STOP Error 0x00000050: PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA

The STOP error 0x00000050, also known as PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA, is a common issue that Windows users may encounter. It is caused by an attempt to access data that has not been loaded into RAM or is already corrupted, resulting in a system crash.

What Does Error 0x00000050 Mean?

The error code 0x00000050 points to a problem accessing data in the non-paged memory area. This can happen for several reasons, including corrupted system files, driver issues, faulty RAM, or even problems with the hard drive.

Common Causes of PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA

  • Corrupted drivers — outdated or corrupted device drivers can cause system crashes.
  • Faulty RAM — memory errors can lead to attempts to access non-existent or corrupted data.
  • Hard drive problems — damaged or malfunctioning sectors on the hard drive can trigger this error.
  • Viruses and malware — some types of malicious software can damage system files, causing crashes.
  • Failed updates — failed or incorrectly installed Windows updates may lead to various errors.

How to Fix Error 0x00000050

To resolve the PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA error, you can try the following steps:

1. Check Your RAM

Use the built-in Windows Memory Diagnostic tool to check your RAM. Open the Start menu, type mdsched, and follow the instructions to run the diagnostic.

2. Update Your Drivers

Ensure that all your device drivers are up to date, especially for graphics cards, sound cards, and other peripherals. You can update drivers manually through the Device Manager or using third-party utilities.

3. Check the Hard Drive for Errors

Use the CHKDSK utility to check and fix damaged sectors on your hard drive. Open the command prompt as an administrator and enter the following command:

chkdsk /f /r

4. Perform a System Restore

If the error occurred after a recent update or configuration change, perform a system restore to a previous point when everything was working fine. This can be done through Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.

5. Scan for Malware

If you suspect the error is caused by malware, perform a full scan using antivirus software like Malwarebytes or Windows Defender.