The error 0x000000D4 typically appears when a driver unloads improperly while system-level (kernel-mode) operations are still pending.
The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with error code 0x000000D4, also known as SYSTEM_SCAN_AT_RAISED_IRQL_CAUGHT_IMPROPER_DRIVER_UNLOAD, is a critical error indicating that a driver failed to cancel pending operations before it was unloaded from the system. This kind of crash often disrupts your workflow, causes system instability, and may lead to data loss if ignored.
This guide breaks down what this error really means, why it happens, and how you can fix and prevent it.
What Is BSOD 0x000000D4?
The error 0x000000D4 typically appears when a driver unloads improperly while system-level (kernel-mode) operations are still pending. This results in memory corruption or invalid memory access, especially when the system is executing tasks at an elevated Interrupt Request Level (IRQL), which is highly sensitive to improper memory handling.
Use Driver Verifier cautiously — great for testing driver stability before installing new hardware/software.
Run regular malware scans using reputable tools like Windows Defender or Malwarebytes.
Create regular restore points — especially before installing drivers or system-level utilities.
Avoid forcefully removing devices like USB adapters, especially when in use.
Final Thoughts
The BSOD 0x000000D4 is more than a random crash — it’s a sign that your system's core-level driver integrity has been compromised. Fortunately, with the right steps, you can diagnose the problematic driver, clean up your system, and safeguard it against future issues.
If the problem persists even after all these steps, consider reaching out to Microsoft support or the hardware vendor with the specific minidump file for deeper analysis.
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