How to Fix DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE Error in Windows: A Complete Guide

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A common issue faced by Windows users is the DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE error, which can lead to a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). This error typically occurs when a device or driver attempts to transition into an invalid power state. It is identified by the stop code 0x9F, which signifies that a device has reported an impossible power state, and it commonly arises in relation to a system entering or waking from sleep mode. In this detailed report, we'll explore how to diagnose and resolve this issue effectively.

Understanding DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE​

When the DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE error occurs, it sends the computer into a state of crash in order to prevent further damage to the system or storage devices. As part of the Windows stop code family, the code associated with this error (0x9F) is crucial for understanding the failure's cause. The error typically involves:

• Transitioning into sleep mode while the system is running.
• Out-of-bounds power state situations when waking from sleep. Diagnosing the root cause involves examining the crash dump file, a memory snapshot, created when the BSOD occurs. Tools such as BlueScreenView can assist in identifying specific files linked to the failure, often pointing to problematic drivers.

Common Culprits​

Among the various devices that could cause this error, USB storage devices are significant offenders. These include:

• USB flash drives.
• Drive docks or enclosures.
• External hard drives. Given the nature of the error, the steps to mitigate it should begin with removing these devices from the system.

Steps to Fix DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE​

1. Disconnect External Devices​

The first step when encountering a DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE error is to disconnect all external USB storage devices. This includes:

• USB flash drives.
• External hard drives. Devices such as keyboards, mice, and monitors seldom trigger this specific error and can typically remain connected.

2. Check for Driver Updates​

If you've recently updated the driver for a connected device and the error started occurring following that, consider rolling back to a previous driver version. This can be done through the Device Manager by right-clicking on the device in question and selecting "Uninstall device."

3. Boot in Safe Mode​

If the issue persists, booting your system into Safe Mode can help mitigate problems caused by newly-installed drivers. To do this:

• Restart your computer.
• As the computer boots, repeatedly press the F8 or Shift + F8 keys to enter Advanced Boot Options.
• Select Safe Mode from the options presented. Once in Safe Mode, navigate to the Device Manager, right-click on any newly-added drivers, and uninstall them. Windows should restore the previous working version on the next boot.

4. Update Device Drivers​

If problems continue, it may be necessary to manually check for updated drivers. Visit the manufacturer's website for each device to determine if newer, compatible drivers are available. Driver repositories such as Station Drivers are also great places to check.

5. Execute Repair Commands​

If all driver maneuvers fail, running standard Windows repair commands could assist in resolving the issue. Open an administrative Command Prompt or PowerShell session and run the following commands:

 Dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth SFC /scannow

[*The DISM command* checks components of the running Windows image for integrity and repairs any issues detected. [The SFC command** replaces corrupted system files. Microsoft recommends using the DISM command before the SFC command because it possesses more advanced repair capabilities.

6. Last Resort: Hardware Replacement​

If none of the previous steps yield successful results, you may need to consider replacing the problematic device. It’s advisable to switch to a different hardware component until a suitable driver becomes available to address the issue.

Conclusion​

The DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE error is frustrating, but a structured troubleshooting approach can often resolve it. Start by removing external devices, check for problematic drivers, and, if needed, make use of Windows' repair functions. If all else fails, replacing the offending device may be the only remaining solution. Having a reliable backup before making any significant changes is also wise, especially for critical files or entire system states. This can prevent data loss and speed up recovery if any issues arise during the troubleshooting process. Stay informed and proactive in maintaining your Windows system. Being knowledgeable about such issues can save you time and frustration in the long run. Overall, addressing the DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE error can restore your computer’s stability, allowing you to work seamlessly without interruptions. For more detailed information, you can read the original article from Tom’s Hardware How to Fix a DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE Error in Windows. Author: Ed Tittel, a veteran in IT writing and research, has extensive experience in covering operating systems and driver-related topics.

 

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What's Happening Under the Hood?​

When you see the error message stating, “We can’t sign in to your account” or that you’ve been signed in with a temporary profile, Windows is essentially indicating that it couldn’t load your usual user profile for one reason or another. Instead, it creates a temporary profile that allows you to sign in, but—here’s the catch—any files or changes you make while using this temporary session are lost once you log off.
This issue is often linked to one of a few common problems:

• Corrupted user profile: Files in your original profile may be damaged.
• System updates or temporary glitches: Sometimes updates or other system hiccups cause profile loading errors.
• Interference from antivirus software: Occasionally, aggressive antivirus settings may hamper the sign-in process.
• Connectivity or account configuration issues: Network problems or misconfigured account settings can play a role.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide​

Before you start feeling helpless in the face of this error, consider these troubleshooting steps that have helped many Windows users regain access to their original profiles.

