How to fix “DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION”. Step-by-Step Guide

10 Essential Steps to Troubleshoot and Resolve Common Windows Issues

Encountering problems on your Windows computer can be frustrating. This guide provides ten straightforward steps to help you identify and fix common issues, ensuring your system runs smoothly.

Key Takeaways

Step	Action	Purpose
1	Restart Your Computer	Resolves temporary glitches and refreshes system processes.
2	Check for Windows Updates	Ensures your system has the latest features and security patches.
3	Update Device Drivers	Maintains hardware compatibility and performance.
4	Run Disk Cleanup	Frees up space by removing unnecessary files.
5	Uninstall Unnecessary Programs	Eliminates software that may cause conflicts or slowdowns.
6	Check Startup Programs	Reduces boot time by managing startup applications.
7	Check for Corrupt System Files	Identifies and repairs damaged system files.
8	Check for Malware & Antivirus Conflicts	Detects malicious software and resolves security software conflicts.
9	Perform a System Restore	Reverts the system to a previous state to undo recent changes causing issues.
10	Reset or Reinstall Windows	Provides a fresh start by restoring system settings or performing a clean installation.

Basic Troubleshooting (Initial Steps)

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Encountering the DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION error can be frustrating. As an expert in system troubleshooting, I recommend starting with a simple yet effective step: restarting your computer. This action can often clear temporary issues and reset system processes.

To restart your computer:

1. Click on the Start menu.
2. Select the Power icon.
3. Choose Restart.

If your system is unresponsive:

• Press and hold the power button until the computer turns off.
• Wait a few seconds, then press the power button again to turn it back on.

In my experience, a simple restart can resolve many system errors. However, if the issue persists after restarting, further troubleshooting steps will be necessary.

Step 2: Check Recent Changes

The DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION error often arises after recent system modifications. Identifying these changes is crucial for effective troubleshooting.

Review Installed Drivers and Software

Begin by examining any newly installed or updated drivers and software:

1. Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter to open the Programs and Features window.
2. Click on the “Installed On” column to sort by installation date.
3. Identify any recent installations or updates that might correlate with the onset of the error.

Inspect Windows Updates

Windows updates can sometimes introduce compatibility issues:

1. Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click on View update history to see recently installed updates.
3. If an update aligns with the error’s appearance, consider uninstalling it by selecting Uninstall updates.

Personal Experience

In my professional experience, I’ve encountered cases where third-party antivirus programs conflicted with system drivers, leading to this specific error. Temporarily disabling or uninstalling such software can sometimes resolve the issue.

Affiliate Recommendations

To safeguard your system during troubleshooting, consider using reliable backup solutions. For instance, MiniTool Power Data Recovery offers comprehensive data recovery options, ensuring your important files remain intact.

Additionally, managing your system’s partitions can help in organizing data and preventing potential conflicts. MiniTool Partition Wizard is a tool that assists in partition management, enhancing system stability.

Expert Advice

Always create a system restore point before making significant changes. This precaution allows you to revert to a stable state if new installations or updates cause issues.

Step 3: Boot into Safe Mode

When troubleshooting the DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION error, booting into Safe Mode is a crucial step. Safe Mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services, which can help isolate and identify problematic components.

Methods to Enter Safe Mode

Depending on your system’s state, you can enter Safe Mode using different methods:

1. From Windows Settings:
   1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
   2. Navigate to Update & Security > Recovery.
   3. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
   4. After the system restarts, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
   5. Upon restart, press 4 or F4 to boot into Safe Mode. For network support, press 5 or F5.
2. From the Sign-In Screen:
   1. At the sign-in screen, hold down the Shift key and click Power > Restart.
   2. After the system restarts, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
   3. Upon restart, press 4 or F4 to boot into Safe Mode. For network support, press 5 or F5.
3. When Windows Fails to Start:
   1. After three consecutive failed boot attempts, Windows should automatically enter the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
   2. In WinRE, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
   3. Upon restart, press 4 or F4 to boot into Safe Mode. For network support, press 5 or F5.

For a visual guide, you can refer to Dell’s official instructions on booting into Safe Mode: How to Boot into Safe Mode in Windows 10.

