an hour talking to HP tech support only to tell me there is no solution but to uninstall. Kinda frustrating day. Thanks again for complete solution with pictures.

  45. Nick Avatar
    Nick

    Hey man thanks a lot! I have a Dell Inspiron and this started a few days ago but this fixed it, I really hope this update is fixed soon!

  46. Nick Avatar
    Nick

    Hey man thanks a lot! I have a Dell Inspiron and this started a few days ago but this fixed it, I really hope this update is fixed soon!

  47. Mike Avatar
    Mike

    I have a new hp dv4 that bsod on Tuesday — this worked! Thank you so much!

  48. Mike Avatar
    Mike

    I have a new hp dv4 that bsod on Tuesday — this worked! Thank you so much!

  49. matth Avatar
    matth

    Had the same issue this morning on a Pavilion dv6-1245dx. I purchased it this past weekend (after my Pavilion dv6324us died) and everything was running smoothly until this morning. Came downstairs to discover the new computer in a reboot loop after a BSOD. Looked at the reboot log and found that it started to reboot about 3:12AM this morning. As I looked around in Programs, I found that Windows did an update around 3:00AM. A big clue. I received 4 updates at the same time: KB973879, KB973874, KB970653, and KB972036. I thought about doing a system restore but then I would’nt know exactly which update caused the problem. So I started at the top of the list and it happended to be the KB973879. As soon as I uninstalled it (had to do all of this in Safe Mode) and rebooted it worked fine. Got to love Microsoft!

  50. matth Avatar
    matth

    Had the same issue this morning on a Pavilion dv6-1245dx. I purchased it this past weekend (after my Pavilion dv6324us died) and everything was running smoothly until this morning. Came downstairs to discover the new computer in a reboot loop after a BSOD. Looked at the reboot log and found that it started to reboot about 3:12AM this morning. As I looked around in Programs, I found that Windows did an update around 3:00AM. A big clue. I received 4 updates at the same time: KB973879, KB973874, KB970653, and KB972036. I thought about doing a system restore but then I would’nt know exactly which update caused the problem. So I started at the top of the list and it happended to be the KB973879. As soon as I uninstalled it (had to do all of this in Safe Mode) and rebooted it worked fine. Got to love Microsoft!

  51. Lissy Avatar

    I just bought a Dell Studio XPS and it was working fine until yesterday when it started blue-screening me every time it came back from hibernate or sleep. I googled and found other XPS owners with the same problem and it led me here. Way to go microsoft! Glad it’s not something I did.

  52. Mary Avatar
    Mary

    You are a genius my friend! You saved me a trip to Best Buy and gave me back my laptop for the night. So much thanks! With this update messing up everyone, you’re helping who knows how many people. Did what you said and it started up no problem at all.

    Thanks again! Wonderful advice!

  53. Lissy Avatar

    I just bought a Dell Studio XPS and it was working fine until yesterday when it started blue-screening me every time it came back from hibernate or sleep. I googled and found other XPS owners with the same problem and it led me here. Way to go microsoft! Glad it’s not something I did.

  54. Mary Avatar
    Mary

    You are a genius my friend! You saved me a trip to Best Buy and gave me back my laptop for the night. So much thanks! With this update messing up everyone, you’re helping who knows how many people. Did what you said and it started up no problem at all.

    Thanks again! Wonderful advice!

  55. Luke P Avatar
    Luke P

    Just got my VAIO FW a couple days ago and was unable to remove any sort of USB hardware (flash drives, transfer cables, even a portable mouse) without getting a blue screen, RAM dump, and automatic restart. Long story short.. FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS. There was no issue after I uninstalled KB973879. Also, the Vaio update page has recognized this as a FAQ and can instruct you.

    Nice work on the walkthrough!

  56. Luke P Avatar
    Luke P

    Just got my VAIO FW a couple days ago and was unable to remove any sort of USB hardware (flash drives, transfer cables, even a portable mouse) without getting a blue screen, RAM dump, and automatic restart. Long story short.. FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS. There was no issue after I uninstalled KB973879. Also, the Vaio update page has recognized this as a FAQ and can instruct you.

    Nice work on the walkthrough!

  57. Julien Avatar
    Julien

    , the update for vista sp2 has disapear from Windows Update….

  58. Julien Avatar
    Julien

    , the update for vista sp2 has disapear from Windows Update….

  59. Carrie Avatar
    Carrie

    Thanks for the info! The first fix worked on my 2 week old Sony Vaio FW.

  60. Carrie Avatar
    Carrie

    Thanks for the info! The first fix worked on my 2 week old Sony Vaio FW.

  61. Kamran Avatar
    Kamran

    Evan..Cant thank you enough… your 1st Method worked for my computer.. Dell Studio 1555

    comment on "bobszon"

    i know the ppl at dell support are Bunch of IDIOTS. This Indian lady calling her self PAM saying that its my memory card and, because its a third party product i have to pay her.. I hung up on dat B*

    for me the blue screen started to appear whn i removed my memroy card safely or unsafely…

    so i went to Best Buy where i bought it. i bought this laptop on Aug 6, 2009 not even a month ago..nd i got the 3yr protection for $270, nd dat douche-bag at BB is saying that i have to pay him $ 30.. Walked out of dere..nd googled the probelm.. came to this website.. and got rid of my problem…

    THANK A TON EVAN….

  62. Kamran Avatar
    Kamran

    Evan..Cant thank you enough… your 1st Method worked for my computer.. Dell Studio 1555

    comment on "bobszon"

    i know the ppl at dell support are Bunch of IDIOTS. This Indian lady calling her self PAM saying that its my memory card and, because its a third party product i have to pay her.. I hung up on dat B*

    for me the blue screen started to appear whn i removed my memroy card safely or unsafely…

    so i went to Best Buy where i bought it. i bought this laptop on Aug 6, 2009 not even a month ago..nd i got the 3yr protection for $270, nd dat douche-bag at BB is saying that i have to pay him $ 30.. Walked out of dere..nd googled the probelm.. came to this website.. and got rid of my problem…

    THANK A TON EVAN….

  63. Bill Avatar
    Bill

    Looks like Microsoft has been informed:

    "Important A known issue was found with this update. This update, which was previously released, is no longer available. If you experience Stop error issues after you have applied this update, follow the instructions in the "Known issues" section to uninstall the update."

    http://support.microsoft.com/kb/973879

  64. Bill Avatar
    Bill

    Looks like Microsoft has been informed:

    "Important A known issue was found with this update. This update, which was previously released, is no longer available. If you experience Stop error issues after you have applied this update, follow the instructions in the "Known issues" section to uninstall the update."

    http://support.microsoft.com/kb/973879

  65. cary Avatar
    cary

    Great stuff. I auto unwittingly updated and installed this Vista 64 file yesterday and have been cursing my Sony laptoptop (FW378J) ever since. the BSOD on this notebook occured with iTunes 8.02 and removing the USB/iPod connection and the Logitech USB Transmitter. Was about to migarte to an Apple Mac but your post saved the day (or at least delayed my trip to AppleLand). Thanks loads (especially for the clear description and screenshots).

    How did Microsoft miss this, foe heaven's sake?

  66. cary Avatar
    cary

    Great stuff. I auto unwittingly updated and installed this Vista 64 file yesterday and have been cursing my Sony laptoptop (FW378J) ever since. the BSOD on this notebook occured with iTunes 8.02 and removing the USB/iPod connection and the Logitech USB Transmitter. Was about to migarte to an Apple Mac but your post saved the day (or at least delayed my trip to AppleLand). Thanks loads (especially for the clear description and screenshots).

    How did Microsoft miss this, foe heaven's sake?

  67. AD Avatar
    AD

    Thank you so much for your help!
    I was able to fix my BSOD problem that had rendered my Dell Studio 1737 useless!
    Five minute lifesaver!

