Encountering the BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER BSOD error during Windows 10/11 installation is a common problem. Many users have reported experiencing the same blue screen error, and while some have solved it by simply restarting their computers, others have had to try different solutions. In this article, we will explore what this error is and provide some possible solutions.
What Is the BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER Error?
The BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER error usually appears while updating or installing Windows 10/11. That said, it is safe to assume that it could be associated with a faulty driver that has been loaded for a certain network device in the process of updating. With a problematic driver running, your system may command an abrupt shutdown of your computer. This way, further data loss and damage are prevented.
Other Causes of the BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER Blue Screen Error
Apart from faulty drivers, there are many potential causes of the BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER BSOD error. These include the following:
- Incorrect configuration of device drivers
- Corrupted device drivers
- Windows registry corruption caused by installing or uninstalling an app
- Malware infection
- Driver incompatibility
- Damaged system files
- Corrupted RAM
6 Feasible Solutions to Try to Fix the BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER Error
So, how do you fix the BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER BSOD error on Windows 10/11? Here are six solutions to try:
Expert Tip: For smoother PC performance, consider using a PC optimization tool. It handles junk files, incorrect settings, and harmful apps. Make sure it's right for your system, and always check the EULA and Privacy Policy.
Special offer. About Outbyte, uninstall instructions, EULA, Privacy Policy.
Solution #1: Be Sure That Windows 10/11 Is Up to Date.
Software and hardware issues are among the most common causes of BSOD errors like the BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER BSOD error. To avoid or fix these issues, experts recommend updating Windows 10/11 by using the Windows Update utility. Download the latest patches as they often come with fixes to the reported issues with the previous Windows versions.
Solution #2: Ensure Your Drivers Are Updated.
Oftentimes, your drivers cause BSOD errors to appear. This is because they might no longer be compatible with your newly updated Windows 10/11 OS. To ensure your computer is free of errors, make it a habit to update your drivers regularly.
Updating your drivers is easy. You can do it by simply visiting the website of the hardware manufacturer and downloading the latest drivers for your device. It’s that easy! However, it is worth noting that not all driver versions support your computer. To be safe, we suggest that you use Outbyte Driver Updater.
This tool scans your computer for any missing, corrupted, or outdated drivers and lets you quickly update them to the most recent and stable versions. It also prevents any driver-related errors and helps your computer run faster and more efficiently.
Solution #3: Disable Your WiFi Adapter Software.
According to some users, there seems to be a problem with certain WiFi adapter programs for Windows 10/11. They are claiming that these programs are causing Windows BSOD errors to occur, including the BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER BSOD error.
As a possible workaround, we suggest that you unplug your WiFi adapter before starting your computer. Better yet, close or disable your WiFi adapter program and run it as soon as your computer starts.
Solution #4: Revert to the Previous Driver Version.
Obviously, the BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER BSOD error is mostly triggered by problematic drivers. So, to potentially solve the error, try reverting back to the previous version of your driver.
To install the previous version of a driver, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows and X keys to launch the Power User menu.
- Choose Device Manager.
- As soon as the Device Manager opens, find your WiFi adapter and double-click on it.
- Go to the Driver tab.
- Hit the Roll Back Driver button.
- Follow the onscreen prompts to revert to the previous version of your driver.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes.
In the event that you are unable to roll back to the previous driver version, run your computer in Safe Mode. Here’s how:
- Press and hold the Shift key and Power button.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Click Advanced Options.
- Choose Startup Settings.
- Hit Restart.
- Once your computer restarts successfully, you will be greeted by a number of options. Choose Safe Mode with Networking by simply pressing the F5 key.
The moment you enter Safe Mode, revert to the previous version of your WiFi adapter driver. You may also uninstall the faulty driver and download an older version of it.
Solution #5: Perform a Clean Boot.
Performing a Clean Boot before updating your Windows 10/11 OS version can resolve the BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER BSOD error. Follow these steps to perform a Clean Boot:
- Press the Windows and R keys.
- Into the text field, input msconfig.
- Hit Enter.
- The Windows Configuration window should now appear. Choose Selective startup and untick the Load startup items option.
- Navigate to the Services tab.
- Check the Hide All Microsoft Services option.
- Click the Disable All button.
- Hit Apply and then If you are prompted to restart your computer, just ignore it.
- Now, open the Task Manager by pressing the CTRL, Shift, and Esc keys.
- As soon as the Task Manager opens, go to the Startup tab.
- Right-click on every entry on the list and click Disable.
- Once you are done, close the Task Manager.
- Reboot your computer and wait for the changes to take effect.
Solution #6: Remove System Junk and Unnecessary Files.
More often than not, viruses and malware disguise themselves as system junk. By running a quick system scan, you can identify these harmful files and delete them as needed.
One of the easiest ways to remove system junk is by installing a third-party PC Repair tool. With a reliable PC repair tool, you can scan your system automatically and locate junk files that are causing your system to crash.
Conclusion
BSOD errors, like the BUGCODE_NDIS_DRIVER error, aren’t always as fatal as you think. While most of them occur because of an outdated driver, others are triggered by system junk. But regardless of what’s causing these errors to appear, it is great to know that there are many feasible solutions you can try.
Then again, if you are not confident about your troubleshooting skills, we strongly suggest that you seek the help of experts. Have a professional technician check your computer and ask for the best possible recommendations to fix your problem.
Which of these solutions have you tried? How was your experience? Let us know in the comments!