Fixing the ndis.sys Blue Screen Error in Windows 10

The dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with an ndis.sys error in Windows 10 points to an issue related to network drivers. This error typically appears due to conflicts or malfunctions in network drivers, which can interrupt your system's operations and cause unexpected shutdowns. Let’s explore the possible causes and effective ways to resolve this error.

Main Causes of the ndis.sys Error

The ndis.sys error can stem from a variety of issues, including:

  • Outdated or incompatible network drivers: Sometimes, the network adapter drivers are either outdated or incompatible with the current Windows 10 version, leading to errors.
  • Software conflicts: Certain software, especially antivirus programs and VPN clients, may interfere with network drivers.
  • Hardware issues: Physical problems with the network card or motherboard can also trigger the ndis.sys error.
  • Malware: Viruses or malware can corrupt system files, including ndis.sys.

Solutions to Fix the ndis.sys Error in Windows 10

1. Update or Reinstall Network Drivers

The first step is to check if there are updates for your network adapter driver. Here’s how:

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Go to Network adapters, right-click on your adapter, and select Update driver.
  3. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. If updates are found, install them.

If updating doesn’t help, try uninstalling the driver completely, then restart your computer to allow Windows to automatically reinstall the driver.

2. Use Built-in Diagnostic Tools

Windows 10 has several tools to help diagnose and fix system errors:

  1. Run the System File Checker (sfc): Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type sfc /scannow. This scans and repairs corrupted system files.
  2. Use Disk Check: In Command Prompt, type chkdsk /f and restart your computer to check for and fix any disk issues.

3. Scan for Viruses and Malware

Run a full system scan using your antivirus software or the built-in Windows Defender. Malware can damage system files like ndis.sys, so it’s essential to rule out any malicious interference.

4. Disable Third-Party Programs and Services

Temporarily disabling antivirus or VPN software can help identify if they’re causing conflicts with network drivers:

  1. Press Win + R and type msconfig to open System Configuration.
  2. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and then disable all remaining services. Restart your computer.

If the error stops, re-enable services one by one to identify the conflicting software.

5. Update Windows 10

Sometimes, the issue is due to system bugs that can be fixed with Windows updates. Check for updates by following these steps:

  1. Go to Settings (Win + I), navigate to Update & Security, and click on Check for updates.

6. Use System Restore

If none of the above solutions work, consider using System Restore to revert your system to a previous stable state:

  1. Open Control Panel, go to System and Security, and select Recovery.
  2. Select Open System Restore and follow the prompts to restore your system.