The “Thread Stuck in Device Driver” error usually indicates a problem with a device driver, most commonly the graphics driver, that has become unresponsive. This can happen after a Windows update due to compatibility issues or corrupted driver files. Identified by the stop code 0x000000EA, this error can cause the system to freeze or crash and display a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). Well, the actual reason behind this problem could vary from incompatibility between driver software to Corrupted system files to physical damage to specific devices. Users reported experiencing Thread Stuck in Device Drivers error after updating an NVIDIA graphics card driver or while using Photoshop. Whatever the reason, here are step-by-step solutions to help you diagnose and fix the issue, getting your Windows 11 system back on track.
What Causes the “Thread Stuck In Device Driver” Error?
Most of times, Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) occur because your system is struggling with a hardware driver, most commonly the graphics driver. So outdated drivers, driver conflicts, overheating, Corrupted System Files or, rarely a faulty hardware are common reasons behind this BSOD error.
The error is primarily software-related but can stem from hardware issues.
- Outdated or Corrupted Drivers: Graphics (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD) or audio drivers that are incompatible with your Windows version.
- Driver Conflicts: Recently installed software or hardware is causing conflicts with existing drivers.
- Overheating: High GPU or CPU temperatures can lock up hardware, triggering the error.
- Overclocking: Aggressive overclocking settings strain your hardware.
- Corrupted System Files: Damaged Windows files interfering with driver operations.
- Faulty Hardware: Rarely, a damaged video card or loose hardware connection.
Note: If you can’t boot into Windows normally, restart your PC and enter Safe Mode. This allows you to apply fixes without crashes.
Update Your Graphics Driver
Outdated or corrupted drivers, especially the Graphics driver, are one of the most common reasons behind the Thread Stuck In Device Driver Error on Windows 11. If, for some reason, the GPU driver is corrupted or its outdated, it may fail to execute tasks properly, getting “stuck” in a loop and triggering this BSOD. Updating the driver to the latest version helps most users fix such blue screen errors on their computer.
- Right-click the Start button and choose Device Manager.
- Expand Display adapters. Right-click your GPU (Intel, AMD, or NVIDIA) and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers to let Windows search for newer versions.
- If Windows finds a new driver, install it and restart your computer.
If updating doesn’t work, try a clean reinstallation:
- In Device Manager, right-click your graphics driver and select Uninstall device.
- Check the box that says “Attempt to remove the driver for this device” if available. and follow on on-screen instructions to remove the current driver.
- Once done, reboot your computer. Windows may automatically reinstall a generic driver.
Alternatively, you can visit the manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download and install the latest compatible driver for your specific graphics card and Windows 11 version.
Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Windows 11 hides several legacy troubleshooters that are still very effective. Running the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter can scan and help fix issues with drivers, hardware configuration, and power settings.
- Open the Run dialog (Windows + R),
- Type msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic and press the Enter key
- Follow the on-screen prompts to detect and fix issues.
This built-in tool can resolve driver conflicts automatically or at least point you toward the failing hardware component.
Check for Windows Updates
In addition to security patches, Windows Updates also include critical driver and firmware updates that can resolve compatibility issues, especially for newer hardware running on Windows 11. Let’s check and install the latest Windows updates that may have a fix for this BSOD error.
Note: This needs internet access. Press F5 while accessing safe mode to enable Networking and the internet.
- Open Settings using the Windows key + I and go to Windows Update.
- Hit the Click Check for updates button,
- Install all pending updates, especially optional updates, which may include third-party drivers.
- Restart your PC and verify if the issue is resolved.
Even if your PC is up to date feature-wise, optional updates often include GPU driver patches and security fixes that can stabilize your system.
Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Again, Corrupt system files can cause instability in driver operations. Running SFC and DISM commands helps scan and repair your Windows image and essential files. SFC checks individual files against a trusted version, while DISM checks the entire system against a clean image.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator by searching for “cmd”, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
- Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
- Wait for the scan to complete (it may take 10–20 minutes). Restart your PC.
Next, run the DISM restorehealth command, DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Note: DISM uses Windows Update to restore files, so ensure the device has working internet.
Let the scanning complete 100%, then reboot your PC. These tools help ensure Windows is functioning on a clean base, free of system-level corruption that may lead to BSODs.
Disable Fast Startup
The Fast Startup allows Windows 11 to boot up quickly, but it can also preserve a corrupted driver state across reboots. Disabling Fast Startup forces the system to initialize hardware and drivers freshly each time, which can prevent recurring errors.
- Press Windows + R, type powercfg.cpl, and press Enter.
- Click Choose what the power buttons do > Change settings that are currently unavailable.
- Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended).
- Click Save changes, restart your PC, and test for the error.
Check GPU for Overheating or Hardware Failures
Again, if your GPU or CPU overheats, it can cause drivers to crash or hang unexpectedly.
- Use monitoring tools like HWMonitor, Speccy, or MSI Afterburner to check GPU/CPU temperatures.
- Make sure the PC is well-ventilated and free from dust buildup.
- Clean internal fans and heat sinks.
- Replace thermal paste on the GPU/CPU if temperatures are unusually high.
- For laptops, use a cooling pad to reduce temperatures.
In addition, if possible, test the system with another graphics card or try the card in another machine to rule out physical defects.
Update BIOS or UEFI Firmware
In some cases, an outdated BIOS may not support new drivers or hardware features introduced in Windows 11, causing communication errors between hardware and software layers. Visit your motherboard or computer manufacturer’s support website to check for and install the latest BIOS update.
- Find your motherboard or laptop model (via System Information or manual).
- Visit the official support site of the device manufacturer.
- Download the latest BIOS update along with instructions.
- Follow all update instructions carefully.
Updating the BIOS incorrectly can damage your system. Ensure your PC is plugged in and backed up before proceeding.
Reset or Reinstall Windows 11
If nothing else works, resetting Windows 11 removes deep-rooted software problems, registry corruption, and misconfigured system files by reinstalling the operating system.
Note: Use this as a final option, especially if you suspect software corruption but your hardware appears functional.
- Go to Settings > System > Recovery (or Update & Security > Recovery).
- Under “Reset this PC,” click Get started.
- Choose to keep your files or remove everything, and follow the prompts.
Tips to avoid future BSODs on Windows 11:
- Update Drivers Regularly: Check manufacturer websites monthly for graphics and audio driver updates.
- Monitor System Health: Use tools like HWMonitor to track temperatures and prevent overheating.
- Avoid Unofficial Tools: Stick to official drivers and Windows utilities to prevent conflicts.
- Keep Windows Updated: Enable automatic updates for the latest patches.
- Backup Data: Use Windows Backup or cloud services to protect files from crashes.
- Limit Overclocking: Use default hardware settings unless you’re an expert.
