Top Solutions for VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR in Windows

Jul. 24, 2025 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows 10

video-dxgkrnl-fatal-error-solutions

VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR is a common Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error, often related to graphics drivers or DirectX. It frequently occurs during gaming, watching high-definition videos, or after a system update.

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the causes behind this error and offers several effective solutions to help you quickly troubleshoot the issue and restore system stability.

What Is VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR?

VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR is a BSOD error code in Windows that indicates a critical failure in the graphics core component (DXGKRNL.SYS). Common causes include:

Corrupted, outdated, or incompatible graphics drivers
Damaged system files
Malfunctioning DirectX components
Incorrect BIOS settings (e.g., overclocking enabled)
Incompatible hardware or GPU failure

Solutions for VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR

Solution 1: Update Graphics Drivers

Driver issues are one of the most common causes of this error. For users unfamiliar with manually downloading and installing drivers, it's recommended to use a driver management tool like Driver Talent. It automatically detects missing or faulty drivers and offers one-click repair.

Download Driver Talent

Click the download button to get the latest version of Driver Talent. Install and open the tool, then click "Scan".
After the scan, it will list all missing or outdated drivers. Locate your graphics driver and click "Update".

driver-update

Once updated, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.

Solution 2: Run a DirectX Repair Tool

Corrupted DirectX components may also trigger this error. You can:

Download and run a DirectX repair tool.
Ensure that the latest version of DirectX is installed on your system.

Solution 3: Perform a System File Check

Open Command Prompt as administrator.

Type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow

perform-a-system-file-check

The system will scan for and repair corrupted system files.

Solution 4: Check for Windows Updates

Click the Start button and go to "Settings" > "Update & Security".

Under "Windows Update", click "Check for updates".

check-for-updates

If updates are available, click "Download and install".

Restart your computer after installation.

Solution 5: Restore BIOS Settings

If you've enabled overclocking, it might be causing instability in your graphics hardware:

Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup (commonly by pressing F2 or Del).
Look for "Load Optimized Defaults" or "Restore Default Settings".
Save and exit BIOS.

After rebooting, check if the BSOD persists.

Solution 6: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type "mdsched.exe", and hit Enter.

Click "Restart now and check for problems (recommended)".

run-windows-memory-diagnostic-tool

Your system will reboot and automatically check your memory. This may take several minutes.

Once completed, the results will be shown after logging back in.

Solution 7: Reset the PC

Go to "Settings" > "Update & Security" > "Recovery".

Under "Reset this PC", click "Get started".

click-get-started

Choose either "Keep my files" or "Remove everything".

Select "Cloud download" or "Local reinstall", then follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

Note: Choosing to remove everything will delete all your data. Make sure to back up important files beforehand.

How to Prevent VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR in the Future

Regularly update your graphics drivers and Windows system patches.
Avoid installing software from untrusted sources.
Do not overclock excessively to ensure hardware stability.
Use reliable driver management tools like Driver Talent for automatic driver maintenance.