Blue Screen Breakdown: Fixing Error 0x00000092 “UP_DRIVER_ON_MP_SYSTEM” Once and for All

What Is BSOD Error 0x00000092?

The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error code 0x00000092, also known as UP_DRIVER_ON_MP_SYSTEM, occurs when a uniprocessor-only driver is mistakenly loaded on a multiprocessor (MP) system. In simpler terms, a driver designed to run on systems with only one CPU core is being executed on a system with multiple cores or threads—something modern systems almost always have.

This mismatch triggers a critical system error that halts Windows to prevent potential damage or instability.

Understanding the Error: Breaking Down the Terminology

• Uniprocessor Driver (UP Driver): A device driver built specifically for single-core processors. These were more common in early Windows operating systems.
• Multiprocessor System (MP System): A computer system with multiple CPUs or CPU cores, which includes nearly all modern desktops and laptops.
• Why It Crashes: UP drivers don’t properly handle concurrent processing or interrupt handling in MP environments, leading to instability or race conditions.

Causes of UP_DRIVER_ON_MP_SYSTEM

1. Outdated Drivers
   Legacy drivers that were never updated to support multiprocessor configurations.
2. Manual Driver Installation
   Installing old drivers manually, such as from a vendor’s CD or archive, can introduce UP-only drivers.
3. Windows Migration or Upgrade Issues
   Migrating a system image built for a uniprocessor system to multiprocessor hardware.
4. Faulty Custom Kernels or Embedded Systems
   Especially in enterprise or embedded environments, a custom kernel or a minimized Windows image (e.g., Windows Embedded) may load inappropriate drivers.
5. Incorrect Hardware Emulation Settings
   Virtual machines or emulated hardware with incorrect CPU settings may lead to UP drivers being loaded.

How to Fix Error 0x00000092

Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode

If the BSOD appears at startup:

1. Power on the device and force shutdown as Windows starts loading.
2. Repeat this 2–3 times until Automatic Repair launches.
3. Navigate to:
   
   • Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart
   • Press 4 for Safe Mode

Step 2: Identify the Faulty Driver

Use the built-in tool:

• Open Command Prompt (Admin) and run:

cmd

CopyEdit

driverquery /v /fo list > C:\drivers.txt

‍

Check the output for suspicious drivers, especially those labeled as “Uniprocessor”.

Step 3: Uninstall or Replace the Driver

1. Press Win + X → Device Manager
2. Expand categories and locate the device using the outdated driver
3. Right-click → Uninstall Device
4. Restart your PC

Let Windows search for a multiprocessor-compatible driver automatically, or download one from the official hardware vendor site.

Step 4: Perform System File and Integrity Checks

Run these in Command Prompt (Admin):

cmd

sfc /scannow

‍

Then:

cmd

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

‍

These will ensure your system files and driver structures aren’t corrupted.

Step 5: Windows Update or Rollback

• Update: Go to Settings → Windows Update and install the latest patches and driver updates.
• Rollback: If the issue started after a recent update or driver installation, roll back:
  
  • Device Manager → Device Properties → Driver tab → Roll Back Driver

Step 6: Check CPU and Virtualization Settings

If you're using a Virtual Machine, make sure:

• Multiprocessor support is enabled
• The correct chipset/CPU emulation is selected

If you’re running on physical hardware, ensure BIOS/UEFI doesn’t restrict core usage.

Advanced: Clean Driver Slate with DDU

If driver issues persist, use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) or a general driver cleanup tool to completely remove conflicting drivers and reinstall clean ones.

How to Prevent BSOD 0x00000092 in the Future

• Always download drivers from official sources
• Avoid using old driver discs or software installers
• Regularly update Windows and driver packages
• Use Driver Verifier (advanced) to test for faulty drivers before they cause BSODs
• Avoid cloning old Windows installations to new hardware without proper driver migration tools

Final Thoughts

BSOD 0x00000092 “UP_DRIVER_ON_MP_SYSTEM” is a classic case of old software meeting modern hardware. Fortunately, it’s fully resolvable by identifying and removing the incompatible driver. Stay vigilant with your driver sources, and regularly audit your system to keep legacy issues from creeping in.

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