  68. AD Avatar
    AD

    Thank you so much for your help!
    I was able to fix my BSOD problem that had rendered my Dell Studio 1737 useless!
    Five minute lifesaver!

  69. kristin Avatar
    kristin

    THANK YOU SOOO MUCH!!!! I thought I had a virus or something, but thankfully, you guys saved it! Thanks again!

  70. kristin Avatar
    kristin

    THANK YOU SOOO MUCH!!!! I thought I had a virus or something, but thankfully, you guys saved it! Thanks again!

  71. bob Avatar

    re Vista Update kb973879
    Happened to my 3 week old dv4. The HP tech told me the’ve seen a lot of these and also told me that M/S has withdrawn this update. (Really? Or just covering HP’s behind?)
    Anyway, Evan — great advice.

  72. bob Avatar

    re Vista Update kb973879
    Happened to my 3 week old dv4. The HP tech told me the’ve seen a lot of these and also told me that M/S has withdrawn this update. (Really? Or just covering HP’s behind?)
    Anyway, Evan — great advice.

  73. Roni Avatar
    Roni

    This is a God send. My computer crashed repeatedly for two days, both in Safe Mode and after I restored it. Didn't know the cause, of course ,and I didn't know about hitting the F8 repeatedly. My manuscript was due to my agent and I was stroking out. Staples didn't know as much about it as I did.
    Thank you.

  74. Roni Avatar
    Roni

    This is a God send. My computer crashed repeatedly for two days, both in Safe Mode and after I restored it. Didn't know the cause, of course ,and I didn't know about hitting the F8 repeatedly. My manuscript was due to my agent and I was stroking out. Staples didn't know as much about it as I did.
    Thank you.

  75. Guest1 Avatar
    Guest1

    Hey, I’m having the same problem, i know i installed the update, because its in my update history, but i can’t seem to find/uninstall it.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      If you can't find the update, try using Method 2 to revert to a previous system restore point. Let me know if you still have problems after that.

  76. Guest1 Avatar
    Guest1

    Hey, I’m having the same problem, i know i installed the update, because its in my update history, but i can’t seem to find/uninstall it.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      If you can't find the update, try using Method 2 to revert to a previous system restore point. Let me know if you still have problems after that.

  77. […] Fix: Windows Vista 64-bit Gets Blue Screen After Windows Updates | Techerator http://www.techerator.com/2009/08/fix-windows-vista-64-bit-gets-blue-screen-after-windows-updates – view page – cached A recent Windows Update (KB973879) has been causing a blue screen of death (stop error) in many computers running Windows Vista 64-bit edition.  Many of the — From the page […]

  78. BevyO Avatar
    BevyO

    I have added you to my FAVs!!! Thanks for helping us non-techies!!! I’ve only had my HP for three weeks and was really bumming until I found your info. Thanks again!!!

  79. BevyO Avatar
    BevyO

    I have added you to my FAVs!!! Thanks for helping us non-techies!!! I’ve only had my HP for three weeks and was really bumming until I found your info. Thanks again!!!

  80. Kamran Avatar
    Kamran

    comment on cary

    me too… i even called best buy and asked dem if i could switch..but i was not under the 14 days return policy…but definitely from now onward APPLE….

  81. Kamran Avatar
    Kamran

    comment on cary

    me too… i even called best buy and asked dem if i could switch..but i was not under the 14 days return policy…but definitely from now onward APPLE….

  82. ron Avatar
    ron

    Thanks very much for this. I have a MEDION Akoya and the screen went all garbled after installing these patches. Every thing ok now again. Ron

  83. ron Avatar
    ron

    Thanks very much for this. I have a MEDION Akoya and the screen went all garbled after installing these patches. Every thing ok now again. Ron

  84. Kay Avatar
    Kay

    I am sooooo upset right now!!!
    My DELL Studio is one month old and on Aug 24, i renewed and upgraded Norton.
    And Aug 25 this BSOD happened. I restored my computer back on Aug 23 (did not have Aug 24 point) and erased microsoft update. Problem fixed and I reinstalled Norton. And Norton doesn't work now!!!
    I contacted Norton and they say I may have a virus and if I use their service to remove it, I have to pay $99.
    I just pay the subscription less than a week ago and they are asking another fee!!!
    I refused to pay because I don't think it's a virus issue.
    Sorry this maybe offtopic., but I am sooooooo upset and wanted to share my anger with somebody………..

    By the way your site is great, so easy to understand. I send this site address to my friends who still have problems.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Glad we could be of help!

      In regards to your Norton problem, check if you still have any receipt or proof of purchase of your subscription. You should be able to use that information to reactivate your software.

      If you're still having difficulties, I would recommend trying a free antivirus program as an alternative. In my experience, they work very well and I typically give them out to people who need protection. Try out one of the following:

      AVG Free: http://download.cnet.com/AVG-Anti-Virus-Free-Edit

      Avira AntiVir (I'm currently using this one): http://download.cnet.com/Avira-AntiVir-Personal-F

      avast! Home Edition: http://download.cnet.com/Avast-Home-Edition/3000-

  85. Kay Avatar
    Kay

    I am sooooo upset right now!!!
    My DELL Studio is one month old and on Aug 24, i renewed and upgraded Norton.
    And Aug 25 this BSOD happened. I restored my computer back on Aug 23 (did not have Aug 24 point) and erased microsoft update. Problem fixed and I reinstalled Norton. And Norton doesn't work now!!!
    I contacted Norton and they say I may have a virus and if I use their service to remove it, I have to pay $99.
    I just pay the subscription less than a week ago and they are asking another fee!!!
    I refused to pay because I don't think it's a virus issue.
    Sorry this maybe offtopic., but I am sooooooo upset and wanted to share my anger with somebody………..

    By the way your site is great, so easy to understand. I send this site address to my friends who still have problems.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Glad we could be of help!

      In regards to your Norton problem, check if you still have any receipt or proof of purchase of your subscription. You should be able to use that information to reactivate your software.

      If you're still having difficulties, I would recommend trying a free antivirus program as an alternative. In my experience, they work very well and I typically give them out to people who need protection. Try out one of the following:

      AVG Free: http://download.cnet.com/AVG-Anti-Virus-Free-Edit

      Avira AntiVir (I'm currently using this one): http://download.cnet.com/Avira-AntiVir-Personal-F

      avast! Home Edition: http://download.cnet.com/Avast-Home-Edition/3000-

  86. Kay Avatar
    Kay

    May I ask you a question?
    After fixed the problem, I turned off automatic update but my computer still telling me I have important update
    (KB970653) dated Aug 25.
    I understand the importance of updates, but don't want to try now. Microsoft updates are worse than virus for now…………………
    What should I do? ignore or install??
    Thank you

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      I recommend installing updates as they become available. Despite the severity of the problems caused by this recent update, they typically do more good than harm.

      According to Microsoft, Update KB970653 "Resolves issues caused by revised daylight saving time and time zone laws in several countries." It probably isn't critical to install this specific update, but it's still a good practice to follow.

      Please let me know if you have any additional questions!

  87. Kay Avatar
    Kay

    May I ask you a question?
    After fixed the problem, I turned off automatic update but my computer still telling me I have important update
    (KB970653) dated Aug 25.
    I understand the importance of updates, but don't want to try now. Microsoft updates are worse than virus for now…………………
    What should I do? ignore or install??
    Thank you

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      I recommend installing updates as they become available. Despite the severity of the problems caused by this recent update, they typically do more good than harm.

      According to Microsoft, Update KB970653 "Resolves issues caused by revised daylight saving time and time zone laws in several countries." It probably isn't critical to install this specific update, but it's still a good practice to follow.

      Please let me know if you have any additional questions!

  88. Mikayla Avatar
    Mikayla

    THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!

  89. Mikayla Avatar
    Mikayla

    THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!

