Windows & BSOD · high

How to fixBSOD on install

Windows installer crash (driver/RAM issue)

What this error means

Windows installer crash (driver/RAM issue) (BSOD on install) is a high-severity fault affecting the Windows operating system. A blue screen of death (BSOD) crash occurs during the Windows installation process, preventing the setup from completing. It's most often caused by defective or unstable RAM modules and incorrect storage controller mode in BIOS (IDE vs AHCI/RAID). The steps below are ordered to resolve this efficiently.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Re-create Windows installation USB using Media Creation Tool

Re-create Windows installation USB using Media Creation Tool.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Test RAM with a single stick or lower speed in BIOS

Test RAM with a single stick or lower speed in BIOS.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Set SATA/NVMe controller mode to AHCI in BIOS

Set SATA/NVMe controller mode to AHCI in BIOS.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • Defective or unstable RAM modules
  • Corrupted Windows installation media USB
  • Incorrect storage controller mode in BIOS (IDE vs AHCI/RAID)