Network · high

How to fixWIFI-DRIVER-BSOD

Wi-Fi adapter driver BSOD

What this error means

Wi-Fi adapter driver BSOD is a high-severity network adapter issue. The wireless network adapter driver (commonly Intel AX series or Realtek RTL) causes a Blue Screen of Death. This typically manifests as SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED or DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL pointing to a Wi-Fi driver file. Often occurs after Windows Update automatically installs an incompatible wireless driver version. Use the steps below to track down and fix the cause.

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
01Boot into Safe Mode and uninstall Wi-Fi driver

Boot into Safe Mode and uninstall Wi-Fi driver.

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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02Download driver from laptop/motherboard manufacturer's site

Download driver from laptop/motherboard manufacturer's site.

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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03Roll back Wi-Fi driver to previous version

Roll back Wi-Fi driver to previous version.

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

  • Windows Update installed incompatible Wi-Fi driver
  • Driver corruption
  • Firmware mismatch between adapter and driver