  90. Jeff Avatar
    Jeff

    I'm trying to fix a Dell Insperion 1545 with this problem. When I got to list the updates, it doesn't show updates for windows, only things like office, silverlight, etc. The update log does show kb973879 being installed, though. Any ideas on how I can get to it to uninstall it?

    Thanks,
    Jeff

    1. evanw Avatar

      Hi Jeff,

      Try using Method 2 to do a System Restore, and try to select a date prior to August 25th (when the patch was pushed). Please let me know if you still experience problems after trying this.

  91. Jeff Avatar
    Jeff

    I'm trying to fix a Dell Insperion 1545 with this problem. When I got to list the updates, it doesn't show updates for windows, only things like office, silverlight, etc. The update log does show kb973879 being installed, though. Any ideas on how I can get to it to uninstall it?

    Thanks,
    Jeff

    1. evanw Avatar

      Hi Jeff,

      Try using Method 2 to do a System Restore, and try to select a date prior to August 25th (when the patch was pushed). Please let me know if you still experience problems after trying this.

  92. Aditya Goel Avatar

    hi EVAN
    thanks a ton for the post…. u r a true life saver….
    jst wanted ur help on another issue…
    i uninstalled the update.. now everything is else working fine… bt suddenly my bluetooth has stopped working… could u plz shed some light on the same..
    thanks in advance…

  93. Aditya Goel Avatar

    hi EVAN
    thanks a ton for the post…. u r a true life saver….
    jst wanted ur help on another issue…
    i uninstalled the update.. now everything is else working fine… bt suddenly my bluetooth has stopped working… could u plz shed some light on the same..
    thanks in advance…

  94. Jason Keirstead Avatar
    Jason Keirstead

    Thanks for this… been struggling with this a few days. Also thanks to Google who sent me here 🙂

  95. Jason Keirstead Avatar
    Jason Keirstead

    Thanks for this… been struggling with this a few days. Also thanks to Google who sent me here 🙂

  96. Jeff Avatar
    Jeff

    I'm trying to fix a Dell Insperion 1545 with this problem. When I got to list the updates, it doesn't show updates for windows, only things like office, silverlight, etc. The update log does show kb973879 being installed, though. Any ideas on how I can get to it to uninstall it?

  97. Jeff Avatar
    Jeff

    I'm trying to fix a Dell Insperion 1545 with this problem. When I got to list the updates, it doesn't show updates for windows, only things like office, silverlight, etc. The update log does show kb973879 being installed, though. Any ideas on how I can get to it to uninstall it?

  98. Doug Avatar
    Doug

    Thanks for the clear, visual and unambiguous help.

    My problem was on a 2 week old Dell Studio 1555. My error code was little different from the one you specify:
    0X0000007E (0XFFFFFFFFC0000005, 0XFFFFF80002017B81, 0XFFFFFA60017F5798, 0XFFFFFA60017F5170)
    The PC would run OK for up to 20 or 30 mins before the BSOD with the error message appeared.
    Used method one above and its been running for over hour now without failing.

    Like one of your correspondents above I have also stored you in my favourites. Thanks again.

  99. Doug Avatar
    Doug

    Thanks for the clear, visual and unambiguous help.

    My problem was on a 2 week old Dell Studio 1555. My error code was little different from the one you specify:
    0X0000007E (0XFFFFFFFFC0000005, 0XFFFFF80002017B81, 0XFFFFFA60017F5798, 0XFFFFFA60017F5170)
    The PC would run OK for up to 20 or 30 mins before the BSOD with the error message appeared.
    Used method one above and its been running for over hour now without failing.

    Like one of your correspondents above I have also stored you in my favourites. Thanks again.

  100. Hugh Avatar
    Hugh

    Many thanks for helping with this problem. I have a newly purchased Sony Vaio that started Blue Screen crashing after Aug 27 whenever I unplugged a USB device. Your fix worked perfectly to remove the problem.

  101. Hugh Avatar
    Hugh

    Many thanks for helping with this problem. I have a newly purchased Sony Vaio that started Blue Screen crashing after Aug 27 whenever I unplugged a USB device. Your fix worked perfectly to remove the problem.

  102. ben g Avatar
    ben g

    hi this also happens with some dell laptops because i have had this problem iv read it could be a certain proccesor that this is linked to im running a core 2 duo p8600 on 64 vista home premium iv now fixed the problem by deleting the update. however isnt this the update for service pack 2 have they now bought out a different update for service pack 2 i no that they have now took the update that caused the problem of thier site thanks ben

  103. ben g Avatar
    ben g

    hi this also happens with some dell laptops because i have had this problem iv read it could be a certain proccesor that this is linked to im running a core 2 duo p8600 on 64 vista home premium iv now fixed the problem by deleting the update. however isnt this the update for service pack 2 have they now bought out a different update for service pack 2 i no that they have now took the update that caused the problem of thier site thanks ben

  104. Mary Avatar
    Mary

    I have been cursing this occuring on a 3 week old Dell 1545. I had worked out that it was connected to my USB drives and was beginning to consider restoring the system. However, thanks to this first fix, its sorted in seconds. Many thanks. Jeff…I found the offending update on the very bottom of my list.

  105. Mary Avatar
    Mary

    I have been cursing this occuring on a 3 week old Dell 1545. I had worked out that it was connected to my USB drives and was beginning to consider restoring the system. However, thanks to this first fix, its sorted in seconds. Many thanks. Jeff…I found the offending update on the very bottom of my list.

  106. Graeme Avatar
    Graeme

    Hi Evan, i hope you can help me. i have a new HP dv6. about once a week i get a BLANK blue screen. everything disappears and the only way i can treat it is to press and hold the power button until it powers down. on reboot, everything works fine for a week or so the wham, it happens again. i can't see any pattern as to what might trigger it. any thoughts?

    1. evanw Avatar

      Blue screens are commonly generated by hardware, so it may help to make sure all drivers for your computer and peripherals are updated to the newest versions. Your computer manufacturer's website should have the most recent drivers available, just search for your specific model under Support/Drivers. Please let me know if you have any questions with this process.

  107. Graeme Avatar
    Graeme

    Hi Evan, i hope you can help me. i have a new HP dv6. about once a week i get a BLANK blue screen. everything disappears and the only way i can treat it is to press and hold the power button until it powers down. on reboot, everything works fine for a week or so the wham, it happens again. i can't see any pattern as to what might trigger it. any thoughts?

    1. evanw Avatar

      Blue screens are commonly generated by hardware, so it may help to make sure all drivers for your computer and peripherals are updated to the newest versions. Your computer manufacturer's website should have the most recent drivers available, just search for your specific model under Support/Drivers. Please let me know if you have any questions with this process.

  108. […] Re: Vista 64bit BlueScreen We put together a guide with pictures to fixing the blue screen errors in Windows Vista 64-bit caused by KB973879: Fix: Windows Vista 64-bit Gets Blue Screen After Windows Updates | Techerator […]

  109. Rick Avatar
    Rick

    I thought this was definitely my problem but I was disappointed to see that I did not have this update installed. 🙁 I guess my search for the cause of my BSOD's continues.

    1. evanw Avatar

      Hi Rick,

      What error number are you getting on the blue screen? Are you using Windows Vista 64-bit?

      1. Rick Avatar
        Rick

        Hey Eric,

        Yea I'm on 64bit Vista Ultimate. Last week I woke up in the middle of the night to my system rebooting to BSOD over and over. I remember I installed SP2 and it seemed fine for a day or two. I'm sure some other updates were in there too.

        I'm at work right now but I remember seeing 0x0000007E and 0x00000050.

        Thanks for the quick reply.

        1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

          When following Method 1 and getting to Step 3/4 (viewing installed updates), click the Installed Date column and look at the most recently installed updates. Could you post those updates?

