Fixing KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR: Ultimate Guide to Resolve BSOD in Windows 11

Let’s paint a scene, shall we? You’re in the middle of working on an important project, or finally leveling up in your favorite video game. Suddenly—bam!—your screen morphs into the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with the cryptic error message: KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR. Your pulse quickens as your PC takes a nosedive. But fear not, fellow Windows warrior, because today, we’re unraveling this nuisance and arming you with the tools to vanquish it once and for all.
In this guide, we’ll go deep, breaking this issue into bite-sized chunks and then solving it step by step. Whether you’re a casual Windows 11 user, a seasoned pro, or simply someone troubleshooting for a friend, there’s something here for you.

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What Is the KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR?​

The KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR occurs when Windows encounters an issue trying to read the page file or virtual memory—two key components that help your system juggle processes when your physical RAM is busy. Typically, this error signals one of these underlying causes:

• Corrupted system files: These digital culprits can ruin your PC’s day.
• Faulty hardware: RAM or disk drive issues tend to be leading suspects here.
• Driver problems: Missing or outdated drivers for key hardware could be poking holes in your system’s stability.
• Disk errors: Your solid-state or hard drive may not be playing nice.
• Paging file issues: A mismanaged or corrupted paging file could also cause the system to choke.

Understanding the causes is like gathering clues—it lays the foundation for systematically tackling the problem.

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Quick Fixes to Try First​

Before you dive into advanced acrobatics, let’s cover some easy, quick-win steps:

• Scan for Malware:
• Go to Windows Security → Virus & Threat Protection → Scan Options → Perform a Full Scan. Malware could be corrupting your files, triggering the BSOD.
• Reboot Your PC:
• A reboot can clear temporary glitches in RAM or the Kernel.
• Remove Recently Added Hardware:
• New RAM sticks, hard drives, or peripherals might be incompatible. Disconnect them and see if the error persists.

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Deep Dive Solutions​

If the quick fixes don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to get your hands dirty.

1. Perform a Clean Boot​

A clean boot starts Windows 11 with only the essential services and drivers, eliminating software conflicts. Think of it as putting your Windows on a detox diet.

• Press Windows + R to invoke the Run Dialog.
• Type msconfig and hit Enter.
• Switch to the Services tab, check the box to Hide All Microsoft Services, and then click Disable All.
• Go to the Startup tab → Select Open Task Manager.
• Right-click every startup item in Task Manager, and disable each one.
• Restart the PC and check if the BSOD appears again.

If the issue is gone after the clean boot, you’ve uncovered a rogue service or startup program! Start enabling them one by one to ferret out the culprit.

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2. Update Disk Drivers​

A glitchy driver can wreak havoc on communications between your OS and storage devices. Keeping your disk drivers up to date is a must.

• Steps To Update Drivers:
• Windows + X → Device Manager.
• Expand Disk Drives.
• Right-click your hard drive or SSD → Select Update Driver.
• Opt for Search Automatically for Drivers.
  Still no luck? Head over to your disk manufacturer’s website and download the newest version manually.

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3. Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool​

RAM errors are a silent killer when it comes to BSOD crashes. This tool helps you verify if your memory (RAM) is healthy.

• Press Windows + R and type mdsched.exe.
• Select Restart now and check for problems.
• During the boot sequence, the diagnostic will sweep through your RAM for flaws.
• After reboot, Windows will display the results. Any errors? Bad RAM might need replacing.

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4. Execute Deep System Scans (SFC and DISM)​

SFC (System File Checker) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) checks are your go-to arsenal for nuking corrupted system files.
Steps:

• Open a Command Prompt (Admin mode):
• Windows + X → Terminal (Admin).
• Run these commands one after another:
• sfc /scannow: Automatically seeks out and repairs broken system files.
• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth: Fixes the underlying Windows image.

Once both scans are complete, restart your PC. Did the BSOD take the day off? Fantastic!

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5. Run CHKDSK to Check Your Disk​

If your storage drive is failing, you’ll want to act fast. CHKDSK (Check Disk Utility) is your diagnostic watchdog.

• Start an Admin Command Prompt.
• Type chkdsk /f /r and hit Enter.
• If asked to schedule it on your next reboot, press Y.
• Restart the PC. CHKDSK will dive into your disk mechanics to reveal (and hopefully fix) any bad sectors or errors.

Tip: Using an SSD? Don’t sweat; CHKDSK is SSD-safe.

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6. Automatically Manage Paging File Size​

Mismanaged or insufficient virtual memory can send your system into a tailspin. Let Windows automatically handle the paging file size.

• Open Advanced System Settings:
• Windows + X → System → Advanced System Settings.
• Under Performance, hit Settings → Go to the Advanced tab.
• Click Change under Virtual Memory.
• Check the box for Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.

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7. Update Your BIOS​

Outdated BIOS firmware might be at odds with your hardware. Updating it can iron out these wrinkles—just proceed with caution.

• Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, and hit Enter.
• Note down your BIOS vendor and version.
• Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website, locate the support or downloads section, and grab the latest BIOS update for your model.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely.

Warning: Messing up a BIOS update can brick your PC! If you’re unsure, consult a professional.

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8. Reset Windows​

If nothing else works, it’s time for the nuclear option: resetting Windows for a fresh start.

• Go to Settings → Recovery.
• Under Reset this PC, hit Reset PC.
• Choose between Keep My Files or Remove Everything and follow the prompts.

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The Takeaway​

The KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR isn’t just your PC throwing a tantrum—it’s a sign that something deeper is amiss. While this guide covers all the primary fixes, it’s also a great opportunity to regularly back up your system and invest in good-quality hardware. Prevention, as always, trumps cure.
Did one of these solutions help you? Got a unique trick up your sleeve for fixing BSODs? Share your experiences with our WindowsForum.com community below, and together, let’s make the Blue Screen extinct!

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Source: MSPoweruser https://mspoweruser.com/kernel-data-inpage-error-windows-11/