How to Fix WDF_VIOLATION BSOD on Windows?

Blue screen of deaths or BSODs are pretty common among Windows devices. When they occur, they usually cause frustration and panic because users can’t do anything as all activities and functions get cancelled.

One of the known BSOD errors that Windows 10/11 users encounter is the WDF_VIOLATION BSDO.

What Is WDF_VIOLATION error on Windows 10/11?

WDF_VIOLATION or the Windows Driver Framework Violation is an error that indicates Windows has detected an error on a framework-based driver. It may show after a Windows update or at any random situation.

Like any other BSODs, the WDF_VIOLATION BSOD error can be fixed. And the course of action depends on the root cause of the issue. So, what causes the WDF_VIOLATION error to appear?

What Causes WDF_VIOLATION on Windows 10/11?

Based on research, the WDF_VIOLATION BSOD is primarily triggered by a problematic HP keyboard driver that is compatible with the Windows version of the PC. But then again, there could be other reasons. These include:

• Malware and virus attack
• Problems with USB peripherals
• Corrupted or damaged system files
• Issues with the Bluetooth driver or other device driver
• Outdated device drivers

9 Ways to Resolve the WDF_VIOLATION Blue Screen Error on Windows

So, how do you fix the WDF_VIOLATION BSOD issue on your Windows 10/11?

First, scan your device using a trusted anti-malware solution. This will ensure that no additional problems will arise while fixing the error. And then, you can follow up using any of the solutions listed below.

Solution #1: Fix the problematic device driver

As mentioned above, a faulty driver can trigger the WDF_VIOLATION BSOD. To fix the issue, fix the problematic driver. Here’s how:

1. Launch the Windows Recovery Environment.
2. Navigate to Troubleshoot and select Advanced Options.
3. Choose Command Prompt.
4. Into the command line, input the following command: dism /Image:C:\ /Remove-Driver/Driver: c:\Windows\System32\driverstore\FileRepository\hpqkbfiltr.inf_amd64_714aca0508a80e9a\HpqKbFiltr.inf.
5. Hit Enter.
6. Exit the Windows Recovery Environment and check if the BSOD error persists.

Solution #2: Disconnect any USB peripheral

It is possible that this BSOD error may be caused by a faulty USB peripheral. Thus, try to disconnect all USB peripherals from your device to resolve the error. Include everything, such as the microphone, camera, and mouse.

If disconnecting the USB peripherals doesn’t work, try to disable the USB ports by following these steps:

1. Restart your PC and keep pressing F2 to enter BIOS.
2. Go to Advanced and click the Miscellaneous Devices option.
3. Select External USB ports.
4. Choose Disable External USB ports.
5. Save the changes and exit the BIOS.
6. Restart Windows 10/11 and check if the WDF_VIOLATION BSOD still shows.

Solution #3: Enter Safe Mode and uninstall the problematic device driver

Many Windows 10/11 users have reportedly gotten rid of the problem by uninstalling the faulty device driver while in Safe Mode. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do:

1. Enter the Windows Recovery Environment.
2. Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options.
3. Select Startup Settings and click Restart. This will open the Startup Settings window.
4. Press F5 to choose Enable Safe Mode with Networking to launch your computer in Safe Mode.
5. Now, press the Windows + X keys and select Device Manager.
6. Find the problematic device driver and right-click on it.
7. Select Uninstall Device.
8. In the window that pops up, tick the Delete the driver software for this device option and hit Uninstall.
9. Restart your PC and check if this solution worked.

Solution #4: Run the Startup Repair utility

If entering the Windows Safe Mode isn’t possible, try to run the Startup Repair utility. It’s an easy way to resolve the problem.

To run Startup Repair, do the following:

1. Launch the Windows Recovery Environment and select Repair your computer.
2. And then, navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options. Select Startup Repair.
3. Click the operating system you want to fix.
4. Wait for Windows to identify the problem. It will automatically fix it.
5. Restart your PC.

Solution #5: Perform a System Restore

Another quick and easy way to resolve the WDF_VIOLATION BSOD is through System Restore. This utility is designed to fix issues that slow down your PC or revert Windows to a previously working state.

Take note that you can only use this solution if you have created a restore point before. If you have, then follow these steps:

1. While in Safe Mode, launch Search by pressing the Windows + S keys simultaneously.
2. Into the text field, type restore and select the Create a restore point option.
3. And then, navigate to the System Protection tab and select System Restore.
4. Hit Next to proceed.
5. Choose the restore point you want to use. Click Next again.
6. Follow the onscreen prompts to complete the system restoration process.

Solution #6: Use the System File Checker utility

Damaged system files can cause the WDF_VIOLATION error to occur. To fix these files, you may use the System File Checker utility in Safe Mode. Here’s how:

1. Run the Command Prompt with administrator privilege.
2. Into the command line, type the sfc /scannow command and hit Enter.
3. Wait for the process to complete, and then reboot your PC.

Solution #7: Reinstall or reset Windows 10/11

If the error still persists after trying the solutions above, try to reinstall or reset Windows 10/11. Hopefully, it could resolve the WDF_VIOLATION BSOD error.

These steps will guide you on how to do it:

1. Back up your disk.
2. And then, create a bootable flash drive.
3. Connect the media to your computer and configure your BIOS settings to boot from it.
4. Right-click on your system partition and select Data Recovery.
5. Once the scanning process is done, tick all the files you still need and hit Save.
6. Now, reinstall or reset Windows. All you need to do is enter the Windows Recovery Environment and select Troubleshoot.
7. Click Reset this PC.
8. Follow the instructions to complete the reset process.

Solution #8: Scan for possible malware

Some Windows 10/11 users said that the culprit behind the BSOD error is an unwanted third-party program. So, to resolve it, it is recommended to perform a complete system scan using a reliable antivirus solution. After that, if you find any unwanted entity, remove it and check if the problem persists.

Solution #9: Update any outdated device drivers

If you have any outdated device drivers, it is possible that you will come across the WDF_VIOLATION BSOD error. Therefore, check if you have any outdated device driver and update it.

Here’s how:

1. Right-click on the Windows menu and select Device Manager.
2. Expand all the sections and check if there are any that displays a yellow exclamation point. If you see one, it means that the driver needs to be updated or is corrupted.
3. If this is the case, right-click on it and select Update Driver.

Alternatively, you can use a third-party device driver updater tool to make the process quick. In just a few clicks, any outdated driver should be updated. Plus, you need not worry about compatibility issues.

Wrapping Up

There you have it! These are some solutions that worked in resolving the WDF_VIOLATION BSOD error on Windows 10/11. Try them in the recommended order above or test your luck by randomly choosing a solution.

But before you try any of them, be sure you have a backup of your important files. Also, have a backup of your disk. That way, you can conveniently boot from it in the event that your system crashes or errors come up.

If you have anything to add about the WDF_VIOLATION BSOD, please share it with us by commenting below. Or if you know anyone who may need this, do share it.