          1. Rick Avatar
            Rick

            I forgot to mention that I reinstalled windows so all updates are recent. But here are some:
            KB973874
            KB970653
            KB969058
            KB968389
            KB967190

            There are too many to list and I can’t copy and paste. I thought this might be RAM but I successfully ran MemTest. I’m going to run ChkDsk soon.

  110. Rick Avatar
    Rick

    I thought this was definitely my problem but I was disappointed to see that I did not have this update installed. 🙁 I guess my search for the cause of my BSOD's continues.

    1. evanw Avatar

      Hi Rick,

      What error number are you getting on the blue screen? Are you using Windows Vista 64-bit?

      1. Rick Avatar
        Rick

        Hey Eric,

        Yea I'm on 64bit Vista Ultimate. Last week I woke up in the middle of the night to my system rebooting to BSOD over and over. I remember I installed SP2 and it seemed fine for a day or two. I'm sure some other updates were in there too.

        I'm at work right now but I remember seeing 0x0000007E and 0x00000050.

        Thanks for the quick reply.

        1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

          When following Method 1 and getting to Step 3/4 (viewing installed updates), click the Installed Date column and look at the most recently installed updates. Could you post those updates?

          1. Rick Avatar
            Rick

            I forgot to mention that I reinstalled windows so all updates are recent. But here are some:
            KB973874
            KB970653
            KB969058
            KB968389
            KB967190

            There are too many to list and I can’t copy and paste. I thought this might be RAM but I successfully ran MemTest. I’m going to run ChkDsk soon.

  111. Rick Avatar
    Rick

    I forgot to mention that I reinstalled windows so all updates are recent. But here are some:
    KB973874
    KB970653
    KB969058
    KB968389
    KB967190

    There are too many to list and I can't copy and paste. I thought this might be RAM but I successfully ran MemTest. I'm going to run ChkDsk soon.

  112. Rick Avatar
    Rick

    I forgot to mention that I reinstalled windows so all updates are recent. But here are some:
    KB973874
    KB970653
    KB969058
    KB968389
    KB967190

    There are too many to list and I can't copy and paste. I thought this might be RAM but I successfully ran MemTest. I'm going to run ChkDsk soon.

  113. AD5 Avatar
    AD5

    I suffered this crash last week and was told to do a complete “system restore” by Tech Support before finding this site. Your solution worked great and I wish I would have seen it first. However, I did a complete restoration and now I notice the same Windows Update (KB973879) available for installation in today’s (9/1/09) updates. My question is this…is this the exact same update or did Windows correct the problem and this update is trustworthy? My laptop (dv6) is 4 weeks old so do I even need this update since it deals with the Vista Service Pack? I’ve hidden the update until I get additional insight. Hopefully, Windows 7 won’t have these same issues!

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hello,

      I just read that Microsoft has released a second version of the update (but apparently didn't change the KB number, which I think would scare off many users). They have officially said that the new version should not cause any problems, but it might not be a bad idea to wait a week or so just to verify that with other users.

      Here's a link to their information on the 2nd version of KB973879: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/973879

      1. AD5 Avatar
        AD5

        Thanks, Evan! With my laptop being only 4 weeks old, do I even need this update? The website claims:

        “When you try to install Windows Vista Service Pack 2 or Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2 on the computer, you receive the following Stop error message:
        Stop 0x0000003E (parameter1, parameter2, parameter3, parameter4)
        MultiProcessor_Configuration_Not_Supported”.

        I’m not trying to install the VSP2 or WS 2008 SP2 and don’t receive that error. The initial update just gave me the blue screen. Shouldn’t my 4-week old laptop already have these Service Packs loaded?

        1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

          Even brand new computers are typically behind on updates – most of the time an OEM copy of Windows is installed by the manufacturer and there is no guarantee that subsequent (non-service pack) updates were installed.

          To be honest, you probably don't need the update. Windows sees it as an important system update though, so it will probably insist you install it regardless of its relevance to your system. It might not be a bad idea to hold off on updating (temporarily), but if you do decide to update you may want to set a system restore point before you do.

          To set a system restore point:

          1. Open your Start Menu and right click on Computer and select Properties.
          2. Click "Advanced system settings" on the left.
          3. Click the "System Protection" tab in the following window.
          4. Click the "Create" button which will set a new restore point.

          So if the new update does indeed cause problems, you'll have a very recent restore point you can revert to (using Method #2).

          I hope that can be of some help – please let me know if you have additional questions!

          1. AD5 Avatar
            AD5

            Thanks again, Evan! I passed your info on to a friend and it saved him a ton of time and headache. Like said in my first post, I just wish I could have found your page first. Techerator is now on my favorites list and will be my first stop for technical assistance. Your advice is very helpful!!

  114. AD5 Avatar
    AD5

    I suffered this crash last week and was told to do a complete “system restore” by Tech Support before finding this site. Your solution worked great and I wish I would have seen it first. However, I did a complete restoration and now I notice the same Windows Update (KB973879) available for installation in today’s (9/1/09) updates. My question is this…is this the exact same update or did Windows correct the problem and this update is trustworthy? My laptop (dv6) is 4 weeks old so do I even need this update since it deals with the Vista Service Pack? I’ve hidden the update until I get additional insight. Hopefully, Windows 7 won’t have these same issues!

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hello,

      I just read that Microsoft has released a second version of the update (but apparently didn't change the KB number, which I think would scare off many users). They have officially said that the new version should not cause any problems, but it might not be a bad idea to wait a week or so just to verify that with other users.

      Here's a link to their information on the 2nd version of KB973879: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/973879

      1. AD5 Avatar
        AD5

        Thanks, Evan! With my laptop being only 4 weeks old, do I even need this update? The website claims:

        “When you try to install Windows Vista Service Pack 2 or Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2 on the computer, you receive the following Stop error message:
        Stop 0x0000003E (parameter1, parameter2, parameter3, parameter4)
        MultiProcessor_Configuration_Not_Supported”.

        I’m not trying to install the VSP2 or WS 2008 SP2 and don’t receive that error. The initial update just gave me the blue screen. Shouldn’t my 4-week old laptop already have these Service Packs loaded?

        1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

          Even brand new computers are typically behind on updates – most of the time an OEM copy of Windows is installed by the manufacturer and there is no guarantee that subsequent (non-service pack) updates were installed.

          To be honest, you probably don't need the update. Windows sees it as an important system update though, so it will probably insist you install it regardless of its relevance to your system. It might not be a bad idea to hold off on updating (temporarily), but if you do decide to update you may want to set a system restore point before you do.

          To set a system restore point:

          1. Open your Start Menu and right click on Computer and select Properties.
          2. Click "Advanced system settings" on the left.
          3. Click the "System Protection" tab in the following window.
          4. Click the "Create" button which will set a new restore point.

          So if the new update does indeed cause problems, you'll have a very recent restore point you can revert to (using Method #2).

          I hope that can be of some help – please let me know if you have additional questions!

          1. AD5 Avatar
            AD5

            Thanks again, Evan! I passed your info on to a friend and it saved him a ton of time and headache. Like said in my first post, I just wish I could have found your page first. Techerator is now on my favorites list and will be my first stop for technical assistance. Your advice is very helpful!!

  115. chrisB Avatar
    chrisB

    Same question as above – the update is back today 9/1 w/ the same number. Do we install or not? I can't believe Microsoft did not send a bulletin regarding this MAJOR issue.

  116. chrisB Avatar
    chrisB

    Same question as above – the update is back today 9/1 w/ the same number. Do we install or not? I can't believe Microsoft did not send a bulletin regarding this MAJOR issue.

