How to Fix a Kmode Exception Not Handled Error in Windows 10

The KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED error is a common bluescreen error that usually occurs because of a faulty driver. In some cases, users can also get stuck in a boot loop. Simply put, the Kmode Exception not handled error is the result of memory-related conflicts between two or more applications.

So, read on to find out to fix the Kmode Exception not handled error once and for all.

1. Disable Fast Startup and Clean Boot Your Computer

By default, fast startup is enabled in almost all Windows 10 machines. The feature allows your computer to boot faster or quickly recuperate from hibernation, but can also result in Windows 10 not properly booting or loading back into previous errors.

The first thing users should do is disable fast startup, followed by a clean boot:

Disable Fast Start-Up

1. Right-click on the Start button and click on Power Options.
2. In the window that opens, click on Additional power settings.
3. In the menu on the left side, click on Choose what power buttons do.
4. Navigate to Shutdown settings and uncheck the Turn on fast startup box.
5. Save changes and exit.

How to Clean Boot Windows 10

Clean boot disables all third-party software in Windows. It’s used to diagnose a lot of common issues that Windows users face.

1. In the Start menu search bar, type msconfig and select System Configuration in the search results.
2. Navigate to the Services tab in the window.
3. Check the Hide all Microsoft services box.
4. Check all the services and click on Disable all.
5. Now, open Task Manager and go to the Startup tab.
6. Select all the services one by one and click on the Disable button on the lower right.

Now it’s time to reboot your computer and check if the error persists. If the error is resolved, it means that the bluescreen of death error was being caused by interference from third-party software.

2. Network Drivers May Be Outdated

A common reason for the Kmode Exception not handled BSOD is outdated network drivers. Here’s how you update your device’s network drivers:

1. Press Windows Key + R and type devmgmt.msc. The Device Manager window will open.
2. Look for Network adapters and expand them using the drop-down arrow.
3. Right-click on your Ethernet and wireless drivers and select Update driver.
4. Subsequently, click on Search automatically for updated driver software.

After this, Windows will automatically download and install the required network drivers. Users can also find more detailed information on how to find and replace outdated Windows drivers.

3. Diagnosing Memory Issues

As mentioned in the introduction, the error is usually the result of memory issues in your computer. Thankfully, Windows has an in-built utility that can help resolve a huge array of memory-related problems. To use it, just follow these steps:

1. In the Start menu search bar, type Windows Memory Diagnostic and select the Best Match.
2. Users can either instantly restart their PC and begin the diagnostics process or do it when the computer reboots next.

It’s recommended that users choose the first option and restart their computer.

Related: How Much RAM Do You Really Need

4. Disable Your Antivirus Software

Antivirus software is notorious for deleting or quarantining essential system files. This can also happen when installing new drivers or updating existing ones. That’s why it’s recommended that users temporarily disable their antivirus when installing new software(downloaded from a trusted site) or drivers.

To disable your antivirus software, find its respective icon near the notification bar on the right side of the taskbar. Right-click on it and click on disable. The process may vary in different antivirus programs, so check the user manual on how to do the same.

Related: The Best Antivirus Software For Windows 10

Sometimes, the in-built Windows Security may also falsely flag safe programs and files. To disable Windows Security, follow these steps:

1. Type Windows Security in the Start menu search bar and click on the first result.
2. In the dashboard, click on Virus and threat protection.
3. Click on Manage settings and switch-off Real-time protection.

Please note that this is a temporary switch off. As soon as the program or driver finishes installing, switch your antivirus program back on.

5. Remove External Hardware

When booting your computer, make sure that all external hardware is disconnected. This includes your keyboard, mouse, storage devices, and video game controllers. Check for any hiccups while booting or re-appearance of the error after booting.

If the computer works smoothly, it means that the drivers related to those external devices were not installed properly.

6. Free Up Storage Space

The Kmode Exception not handled error could also be the result of a full hard drive.

Microsoft recommends users leave an ample amount of space in the C: drive as it contains system files. A full C: drive may cause a plethora of problems, specifically when downloading and installing a Windows update.

Delete any unwanted or unused files, uninstall obsolete software, and install video games in other partitions. It might not be a bad idea to use cloud storage for storing your files if you frequently run out of space. Alternatively, you could upgrade your existing storage for a larger drive.

7. Update the BIOS and Its Settings

Rarely, the kmode exception not handled error can be caused due to outdated BIOS software. To update your BIOS, go to the motherboard manufacturer’s website and navigate to the downloads section. Select the appropriate motherboard, then download and install the latest BIOS.

Alternatively, check out our guide on how to update your UEFI BIOS in Windows.

If your BIOS has options to enable or disable caching and shadowing, make sure that both these options are disabled. Newer systems do not have these settings, but it’s important to rule these out.

Kmode Exception Not Handled Error Resolved

The aforementioned techniques will resolve the kmode_exception_not_handled BSOD. But if bad comes to worse, and the error doesn’t resolve, your final fallback options to reset Windows 10.

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