Expert Advice

In my experience, Safe Mode is invaluable for diagnosing driver-related issues. If the DRIVER_VERIFIER_DETECTED_VIOLATION error doesn’t occur in Safe Mode, it’s a strong indication that a third-party driver or service is the culprit. From here, you can methodically enable services and drivers to pinpoint the exact cause.

Affiliate Recommendations

To ensure your system remains protected during troubleshooting, consider using reputable security tools. For instance, Malwarebytes offers comprehensive protection against malware that could interfere with system stability.

Additional Resources

For a step-by-step video guide on accessing Safe Mode, you might find this tutorial helpful:

Intermediate Fixes (Driver & System Checks)

Step 4: Disable Driver Verifier

Driver Verifier is a diagnostic tool in Windows designed to detect driver issues. However, leaving it enabled can lead to system instability. It’s crucial to disable it after troubleshooting.

Methods to Disable Driver Verifier:

1. Using Driver Verifier Manager:
   1. Press Win + R, type verifier, and press Enter.
   2. Select Delete existing settings and click Finish.
   3. Restart your computer.
2. Via Command Prompt:
   1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
   2. Enter the command: verifier /reset
   3. Restart your computer.
3. Through Windows Recovery Environment:
   1. If your system fails to boot due to Driver Verifier, access the Windows Recovery Environment.
   2. Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
   3. In the Command Prompt window, type: verifier /bootmode resetonbootfail
   4. Restart your computer.

Expert Advice:

Registry Modification: In cases where standard methods don’t work, you can manually disable Driver Verifier by editing the registry. Boot into Safe Mode, open the Registry Editor, and navigate to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\Memory Management

Delete the entries named VerifyDrivers and VerifyDriverLevel. (Source)

Caution: Always back up your registry before making changes to prevent potential system issues.

Personal Experience:

I’ve encountered situations where Driver Verifier caused a continuous boot loop. In such cases, accessing the Windows Recovery Environment and using the command-line method proved effective in restoring system stability.

Related Tool:

EaseUS DriverHandy: To keep your drivers updated and prevent future issues, consider using EaseUS DriverHandy, which easily scans, updates, and fixes your PC’s drivers.

Step 5: Update or Roll Back Drivers

Managing device drivers is crucial for system stability and performance. Drivers facilitate communication between the operating system and hardware components. However, incorrect or outdated drivers can lead to system errors or hardware malfunctions.

Updating Drivers

To ensure hardware operates correctly, it’s essential to keep drivers up-to-date. Here’s how to update them:

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the category of the device you want to update (e.g., Display adapters).
3. Right-click the specific device and choose Update driver.
4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will search and install the latest driver if available.

Expert Tip: While Windows can automatically find drivers, it’s often beneficial to download the latest drivers directly from the hardware manufacturer’s website for optimal performance and compatibility.

Rolling Back Drivers

If a recent driver update causes issues, reverting to the previous version can resolve them. To roll back a driver:

1. Open Device Manager as described above.
2. Locate and right-click the problematic device, then select Properties.
3. Navigate to the Driver tab and click Roll Back Driver. If this option is grayed out, a previous version isn’t available, and you’ll need to manually install an older driver.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your computer if prompted.

Expert Advice: Before rolling back or updating drivers, it’s wise to create a system restore point. This precaution allows you to revert your system to its previous state if something goes wrong during the process.

Driver Management Tools

For users seeking automated solutions, driver management tools can simplify the process of updating and rolling back drivers. One such tool is:

• EaseUS DriverHandy: This utility scans, updates, and fixes your PC’s drivers efficiently.

Personal Experience: In my years of troubleshooting, I’ve encountered numerous instances where outdated or faulty drivers were the root cause of system instability. Regularly updating drivers and utilizing reliable driver management tools have proven invaluable in maintaining system health.

Conclusion

Proper driver management is essential for a stable and efficient computing experience. Regularly updating drivers and knowing how to roll back problematic ones can prevent and resolve many common system issues.

Step 6: Run Windows Troubleshooters

Windows includes built-in troubleshooters designed to diagnose and resolve common system issues. Utilizing these tools can help maintain your system’s health and performance.

Accessing Troubleshooters in Windows 11

1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
2. Navigate to System and choose Troubleshoot.
3. Select Other troubleshooters.
4. Choose the relevant troubleshooter for your issue and click Run.