  117. John Avatar
    John

    It seems to me that older HP laptops are also taking the hit. I've got a dv6625 that has two updates that failed to install with Windows Update (KB970653 and KB972036) and somehow got themselves installed anyway, my pc got stuck in a endless loop during startup, with the 3rd fase of the installation making the pc reboot…I thank HP for the System Recovery option during POST, otherwise I wouldn’t be able to restore the system. Safe mode (Except command prompt, which I didn't try) and other attempts proved hopeless since Windows just wanted to finish the installation. I think a IE8 update may also be involved…but I'm not sure about that one. Still, your guide is very good and useful, unless my case happens…

  118. John Avatar
    John

    It seems to me that older HP laptops are also taking the hit. I've got a dv6625 that has two updates that failed to install with Windows Update (KB970653 and KB972036) and somehow got themselves installed anyway, my pc got stuck in a endless loop during startup, with the 3rd fase of the installation making the pc reboot…I thank HP for the System Recovery option during POST, otherwise I wouldn’t be able to restore the system. Safe mode (Except command prompt, which I didn't try) and other attempts proved hopeless since Windows just wanted to finish the installation. I think a IE8 update may also be involved…but I'm not sure about that one. Still, your guide is very good and useful, unless my case happens…

  119. KJS Avatar
    KJS

    Had the same problem with a new Dell computer I got 5 days ago. Thanks for the help. Very clear and easy to follow.

  120. KJS Avatar
    KJS

    Had the same problem with a new Dell computer I got 5 days ago. Thanks for the help. Very clear and easy to follow.

  121. chrisB Avatar
    chrisB

    Thank you so much. I think I will wait a few days before installing any more update unless they are critical and NEVER AGAIN without first creating a restore point! You guys are life savers!

  122. edgar Avatar
    edgar

    Hi , Evan

    I have same problem of BSOD mentioned. but i follow your steps but unfortunately i cannot find of said KB973879, any ideas?

    regards,
    Eddie

  123. edgar Avatar
    edgar

    Hi , Evan

    I have same problem of BSOD mentioned. but i follow your steps but unfortunately i cannot find of said KB973879, any ideas?

    regards,
    Eddie

  124. john Avatar
    john

    i had the same problem on an DELL inspiron 1750 running OS vista home premium x64 bit edition same update same blue screen same story (installing SP2 update) i followed your instructions and now is fine thank u so much.john uk

  125. john Avatar
    john

    i had the same problem on an DELL inspiron 1750 running OS vista home premium x64 bit edition same update same blue screen same story (installing SP2 update) i followed your instructions and now is fine thank u so much.john uk

  126. Dclong45 Avatar
    Dclong45

    Yep This is just what I did and it worked like a charm. I was a hair away from returning my brand new HP too. I got my help from an alert that came up when I went into safe mode. I used safe mode with networking and was able to follow the link to a helpful note online that explained this same process. I was freaked out though when it happened and then again after I did a system recovery and the same update came back around and killed my machine again. What's with MS and Vista? Sheesh.

  127. Dclong45 Avatar
    Dclong45

    Yep This is just what I did and it worked like a charm. I was a hair away from returning my brand new HP too. I got my help from an alert that came up when I went into safe mode. I used safe mode with networking and was able to follow the link to a helpful note online that explained this same process. I was freaked out though when it happened and then again after I did a system recovery and the same update came back around and killed my machine again. What's with MS and Vista? Sheesh.

  128. Aaron Avatar
    Aaron

    I have the hp pavilion tx 2000 64 bit and ive have double checked and wrote the KB number down, and checked it again. that KB number is not in my system. I have the KB973874 but not the 79 and i get the blue screen error. what else can i do to fix this problem since i dont have that KB number and its still doing it????
    Thanks,
    Aaron

  129. Aaron Avatar
    Aaron

    I have the hp pavilion tx 2000 64 bit and ive have double checked and wrote the KB number down, and checked it again. that KB number is not in my system. I have the KB973874 but not the 79 and i get the blue screen error. what else can i do to fix this problem since i dont have that KB number and its still doing it????
    Thanks,
    Aaron

  130. ScoutinAruba Avatar
    ScoutinAruba

    TNX a lot man, my brother bought a HP DV6 and I an HP DV4. My brother was the first victim, not expecting I was next. When my lap crashed I went to the internet for help and saw your post. Tnx again man for the detailed explanation.

  131. ScoutinAruba Avatar
    ScoutinAruba

    TNX a lot man, my brother bought a HP DV6 and I an HP DV4. My brother was the first victim, not expecting I was next. When my lap crashed I went to the internet for help and saw your post. Tnx again man for the detailed explanation.

  132. faton Avatar
    faton

    hello i have the same problems today, i have done the windows update but i kept getting the blue screen. i did a system restore without reading this page. after following solution 1 i cant seem to find the file KB973879 on programs and features and solution 2 i dont know how to find the repair your system when i press f8. please anyone help thank you

  133. faton Avatar
    faton

    hello i have the same problems today, i have done the windows update but i kept getting the blue screen. i did a system restore without reading this page. after following solution 1 i cant seem to find the file KB973879 on programs and features and solution 2 i dont know how to find the repair your system when i press f8. please anyone help thank you

  134. alex Avatar
    alex

    having a similar problem after windows update 09/09/09. can't boot into vista64, always getting blue screen.
    safe mode -> blue screen, system resrote via vista dvd -> blue screen. memtest is ok. i have a vista pe cd, which starts successfully, BUT how do i remove the windows update from there?
    microsoft support page says "boot CD and then perform an offline uninstallation of update KB973879."
    how to perform offline uninstallation??? thanks in advance

  135. alex Avatar
    alex

    having a similar problem after windows update 09/09/09. can't boot into vista64, always getting blue screen.
    safe mode -> blue screen, system resrote via vista dvd -> blue screen. memtest is ok. i have a vista pe cd, which starts successfully, BUT how do i remove the windows update from there?
    microsoft support page says "boot CD and then perform an offline uninstallation of update KB973879."
    how to perform offline uninstallation??? thanks in advance

  136. alex Avatar
    alex

    having a similar problem after windows update 09/09/09. can't boot into vista64, always getting blue screen.
    safe mode -> blue screen, system resrote via vista dvd -> blue screen. memtest is ok. i have a vista pe cd, which starts successfully, BUT how do i remove the windows update from there?
    microsoft support page says "boot CD and then perform an offline uninstallation of update KB973879."
    how to perform offline uninstallation??? thanks in advance

  137. alex Avatar
    alex

    having a similar problem after windows update 09/09/09. can't boot into vista64, always getting blue screen.
    safe mode -> blue screen, system resrote via vista dvd -> blue screen. memtest is ok. i have a vista pe cd, which starts successfully, BUT how do i remove the windows update from there?
    microsoft support page says "boot CD and then perform an offline uninstallation of update KB973879."
    how to perform offline uninstallation??? thanks in advance

  138. Deb Avatar
    Deb

    Thank you so much, I have a Dell Studio 17, and I got the blue screen error everytime I unplugged a usb device, and sometimes for no reason at all. I was just about to reformat my computer before I tried your fix!

  139. Deb Avatar
    Deb

    Thank you so much, I have a Dell Studio 17, and I got the blue screen error everytime I unplugged a usb device, and sometimes for no reason at all. I was just about to reformat my computer before I tried your fix!

  140. ljmaxx Avatar
    ljmaxx

    the people where i bought my system 7 days ago told me yesterday that the reason i am getting the blue screen of death is because i loaded an adobe 32 bit program into my 64 bit pc and it will cause the screen to happen. even if I didnt open or wasnt using the adobe program when the blue screen happens.. Is this a possiblitly…? Please advise me. I am not a pc guru and need some helpful advise.. Please. 🙂

  141. ljmaxx Avatar
    ljmaxx

    the people where i bought my system 7 days ago told me yesterday that the reason i am getting the blue screen of death is because i loaded an adobe 32 bit program into my 64 bit pc and it will cause the screen to happen. even if I didnt open or wasnt using the adobe program when the blue screen happens.. Is this a possiblitly…? Please advise me. I am not a pc guru and need some helpful advise.. Please. 🙂

  142. h1ren Avatar

    This is as close one can get to the true solution…

    My Dilemma:

    I am getting EXACTLY the same blue screen error but I don't see KB973879 as part my recent updates… How do I resolve or what do I look for to rectify this error. I never had this problem before, but after several recent updates this error shows up more then frequently.