1. Restart and Update​

• Restart Your Device: The simplest fix is often the best. Restarting your device can clear out temporary glitches.
• Check for Updates: Head to Power > Update and restart. Installing any pending Windows updates can resolve compatibility or profile loading issues.

2. Internet and Account Verification​

• Confirm Your Connection: Sometimes, Windows needs a network connection to verify your credentials. Ensure that you're connected—if Wi-Fi isn't working, try using an Ethernet cable.
• Verify Your Password/PIN: Type your sign-in details with the on-screen keyboard to avoid errors like a mistakenly active Caps Lock. If you've recently changed your password, try signing in with your previous one to check if the system still recognizes it.

3. Explore Alternate Sign-In Options​

• Try a Different Account: If your device has multiple accounts, try logging in with another account. You can select another user from the sign-in screen or use the “Other user” option.
• Safe Mode: Booting your device in Safe Mode can be a revealing test. If you can sign in successfully there, it’s likely that third-party applications or drivers might be interfering with your normal sign-in process:
• Restart your device and hold the Shift key while selecting Power > Restart.
• When presented with the “Choose an option” screen, navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
• Once restarted, select Safe Mode with Networking (usually option 5 or F5).

4. Disable Interfering Services Temporarily​

• Antivirus and Defender Services: Some antivirus applications or Windows Defender components might block profile loading. Try temporarily disabling them:
• Open the Services app (type "services" in the taskbar search box).
• Find the Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection and Microsoft Defender Antivirus services.
• Right-click each one, change the Startup Type to Disabled, and click OK.
• Restart your device normally and attempt to sign in. (Remember to revert these changes once the issue is resolved!)

5. Repair a Corrupted User Profile​

If you suspect that your user profile is damaged, a more involved solution may be needed:

• Create a New Local Administrator Account:
• Add a new account via Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
• Log in using the new account.
• Copy Files from the Corrupted Profile:
• Navigate to C:\Users\<Old_Username> using File Explorer.
• Copy all necessary files and folders (avoid showing hidden or system files).
• Paste them into your new account’s folder C:\Users\<New_Username>.
• Switch to a Microsoft account if needed after migration.

Quick Reference: Troubleshooting Table​

Step	Action Details	Why It Helps
Restart Device	Simple reboot from Power menu	Clears temporary glitches
Check for Updates	Select Power > Update and restart	Ensures system is current
Internet Connection	Verify network connectivity (Wi-Fi/Ethernet)	Required for account verification
Type Credentials Carefully	Use on-screen keyboard, check Caps Lock, verify input	Prevents typing mistakes
Try Alternate Sign-In Options	Use another account or log in via Safe Mode	Isolates profile-specific issues
Disable Antivirus/Defender	Temporarily disable Windows Defender or third-party antivirus services	Identifies software interference
Repair/Replace Corrupted Profile	Create a new user account and migrate data from the old profile	Fixes corruption issues

Why Does This Matter for Windows Users?​

Error messages like these might seem minor but they hint at deeper system integrity issues or conflicts that can affect your Windows experience. Regular updates, sound antivirus practices, and routine system maintenance not only help prevent such errors but also fortify security against emerging threats. As Windows 11 and Windows 10 continue to evolve, understanding and troubleshooting these errors becomes part of maintaining a smooth, productive experience.
For those of you who like to empower yourselves by understanding the underlying mechanics—this error is a subtle reminder to keep backups and periodically review your user settings. Whether it’s your work documents or cherished media files, a quick backup to external storage might save you a headache in times of trouble.

Final Thoughts​

Encountering the “We can’t sign in to your account” error is undoubtedly an inconvenience, but with these step-by-step troubleshooting tips, you’re well-equipped to diagnose and resolve the issue. How many times have you rebooted your PC and thought, “Simple problems sometimes have simple fixes”? Often, these solutions lie in the realm of network checks, system restarts, and user profile repairs. So next time you’re locked out of your Windows account, don’t panic—double-check your steps and use this guide as your roadmap to resolution.
Have you experienced this error before? What worked for you, or did you discover an unconventional workaround? Share your thoughts and tips with the community. After all, the best solutions often come from a collective pool of shared knowledge. Happy troubleshooting!