For example, to address Windows Update problems:

1. Under Most frequent, find Windows Update.
2. Click Run and follow the on-screen instructions.

For more details, refer to Microsoft’s guide on using the Windows Update Troubleshooter: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-update-troubleshooter-19bc41ca-ad72-ae67-af3c-89ce169755dd

Accessing Troubleshooters in Windows 10

1. Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to Update & Security.
3. Select Troubleshoot from the left sidebar.
4. Click on Additional troubleshooters to view all available options.
5. Choose the appropriate troubleshooter and click Run the troubleshooter.

For a comprehensive list of troubleshooters and their functions, visit: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/troubleshoot/windows-client/windows-troubleshooters/active-and-retired-troubleshooters-windows-10

Expert Advice

As an IT professional, I’ve found that running the appropriate troubleshooter often resolves issues without the need for manual intervention. For instance, the Network Adapter troubleshooter has been particularly effective in diagnosing connectivity problems. However, it’s essential to ensure your system is up-to-date, as outdated software can hinder the effectiveness of these tools.

Additional Resources

For more advanced troubleshooting, consider using tools like the System File Checker (SFC) and the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) to repair corrupted system files. These command-line utilities can be invaluable for maintaining system integrity.

For a visual guide on using Windows Troubleshooters, you might find this video helpful:

Advanced Fixes (System-Wide Solutions)

Step 7: Check for Corrupt System Files

Corrupted system files can lead to various issues, including system instability and application failures. To ensure your Windows operating system runs smoothly, it’s essential to verify the integrity of these files and repair any corruption. As an expert in system maintenance, I recommend the following tools and procedures:

1. System File Checker (SFC)

The System File Checker is a built-in Windows utility that scans for and restores corrupted system files. Here’s how to use it:

1. Press the Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows Terminal (Admin).
2. In the command prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete. This process may take some time. Do not close the command prompt window until the verification is 100% complete.

After the scan, you may receive one of the following messages:

• Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations. This means no corrupted files were found.
• Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them. The tool repaired the corrupted files.
• Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them. In this case, you may need to repair the corrupted files manually. For detailed information about the system file scan and restoration, refer to the official Microsoft support page. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

2. Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)

If SFC cannot repair some files, the DISM tool can be used to fix Windows corruption errors. Here’s how:

1. Open the command prompt with administrative privileges as described above.
2. Type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter.
3. Wait for the process to complete. This may take several minutes.

After running DISM, it’s advisable to run the SFC scan again to ensure all issues are resolved. For more detailed instructions, you can refer to this guide. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Expert Advice

In my experience, regularly running these tools can prevent many common system issues. However, always ensure you have a recent backup of your important data before performing system repairs. For automated driver updates and system maintenance, consider using reputable software solutions. For instance, EaseUS DriverHandy is a reliable tool to easily scan, update, and fix your PC’s drivers.

Remember, maintaining system integrity is crucial for optimal performance. Regular system checks and updates can save you from potential headaches down the line.

Additional Resources

For a visual guide on using the DISM tool, you might find this video helpful:

Step 8: Check for Malware & Antivirus Conflicts

Ensuring your system is free from malware and that your antivirus software is functioning correctly is crucial for system stability. Conflicts or infections can lead to errors such as the “Driver Verifier Detected Violation” blue screen.

1. Scan for Malware

Use reputable antivirus software to perform a full system scan. Windows Defender, built into Windows 10 and later, is a reliable option:

1. Click on the Start menu and select Settings.
2. Navigate to Update & Security and then to Windows Security.
3. Click on Virus & threat protection.
4. Select Quick scan or Full scan for a more thorough check.

For additional protection, consider using Malwarebytes to perform a secondary scan, as it can detect threats that some antivirus programs might miss.

2. Check for Antivirus Conflicts

Running multiple antivirus programs simultaneously can cause conflicts, leading to system instability. Ensure that only one antivirus program is active. If you’ve installed third-party antivirus software, verify that Windows Defender is disabled to prevent conflicts:

1. Open the Start menu and type Windows Security, then press Enter.
2. Click on Virus & threat protection.
3. Under Virus & threat protection settings, check if Real-time protection is turned off when using third-party antivirus software.

