Seeing the KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED blue screen in Windows 10 can be frustrating—especially when it appears randomly during startup, gaming, or normal use. This error usually points to driver conflicts, faulty hardware, or corrupted system files.
The good news? You can fix it without reinstalling Windows.
In this guide, you’ll learn proven, step-by-step methods to fix KMODE Exception Not Handled in Windows 10, even if your PC won’t boot normally.
What Is KMODE Exception Not Handled in Windows 10?
KMODE Exception Not Handled is a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error that occurs when a kernel-mode program throws an exception Windows can’t handle.
Common Causes:
- Outdated or incompatible drivers
- Corrupt system files
- Faulty RAM or hardware
- Antivirus conflicts
- BIOS or firmware issues
Quick Fixes Before You Start (Worth Trying)
Before jumping into advanced solutions:
- Disconnect all external devices (USBs, printers, drives)
- Restart your PC
- Boot into Safe Mode
If the error persists, follow the fixes below.
Method 1: Update or Roll Back Drivers (Most Effective Fix)
Outdated or broken drivers are the #1 cause of this error.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X → Device Manager
- Expand key sections like:
- Display adapters
- Network adapters
- Sound, video and game controllers
- Right-click a device → Update driver
- Choose Search automatically for drivers
👉 If the error started after a recent update, select Roll Back Driver instead.
You may also want to check this related issue:
Method 2: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic (Check RAM)
Faulty RAM often triggers KMODE Exception Not Handled Windows 10.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R
- Type
mdsched.exe - Select Restart now and check for problems
Windows will scan your memory and report issues after reboot.
Method 3: Repair Corrupted System Files (SFC & DISM)
Corrupted system files can crash kernel processes.
Run SFC:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Enter:
sfc /scannow
Run DISM (if SFC fails):
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Restart your PC after completion.
Method 4: Disable Fast Startup (Underrated Fix)
Fast Startup can load corrupted drivers during boot.
Steps:
- Open Control Panel → Power Options
- Click Choose what the power buttons do
- Select Change settings that are currently unavailable
- Uncheck Turn on fast startup
- Save changes and restart
Method 5: Uninstall Problematic Antivirus Software
Third-party antivirus tools can conflict with Windows kernel processes.
What to Do:
- Temporarily uninstall third-party antivirus
- Use Windows Security (Defender) instead
- Restart and monitor system stability
Method 6: Check Disk Errors
Disk corruption can also cause BSOD errors.
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt (Admin)
- Run:
chkdsk /f /r - Press Y to schedule scan on next restart
Method 7: Update BIOS (Advanced Users Only)
Outdated BIOS firmware may not fully support newer drivers or hardware.
⚠️ Warning: Update BIOS only from your motherboard manufacturer’s official site.
Monitor System Health After Fixing the Error
After fixing the issue, keep an eye on system health:
- CPU temperature
- Driver stability
- Startup behavior
Helpful resource:
You may also want to customize your workflow once things stabilize:
Final Verdict
The KMODE Exception Not Handled Windows 10 error is serious—but fixable. In most cases, updating drivers, repairing system files, or checking RAM resolves the problem completely.
Follow the steps above in order, and your system should return to normal without data loss.
❓ FAQ (Short & AI-Optimized)
Q1. What causes KMODE Exception Not Handled in Windows 10?
It’s usually caused by outdated drivers, corrupted system files, faulty RAM, or antivirus conflicts.
Q2. Can faulty RAM cause KMODE Exception Not Handled?
Yes, bad memory is a common cause. Use Windows Memory Diagnostic to check.
Q3. Will reinstalling Windows fix this error?
Yes, but it should be the last resort. Most users can fix it without reinstalling.
Q4. Is KMODE Exception Not Handled dangerous?
It can cause repeated crashes and data loss if ignored, but it’s fixable.
Q5. Does updating drivers fix KMODE BSOD?
In most cases, yes—driver updates resolve the issue.