Fixing the VIDEO_MEMORY_MANAGEMENT_INTERNAL BSOD (0x0000010E) in Windows: Causes, Solutions, and Prevention Tips

One of the most common causes of this BSOD is an issue with the graphics drivers.

Encountering a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with the error code 0x0000010E (also referred to as VIDEO_MEMORY_MANAGEMENT_INTERNAL) can be both frustrating and alarming for users. This specific BSOD typically indicates a problem related to the video memory manager within Windows, which is responsible for handling the memory usage of graphics hardware. When Windows encounters an issue it cannot recover from in this area, it triggers this blue screen error.

What is the 0x0000010E BSOD Error?

The 0x0000010E error code, often displayed alongside the phrase VIDEO_MEMORY_MANAGEMENT_INTERNAL, signifies that there’s a severe problem with the video memory management system in your computer. This system is responsible for allocating and managing the video (or GPU) memory used by your graphics card. When the memory manager encounters a problem that it can’t resolve, it forces Windows to display the BSOD.

Typically, this error is seen when there is an issue with either the graphics card, the video memory, or the drivers that manage how the computer interacts with the GPU. Let’s dive deeper into the most common causes of this error.

Common Causes of the 0x0000010E Error

1. Corrupted or Outdated Graphics Drivers  

One of the most common causes of this BSOD is an issue with the graphics drivers. If the drivers are outdated or corrupt, they may fail to communicate properly with the hardware, leading to video memory management errors.

2. Hardware Malfunctions (GPU or RAM Issues)  

A malfunctioning or failing graphics card or RAM (random-access memory) can also trigger this error. If there’s a problem with how video memory is being handled, the system may be unable to recover, resulting in a BSOD.

3. System Overheating  

When your computer overheats, it can cause the graphics card to malfunction, leading to memory errors. If the system can't manage the video memory properly due to overheating, it can result in a BSOD error.

4. Incompatible or Faulty Hardware  

Using incompatible hardware with your system, such as a new GPU that isn’t fully supported by your operating system, can also cause video memory management errors.

5. Conflicting Software or Programs  

Sometimes, certain software, particularly system optimization tools or video-intensive programs (e.g., video editors, games, etc.), can cause conflicts that affect how the video memory is managed.

6. Windows System Corruption  

Corrupted system files in Windows can disrupt how the operating system interacts with the GPU and its video memory, potentially triggering the 0x0000010E BSOD.

How to Fix the 0x0000010E BSOD Error

1. Update Graphics Drivers

Updating your graphics drivers is often the first and easiest step to resolve this error. Here's how you can update them:

  • Via Device Manager:  

1. Press `Win + X` and select Device Manager.

2. Expand Display Adapters.

3. Right-click on your graphics card and select Update Driver.

4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software and follow the prompts.

  • Manually Downloading Drivers:  

Visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) and download the latest drivers for your specific graphics card model.

2. Reinstall Graphics Drivers

If updating the drivers doesn’t work, you may need to completely uninstall and then reinstall them.

Uninstalling:  

1. Go to Device Manager and right-click your GPU under Display Adapters.

2. Select Uninstall device, and check the box that says Delete the driver software for this device.

3. Restart your computer, and Windows will attempt to reinstall a generic graphics driver upon reboot.

3. Check for Overheating

Ensure your PC is not overheating, as this can cause video memory errors. Here are some tips to avoid overheating:

  • Clean your PC’s interior: Dust buildup can cause fans to underperform, resulting in higher temperatures.
  • Check your cooling system: Ensure the CPU and GPU fans are working properly and that your thermal paste is in good condition.
  • Use cooling pads: If you're using a laptop, consider using a cooling pad.

4. Run a Memory Diagnostic

You can check for issues with your RAM using Windows’ built-in memory diagnostic tool:

  • Press `Win + R`, type `mdsched.exe`, and press Enter.
  • Choose Restart now and check for problems.

This will restart your computer and check your RAM for any errors.

5. Perform System File Repair

Corrupted system files can also lead to video memory management issues. You can repair system files using the System File Checker (SFC) tool:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Type `sfc /scannow` and press Enter.
  • Wait for the scan to complete, and then restart your computer.

6. Revert Windows Updates

In some cases, a recent Windows update could be causing the issue. If you suspect this is the case, try rolling back the update:

  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Select View update history, then click Uninstall updates.
  • Uninstall the most recent update and restart your computer.

7. Test Your Graphics Card

If none of the above fixes work, there may be a problem with your GPU itself. You can test it by installing it in another system or using GPU stress testing software (e.g., FurMark) to see if it fails under load.

Preventing the 0x0000010E BSOD in the Future

While there’s no way to guarantee you’ll never see a BSOD, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk:

1. Keep Drivers Updated: Regularly check for driver updates to ensure that your system and hardware are compatible with each other.

2. Monitor Temperatures: Regularly monitor your system’s temperature, especially if you play games or run intensive applications.

3. Avoid Overclocking: If you’ve overclocked your GPU, it could lead to instability. Consider returning it to its default settings.

4. Perform Regular Maintenance: Clean your PC, run antivirus scans, and check for malware regularly.

5. Check for Hardware Issues: Test your system’s components periodically to ensure they’re functioning correctly.

Conclusion

The 0x0000010E VIDEO_MEMORY_MANAGEMENT_INTERNAL BSOD error can be caused by a variety of issues related to video memory management. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve the problem effectively. Remember to update your drivers, check for overheating, and maintain your system regularly to prevent future occurrences of this frustrating error.

Support.Com Can Help!

If you’re still having trouble, consider reaching out to Support.Com for a personalized solution to all technical support issues.