3. Update Antivirus Software

Ensure your antivirus software is up-to-date. Outdated definitions can lead to missed detections or false positives:

1. Open your antivirus application.
2. Navigate to the update section.
3. Check for updates and install any available.

4. Review Recent Changes

If you’ve recently installed new software or updates, they might be causing conflicts:

• Consider uninstalling any recently added programs to see if the issue persists.
• Check if your antivirus software has received recent updates that might be causing conflicts. In some cases, antivirus updates have led to system instability, as seen in incidents like the CrowdStrike update issue. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Expert Advice

As someone who has dealt with numerous system stability issues, I recommend regularly monitoring your system’s performance after installing new software or updates. Keeping a close eye can help you identify and resolve conflicts before they lead to critical errors.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your system remains free from malware and that your antivirus software operates without causing conflicts, maintaining overall system stability.

Step 9: Perform a System Restore

When troubleshooting persistent system issues, performing a System Restore can revert your computer’s state to a previous point in time, potentially resolving the problem. This process restores system files and settings without affecting your personal data.

How to Perform a System Restore

1. Press the Windows key and type Recovery.
2. Select Recovery from the search results.
3. Click on Open System Restore.
4. In the System Restore window, click Next.
5. Choose a restore point from the list. Select a point when your system was functioning correctly.
6. Click Next, then Finish to confirm.

Note: Ensure you have saved any open documents before initiating the restore process, as your system will restart to apply the changes.

Expert Advice

As an IT professional, I’ve found System Restore invaluable for resolving issues caused by recent software installations or driver updates. However, it’s essential to regularly create restore points, especially before making significant system changes. This proactive approach provides a safety net, allowing you to revert to a stable system state if problems arise.

Visual Representation of the System Restore Process

• Step 1: Access Recovery Options

  Press the Windows key, type ‘Recovery’, and select it from the search results.

• Step 2: Open System Restore

  Click on ‘Open System Restore’ to launch the wizard.

• Step 3: Select Restore Point

  Choose a restore point from the list provided.

• Step 4: Confirm and Restore

  Click ‘Next’, then ‘Finish’ to initiate the system restore process.

Additional Resources

For a visual guide on performing a System Restore, you might find this video helpful:

Related Tools

To safeguard your data before performing system operations, consider using backup solutions like MiniTool ShadowMaker for comprehensive backups.

Step 10: Reset or Reinstall Windows

When other troubleshooting methods fail to resolve persistent system issues, resetting or reinstalling Windows can restore your computer to a stable state. This process reinstalls the operating system, potentially resolving software-related problems.

Resetting Windows

Resetting Windows allows you to choose whether to keep your personal files or remove everything, followed by a reinstallation of the operating system.

1. Access Recovery Options: Navigate to Settings > System > Recovery. In Windows 10, this is found under Update & Security > Recovery.
2. Initiate Reset: Click on Reset PC.
3. Choose an Option: Select either Keep my files to retain personal data or Remove everything for a complete reset.
4. Reinstallation Method: Opt for Cloud download to fetch the latest version from Microsoft servers or Local reinstall to use existing installation files on your device.
5. Finalize: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.

For detailed guidance, refer to Microsoft’s official documentation: Reset your PC.

Reinstalling Windows Using Installation Media

If resetting doesn’t resolve the issues, a complete reinstallation using installation media might be necessary. This method requires creating a bootable USB drive with the Windows installation files.

1. Create Installation Media: Use the Windows Media Creation Tool to download the latest Windows version and create a bootable USB drive.
2. Backup Important Data: Ensure all essential files are backed up to an external drive or cloud storage.
3. Boot from USB: Insert the bootable USB into your computer, restart, and boot from the USB drive. This may require changing the boot order in the BIOS settings.
4. Install Windows: Follow the on-screen prompts to perform a clean installation. This process will erase all data on the primary drive.

For comprehensive instructions, see Microsoft’s guide: Reinstall Windows with the installation media.

Expert Advice

Before proceeding with a reset or reinstallation:

• Backup Data: Always back up important files to prevent data loss.
• Ensure Power Supply: Keep your device connected to a reliable power source throughout the process to avoid interruptions.
• Driver Availability: Have necessary drivers, especially for network and storage devices, readily available post-installation.