    Also, I don't have "System Restore" running, so that solution is out of question. But reading this page I am convinced that the error is because of recent windows update. I have even formatted and re-installed the Vista (twice) but same results after I ran the windows update.

    My System:

    Windows Vista 64-bit Home Premium
    HP M9400F
    8 GB RAM
    AMD Phenom 9750 Quad-Core Processor 2.40 GHz

    Any help, I would love it 🙂

  143. h1ren Avatar

    This is as close one can get to the true solution…

    My Dilemma:

    I am getting EXACTLY the same blue screen error but I don't see KB973879 as part my recent updates… How do I resolve or what do I look for to rectify this error. I never had this problem before, but after several recent updates this error shows up more then frequently.

    Also, I don't have "System Restore" running, so that solution is out of question. But reading this page I am convinced that the error is because of recent windows update. I have even formatted and re-installed the Vista (twice) but same results after I ran the windows update.

    My System:

    Windows Vista 64-bit Home Premium
    HP M9400F
    8 GB RAM
    AMD Phenom 9750 Quad-Core Processor 2.40 GHz

    Any help, I would love it 🙂

  144. danbrown Avatar

    Hello,I appreciate your effort,but sill i am not able to solve this problem.
    Starting in safe mode shows the blue screen.
    And as my laptop is new i haven't not create any restore point.
    Kindly provide some solution.

  145. danbrown Avatar

    Hello,I appreciate your effort,but sill i am not able to solve this problem.
    Starting in safe mode shows the blue screen.
    And as my laptop is new i haven't not create any restore point.
    Kindly provide some solution.

  146. gguillotte Avatar
    gguillotte

    I have this problem on my Toshiba L305D-S5934, and will be trying this out shortly. Thanks so much for your work in narrowing down which update was causing this.

  147. gguillotte Avatar
    gguillotte

    I have this problem on my Toshiba L305D-S5934, and will be trying this out shortly. Thanks so much for your work in narrowing down which update was causing this.

  148. Penny Avatar
    Penny

    I'm also receiving this error but on my older HP desktop with XP – can you provide a fix for XP? Any help is greatly appreciated!

  149. Penny Avatar
    Penny

    I'm also receiving this error but on my older HP desktop with XP – can you provide a fix for XP? Any help is greatly appreciated!

  150. Bill Avatar
    Bill

    I also have the BSOD. Just got the HP and it crashes daily. I did this search and don't have that update. Is there another?

  151. Bill Avatar
    Bill

    I also have the BSOD. Just got the HP and it crashes daily. I did this search and don't have that update. Is there another?

  152. Larry Avatar
    Larry

    I just got a Lenovo Y550 a month ago with Windows 64 bit. Started crashing (freezing) repeatedly. Checked logs and stumbled upon your site. It hasn't had any issue for a week since I deleted that update.

    There is not a lot of info out there on Lenovo Y550 problems since they aren't very popular and are a relatively new series. Luckily I found this.

    Thanks!
    Larry

  153. Larry Avatar
    Larry

    I just got a Lenovo Y550 a month ago with Windows 64 bit. Started crashing (freezing) repeatedly. Checked logs and stumbled upon your site. It hasn't had any issue for a week since I deleted that update.

    There is not a lot of info out there on Lenovo Y550 problems since they aren't very popular and are a relatively new series. Luckily I found this.

    Thanks!
    Larry

  154. Bjarni Rúnar Avatar
    Bjarni Rúnar

    hello
    I have windows vista 64 bit. My computer name is Dell studio and I have the same problem. But I do not have the specific uptade you mentioned but I do have a couple of updates that are similar.
    Any help would be great
    Regards
    Bjarni

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hi Bjarni, What error message are you seeing in the blue screen?

  155. Bjarni Rúnar Avatar
    Bjarni Rúnar

    hello
    I have windows vista 64 bit. My computer name is Dell studio and I have the same problem. But I do not have the specific uptade you mentioned but I do have a couple of updates that are similar.
    Any help would be great
    Regards
    Bjarni

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hi Bjarni, What error message are you seeing in the blue screen?

  156. Bob Avatar
    Bob

    Hey i tried both methods and F8 works but it doesnt show repair computer, and when i go to safe mode, it shows all these words and files but goes straight from that to the blue screen error still….is there a way to fix that??

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hi Bob,

      If you have a Windows installation disc (or a restore disc provided by your computer's manufacturer) you can try using that to repair your computer.

      If you do have an OEM Windows installation disc, you can use that to enter Repair mode by following this guide: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/

  157. Bob Avatar
    Bob

    Hey i tried both methods and F8 works but it doesnt show repair computer, and when i go to safe mode, it shows all these words and files but goes straight from that to the blue screen error still….is there a way to fix that??

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hi Bob,

      If you have a Windows installation disc (or a restore disc provided by your computer's manufacturer) you can try using that to repair your computer.

      If you do have an OEM Windows installation disc, you can use that to enter Repair mode by following this guide: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/

  158. sweldin Avatar

    So i have the Dv4, just purchased September 4th. I think that this update is the cause of my sudden emotions to throw my laptop out of the window sometimes. (like in the middle of a huge research paper D=) but i did the first step and I was unable to find the correct update number, it seemed like I had every single one except that one….are there other updates that may have had the same effect like this one? Any suggestions for me? Thanks

    1. David Carman Avatar

      Unfortunately there are many different causes of Blue Screen of Death's (BSODs), this is only a guide to deal with this specific cause. Is the stop error code displayed on your screen the same as the one in the article or is it different? Can you post it here? Was the computer acting odd at all before the BSOD appeared? Had you just installed any new software or hardware? That will all help narrow down the possible cause.

    2. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      If you couldn't find the update mentioned in this article then it could likely be a hardware problem unrelated to this particular Windows Update. Could you post the error message you are seeing?

  159. sweldin Avatar

    So i have the Dv4, just purchased September 4th. I think that this update is the cause of my sudden emotions to throw my laptop out of the window sometimes. (like in the middle of a huge research paper D=) but i did the first step and I was unable to find the correct update number, it seemed like I had every single one except that one….are there other updates that may have had the same effect like this one? Any suggestions for me? Thanks

    1. David Carman Avatar

      Unfortunately there are many different causes of Blue Screen of Death's (BSODs), this is only a guide to deal with this specific cause. Is the stop error code displayed on your screen the same as the one in the article or is it different? Can you post it here? Was the computer acting odd at all before the BSOD appeared? Had you just installed any new software or hardware? That will all help narrow down the possible cause.

    2. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      If you couldn't find the update mentioned in this article then it could likely be a hardware problem unrelated to this particular Windows Update. Could you post the error message you are seeing?

  160. Blue Screen Error Avatar
    Blue Screen Error

    THANK YOU!! Great post. I finally found a place where someone actually shows people how to put their computer into safe mode!

  161. Blue Screen Error Avatar
    Blue Screen Error

    THANK YOU!! Great post. I finally found a place where someone actually shows people how to put their computer into safe mode!

