DRIVER_PORTION_MUST_BE_NONPAGED: How to Fix BSOD Error 0x000000D3 Like a Pro

What is BSOD Error 0x000000D3?

The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with the stop code 0x000000D3, labeled "DRIVER_PORTION_MUST_BE_NONPAGED," signals a critical issue: the system attempted to access pageable memory at a high IRQL (Interrupt Request Level), which it shouldn’t do.

In simple terms, a driver tried to access memory that could be swapped out (pageable), but it happened during a time when the system wasn't allowed to wait for that memory to be loaded—causing a fatal error and a system crash.

What Does It Mean?

• Pageable memory: Memory that can be moved to disk when not in use.
• IRQL too high: The system was handling a high-priority task (like hardware interrupts) and didn’t expect delays.
• DRIVER_PORTION_MUST_BE_NONPAGED: Means the driver needed memory that is always resident in physical RAM (non-paged), but it attempted to use memory that could be paged out.

Common Causes of 0x000000D3 BSOD

1. Faulty or outdated drivers (especially network, graphics, or chipset drivers).
2. Incompatible or buggy third-party kernel-mode software.
3. Memory corruption or failing RAM.
4. Conflicts from recently installed hardware or software.
5. Overclocking instabilities.
6. Malware or rootkit infections interfering with driver behavior.
7. Corrupted system files or registry entries.

How to Fix BSOD Error 0x000000D3

1. Boot Into Safe Mode

Safe Mode loads only essential drivers. If the BSOD doesn’t occur here, it’s likely a third-party driver or service is to blame.

• Restart your PC and press F8 or Shift + F8 (or use Recovery Options > Advanced Startup > Startup Settings > Enable Safe Mode).
• Choose Safe Mode with Networking.

2. Update or Roll Back Drivers

Bad drivers are the #1 cause of this error.

• Open Device Manager (Win + X > Device Manager).
• Focus on network adapters, graphics cards, and storage controllers.
• Right-click > Update driver, or Roll back driver if the issue started after a recent update.

Use vendor tools:

• Intel Driver & Support Assistant
• AMD Adrenalin Software
• NVIDIA GeForce Experience

3. Run Driver Verifier

Driver Verifier helps identify bad drivers but may trigger intentional BSODs to highlight the culprit.

• In the Run dialog (Win + R), type:
  verifier
• Select Create standard settings > Automatically select all drivers.
• Reboot your PC and use it normally.
• If BSOD recurs, note the driver file shown on the screen.
• Disable Driver Verifier afterward:
  
  • Run: verifier /reset
  • Reboot

4. Check for Memory Issues

Faulty RAM can cause illegal memory access at high IRQL.

• Run Windows Memory Diagnostic:
  mdsched.exe → Choose Restart now and check for problems
• Or use MemTest86 for more advanced checking.

5. Scan for Malware

Malicious software can tamper with drivers and system memory.

• Use Windows Defender Offline Scan or a tool like Malwarebytes.
• Also consider scanning with a bootable antivirus tool.

6. Uninstall Recently Installed Hardware/Software

If the BSOD appeared after installing new components or drivers:

• Remove the hardware.
• Uninstall the associated driver or software.
• Reboot and check stability.

7. System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files might mimic driver issues.

• Run Command Prompt as Administrator and enter:
  sfc /scannow
• After that, run:
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

8. Windows Updates

Ensure your system has the latest security and driver updates.

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
• Click Check for updates.

Tips to Prevent BSOD 0x000000D3 in the Future

• Keep drivers and firmware up to date via vendor sites or Windows Update.
• Avoid using beta or unsigned drivers.
• Don’t overclock unless you thoroughly test system stability.
• Create regular restore points and system image backups.
• Use reliable antivirus software to prevent rootkits and driver-level threats.
• Consider setting Driver Verifier periodically to proactively detect misbehaving drivers.

Technical Details for Advanced Users

• Bug Check Code: 0x000000D3

Parameters:
1 – Memory address that was referenced  

2 – IRQL at time of reference  

3 – Operation (0 = read, 1 = write)  

• 4 – Address of the driver that referenced memory

Analyze with WinDbg:
Load the dump file (C:\Windows\Minidump\) and use commands like:
!analyze -v

• lmnt

Final Thoughts

The DRIVER_PORTION_MUST_BE_NONPAGED BSOD error is a clear sign of a problematic driver or memory issue at a critical level. Address it quickly by identifying the culprit driver, scanning for malware, and checking your system’s memory. With proactive maintenance and regular updates, you can prevent future blue screens and keep your system running smoothly.

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