In my experience, performing a clean installation can effectively resolve deep-rooted system issues. However, it’s a time-consuming process that requires careful preparation. Always ensure you have all necessary software installation files and licenses before proceeding.

Additional Resources

For a visual walkthrough, you might find this video helpful:

Remember, while resetting or reinstalling Windows can resolve many issues, it’s essential to diagnose the root cause to prevent recurrence. Regular system maintenance, updates, and backups are crucial for long-term system health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my computer won’t boot into Windows?

If your computer fails to boot into Windows, consider the following steps:

• Ensure all hardware components are properly connected.
• Access the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) by turning your PC on and off three times to trigger automatic repair mode. From there, you can attempt startup repair or boot into Safe Mode.
• If issues persist, you might need to reinstall Windows using a bootable USB drive. Remember to back up important data beforehand.

For a detailed guide, refer to this article.

2. How can I fix the ‘Blue Screen of Death’ (BSoD) error?

The BSoD can result from various issues, including hardware failures, driver conflicts, or system file corruption. To address this:

1. Note the error code displayed during the BSoD; it can provide clues about the cause.
2. Update all device drivers to their latest versions.
3. Run the System File Checker by opening Command Prompt as an administrator and typing sfc /scannow.
4. Check for hardware issues, such as faulty RAM or overheating components.

For more information, see the Blue Screen of Death Wikipedia page.

3. What steps can I take if Windows updates fail to install?

When Windows updates encounter issues:

• Ensure your device has sufficient disk space.
• Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter found in the Settings app under ‘Update & Security’.
• Manually reset the Windows Update components by stopping the Windows Update service, deleting the SoftwareDistribution folder, and restarting the service.

Detailed troubleshooting steps are available on Microsoft’s support page: Troubleshoot problems updating Windows.

4. How do I resolve frequent application crashes?

If applications are crashing frequently:

1. Update the application to the latest version.
2. Ensure your system meets the application’s hardware and software requirements.
3. Check for conflicting software or background processes that might interfere with the application.
4. Review system logs in the Event Viewer for error messages related to the application.

For a comprehensive guide on troubleshooting, visit Troubleshooting Basic Problems.

5. What can I do if my computer is running slowly?

To improve system performance:

• Close unnecessary applications and background processes.
• Disable startup programs that you don’t need.
• Run a virus scan to ensure malware isn’t affecting performance.
• Consider upgrading hardware components, such as adding more RAM or switching to a solid-state drive (SSD).

For more tips, see Easy Steps to Clear RAM and Boost Your Computer’s Speed.

6. How can I back up my data before performing a system restore or reset?

Backing up your data is crucial before major system changes:

1. Use an external hard drive or cloud storage service to copy important files and folders.
2. Consider using backup software to create a complete image of your system.
3. Regularly schedule backups to ensure data is consistently protected.

For backup solutions, you might explore tools like MiniTool ShadowMaker.

7. What is Safe Mode, and when should I use it?

Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup mode in Windows that loads only essential system drivers and services. It’s useful for troubleshooting issues such as:

• Identifying and disabling malfunctioning drivers or startup programs.
• Removing malware that prevents normal system operation.
• Reversing system changes that cause instability.

To access Safe Mode, restart your computer and press F8 (or Shift + F8) before Windows loads, then select ‘Safe Mode’ from the options.

8. How do I check for hardware issues causing system problems?

To diagnose potential hardware problems:

1. Run built-in diagnostics tools provided by your computer manufacturer.
2. Use Windows Memory Diagnostic to check for RAM issues.
3. Inspect hardware components for signs of damage or wear.
4. Ensure all internal components are properly seated and connected.

For a step-by-step guide, refer to Fixing Windows 11: The Ultimate Guide to Resolving the Most Common Issues.

9. Can I undo a system restore if it doesn’t fix my problem?

Yes, Windows allows you to undo a system restore:

• Open the System Restore tool.
• Select the option to ‘Undo System Restore’.
• Follow the prompts to revert to the previous system state.

Keep in mind that undoing a system restore will remove any changes made since the restore point was created.

10. How often should I update my device drivers?

Regularly updating device drivers ensures optimal hardware performance and system stability. It’s advisable to:

• Check for driver updates at least once a month.
• Enable automatic updates if available.
• Visit the hardware manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.

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