  162. Sean Avatar
    Sean

    Just had this issue with a customers vista machine – think it was 32 bit. SP2 seemd to kill the machine, could not boot to safe mode, no restore points avail in system restore under 'repair my computer' in F8 boot. Was required to reinstall windows, upgrade the bios to latest version, upgrade ACHI (storage sp?) driver ( I somehow think that was the culprit), and updated ATI video, cant remember 3rd driver oh… Vista compatability update or somethink, THEN… install sp2 and then no problems whatsoever. What a pain in the ass – I would think MS is to blame here. Thing that bugs me is I cant be 100% sure what if any of the updates I did the trick – I wish someone would fess up to this mess thing…

    Sean

  163. Sean Avatar
    Sean

    Just had this issue with a customers vista machine – think it was 32 bit. SP2 seemd to kill the machine, could not boot to safe mode, no restore points avail in system restore under 'repair my computer' in F8 boot. Was required to reinstall windows, upgrade the bios to latest version, upgrade ACHI (storage sp?) driver ( I somehow think that was the culprit), and updated ATI video, cant remember 3rd driver oh… Vista compatability update or somethink, THEN… install sp2 and then no problems whatsoever. What a pain in the ass – I would think MS is to blame here. Thing that bugs me is I cant be 100% sure what if any of the updates I did the trick – I wish someone would fess up to this mess thing…

    Sean

  164. JJSoteria Avatar
    JJSoteria

    Thanks for this!

    Dealing with MS Tech Support has been a joke…they are treating this issue like I am the only one who has ever experienced this problem.

    Linux sounds better to me every day…

    I was formerly one of the three people in the world who actually liked Vista…until the SP2 BSOD and Technical Non-Support.

    All the best to you!

  165. JJSoteria Avatar
    JJSoteria

    Thanks for this!

    Dealing with MS Tech Support has been a joke…they are treating this issue like I am the only one who has ever experienced this problem.

    Linux sounds better to me every day…

    I was formerly one of the three people in the world who actually liked Vista…until the SP2 BSOD and Technical Non-Support.

    All the best to you!

  166. Ed Avatar
    Ed

    I am getting this when I start in safe mode What shoud I do now? Fellas help me

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hi Ed,

      If you're getting this error in safe mode, it might not be the problem I discussed in this article. Could you please post the exact error you're seeing on the blue screen?

  167. Ed  Avatar
    Ed

    I am getting this when I start in safe mode What shoud I do now? Fellas help me

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hi Ed,

      If you're getting this error in safe mode, it might not be the problem I discussed in this article. Could you please post the exact error you're seeing on the blue screen?

  168. noordheen Avatar
    noordheen

    I had this same problem with my dell inspiron 1545 32 bit as well…. i used the method of restoring ….. it works fine now i didn’t update my windows yet…. thanks for the article….

  169. noordheen Avatar
    noordheen

    I had this same problem with my dell inspiron 1545 32 bit as well…. i used the method of restoring ….. it works fine now i didn’t update my windows yet…. thanks for the article….

  170. Gary S Avatar
    Gary S

    I have Vista 64, I ran updates today, and 2 minutes after rebooting I got the BSOD. I do not have KB973879 in my list of installed updates, and I do not get a "Repair…." option when I hit F8 for Safe Mode options. I cannot uninstall anything once in Safe Mode because I get an error message saying that Windows Installer is not working. When I try to update Windows Installer, I get the BSOD. No clue how to fix this. If I can get to a normal desktop, I cannot run System Restore. In Safe Mode, System Restore isn't even in the menus. AFAIK, this machine is as good as dead. Thank You Bill Gates.

  171. Gary S Avatar
    Gary S

    I have Vista 64, I ran updates today, and 2 minutes after rebooting I got the BSOD. I do not have KB973879 in my list of installed updates, and I do not get a "Repair…." option when I hit F8 for Safe Mode options. I cannot uninstall anything once in Safe Mode because I get an error message saying that Windows Installer is not working. When I try to update Windows Installer, I get the BSOD. No clue how to fix this. If I can get to a normal desktop, I cannot run System Restore. In Safe Mode, System Restore isn't even in the menus. AFAIK, this machine is as good as dead. Thank You Bill Gates.

  172. Gary S Avatar
    Gary S

    Sorry, I forgot to include my machine make….. Dell Optiplex 740.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hi Gary,

      There are a couple things you can try. If your computer came with a restore CD you can use that to attempt to repair your system.

      Your computer may have come equipped with a recovery partition. When starting up your computer you may see the option to press a Function key to access it – but this varies by model. You can contact your manufacturer about this to verify.

      If you have a Windows Vista installation disc (which can be obtained through your manufacturer typically if you call them) you can reboot the computer with the disc in the tray and access recovery mode from the disc.

      Hope that can be of some help!

  173. Gary S Avatar
    Gary S

    Sorry, I forgot to include my machine make….. Dell Optiplex 740.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hi Gary,

      There are a couple things you can try. If your computer came with a restore CD you can use that to attempt to repair your system.

      Your computer may have come equipped with a recovery partition. When starting up your computer you may see the option to press a Function key to access it – but this varies by model. You can contact your manufacturer about this to verify.

      If you have a Windows Vista installation disc (which can be obtained through your manufacturer typically if you call them) you can reboot the computer with the disc in the tray and access recovery mode from the disc.

      Hope that can be of some help!

  174. Yvonne Avatar
    Yvonne

    Thanks for the info! I've had several blue screens on my Dell Studio, just about a year old with Vista 64bit. Always after windows updates. Usually I can just boot it normally, but this weekend, it would not boot. I did finally have to do a system restore from an earlier date then the system repair did, and it booted nornmally. I will go in and delete this update, if it boots (I have not booted it since doing the system restore and it booted normally). I do wonder why MS has nothing posted on this. It sounds like it's a real problem and makes me nervous on downloading any update for it. I am thinking of upgrading to windows 7. Any problems with updates on it? Again, thanks! This site rocks.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hi Yvonne,

      Thanks for the comment! I've been using Windows 7 for about 6 months now and haven't experienced any blue screens after Windows updates. That isn't a guarantee though, many blue screens are caused by hardware incompatibilities (so one update can cause a blue screen on one type of computer and be fine on another).

      Good luck!

      Evan

      1. Yvonne Avatar
        Yvonne

        Thanks Evan. it's Vista though i get the blue screens on, not 7. I am thinking of updating my Vista to 7. I have done nothing to it other then add a speaker that is plugged into the USB port, and it's not after all updates just happens more often than I am comfortable with. This last weekend it would not come up after a recovery and I had to go back further than the system had defaulted at. I have made no changes to it in months other than MS updates. For now I have the updates turned to let me install them so I can test it out and see what the updates are for before install. The instructions you had in your post (I know this was from August of last year) was the error I recieved.
        Again, nice site. And thank you for the reply!!
        Yvonne

  175. Yvonne Avatar
    Yvonne

    Thanks for the info! I've had several blue screens on my Dell Studio, just about a year old with Vista 64bit. Always after windows updates. Usually I can just boot it normally, but this weekend, it would not boot. I did finally have to do a system restore from an earlier date then the system repair did, and it booted nornmally. I will go in and delete this update, if it boots (I have not booted it since doing the system restore and it booted normally). I do wonder why MS has nothing posted on this. It sounds like it's a real problem and makes me nervous on downloading any update for it. I am thinking of upgrading to windows 7. Any problems with updates on it? Again, thanks! This site rocks.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hi Yvonne,

      Thanks for the comment! I've been using Windows 7 for about 6 months now and haven't experienced any blue screens after Windows updates. That isn't a guarantee though, many blue screens are caused by hardware incompatibilities (so one update can cause a blue screen on one type of computer and be fine on another).

      Good luck!

      Evan

      1. Yvonne Avatar
        Yvonne

        Thanks Evan. it's Vista though i get the blue screens on, not 7. I am thinking of updating my Vista to 7. I have done nothing to it other then add a speaker that is plugged into the USB port, and it's not after all updates just happens more often than I am comfortable with. This last weekend it would not come up after a recovery and I had to go back further than the system had defaulted at. I have made no changes to it in months other than MS updates. For now I have the updates turned to let me install them so I can test it out and see what the updates are for before install. The instructions you had in your post (I know this was from August of last year) was the error I recieved.
        Again, nice site. And thank you for the reply!!
        Yvonne

  176. xxx Avatar
    xxx

    it didnt work at all… when i use safe mode it goes to blue sreen… when i use repair it goes again… pls help…

  177. xxx Avatar
    xxx

    it didnt work at all… when i use safe mode it goes to blue sreen… when i use repair it goes again… pls help…

  178. Jay Avatar
    Jay

    i've had the same problem occur twice. I have the pavillion dv2 1080us with windows 7 upgrade. Some earlier this month I was receiving the error message every time I started windows and spent over an hour with hp support techs and all I did was perform a system restore. shortly after (within a week or so), my computer automatically updated again and I started having blue error screens when I plug into an external monitor via hdmi. Again, I spent hours on the phone with hp support and their resolution was to back everything up and reformat to start fresh! I didn't want to do that, I was furious because this is a fairly new computer and I shouldn't be having this type of problem. so instead, I went again and did a systems restore and picked a point sometime in January. then i changed my settings for doing windows updates to bypass the update that was causing me problems then after a week or so reconfigured it so that it'll install updates after KB973879. btw great post, if I knew that other people were having the same issues I would've been more at ease! I was going off on the techs at HP =(

  179. Jay Avatar
    Jay

    i've had the same problem occur twice. I have the pavillion dv2 1080us with windows 7 upgrade. Some earlier this month I was receiving the error message every time I started windows and spent over an hour with hp support techs and all I did was perform a system restore. shortly after (within a week or so), my computer automatically updated again and I started having blue error screens when I plug into an external monitor via hdmi. Again, I spent hours on the phone with hp support and their resolution was to back everything up and reformat to start fresh! I didn't want to do that, I was furious because this is a fairly new computer and I shouldn't be having this type of problem. so instead, I went again and did a systems restore and picked a point sometime in January. then i changed my settings for doing windows updates to bypass the update that was causing me problems then after a week or so reconfigured it so that it'll install updates after KB973879. btw great post, if I knew that other people were having the same issues I would've been more at ease! I was going off on the techs at HP =(

  180. afiq Avatar
    afiq

    Please help me!!!!

    I cannot enter the safe mode…it keeps restarting….
    Blue screen also appeared if i use the Windows Vista DVD installation…

    Problem occured when it failed to install Windows Service Pack 1…..

  181. afiq Avatar
    afiq

    Please help me!!!!

    I cannot enter the safe mode…it keeps restarting….
    Blue screen also appeared if i use the Windows Vista DVD installation…

    Problem occured when it failed to install Windows Service Pack 1…..

  182. Vivek Avatar

    I don't have that particular update you have mentioned. But today morning I allowed to install KB971033, and in the evening ,after returning from office, my firefox was continuously crashing, and finally windows also crashed with bsod. And on restart, it got stuck at BIOS loading page. Pressing F2 didn't work, but ESC did. There too, if I press F2 to get into setup, it says "Entering Setup" and gets stuck there.
    I did a hard reset [ 🙁 ], and OS booted. Is my case, the same as the one you have mentioned? if so, does uninstalling the update prove effective? Mine is 1555 Dell Studio, bought hardly 2 months ago.

  183. Vivek Avatar

    I don't have that particular update you have mentioned. But today morning I allowed to install KB971033, and in the evening ,after returning from office, my firefox was continuously crashing, and finally windows also crashed with bsod. And on restart, it got stuck at BIOS loading page. Pressing F2 didn't work, but ESC did. There too, if I press F2 to get into setup, it says "Entering Setup" and gets stuck there.
    I did a hard reset [ 🙁 ], and OS booted. Is my case, the same as the one you have mentioned? if so, does uninstalling the update prove effective? Mine is 1555 Dell Studio, bought hardly 2 months ago.

  184. d3m1 Avatar
    d3m1

    I am running 64 bit Windows Vista and have experienced the BSOD since my 1st week owning this Dell Studio 17. I have turned off all updates because I am not savvy enough to know which to let update and which to stop. I am starting to have serious issues with this laptop and wonder if upgrading to Windows 7 will stop the BSOD from occuring with updates. Any suggestions?

  185. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

    Upgrading to Windows 7 unfortunately won't guarantee you won't get blue screen errors anymore, especially if you have defective hardware on your computer.

    Windows 7 does have much better driver support than Windows Vista, which is a common cause of blue screen errors, so it's certainly worth a try if you were looking to upgrade.

  186. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

    If your computer is crashing before it launches the operating system (i.e. freezing when entering the BIOS setup) then the problem is probably unrelated to this Windows Update problem.

  187. McNeelyJ Avatar
    McNeelyJ

    I have a dell inspiron with windows 7 (64 bit) neither of these solution work for me, get blue screen of death trying to do repair computer or safe mode, or restore to last known good configuration. Nothing will let me get past the BSOD.

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      Hi McNeelyJ,

      I’m sorry to say that this guide was only written for Windows Vista 64-bit, and is most likely unrelated to any blue screens caused in Windows 7.

  188. Shamoescapay Avatar
    Shamoescapay

    Will this work for Windows 7 64-Bit? Thanks

    1. Evan Wondrasek Avatar

      This guide was written for a specific problematic Windows Update in Windows Vista, so it should not be considered a solution to a similar problem in Windows 7.

  189. Samstheman Avatar
    Samstheman

    just got a blue screen after shutting down computer and restarting chsk? something about the c drive corrupt files and then it starts scanning and repairing? then I have all the desktop icons back and everything is working. but what oh what is the real issue? what do I need to do next? sam the man

  190. John Avatar
    John

    Same thing just happened to me. I tried booting in safe mode and that didn’t work. Tried system recovery and restore….didn’t work either. My logon screen will appear. I’ll type my password and hit enter and the blue screen appears. Any other suggestions?

  191. Skym0366 Avatar
    Skym0366

    Hi i dont know if you will still reply. But anyway i tried this but my laptop still wont work. What happened was i tried to uninstall microsoft office then boom. Blue screen!!!
     
    i cant do system restore.
    i cant go thru safe mode. or any other modes.
    please help me. i have all my files here. please 

  192. johnny Avatar
    johnny

    i bought a hp p6523w back in march it has been to hp repair center 3 times i just got it back aug 10 and 4 days later it gives me the blue screen again they have repaired the cpu twice and still keeps breaking down i feel like i purchased a used woreout p.c instead of a new one.

  193. Ninawitteveen Avatar
    Ninawitteveen

    Hi, don’t know if this forum is still active, I have an acer laptop someone brought for me to fix.. lol and they guy formated it without a backup CD and it has this blue screen.. I have tried to reinstall windows 7 but it won’t let me. Do you have any sugestions of how to get rid of this blue screen when I can’t go into safe mode and can’t restore it?
    Oh and it is tempermental if it even turns on.. luck of the draw.. but it’s driving me crazy.
    I really hope someone can help me

  194. Faissani Avatar
    Faissani

    I have the same issue, went through the steps and I found this update: KB970653, kb 973874.
    should I unistall them? I have HP vista. thank you

  195. ShaunaKay Bethune Avatar

    I Am Using Windows XP…Can You Help Me Please

  196. Lenore Avatar
    Lenore

    I have a homemade computer by my son, that has worked perfectly. I needed storage, so he put in a new hard drive and now I get ‘blue screen’. He took the computer back to Kansas City where he works and it works fine. It comes back down to Camp Point and I get the blue screen again. I do find I get it less when I shut down instead of sleep when I am done with computer. Why can this be?

  197. johnson dell Avatar
    johnson dell

    For Antivirus Tech support contact on 1-800-935-0537

    http://computertechsupport.us/

  198. global Avatar
    global

    For XP Window Support

    Contact:1-800-935-0357

    http://www.computertechsupport.us/

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