How to Fix a DPC Watchdog Violation on Windows 10 and 11

The DPC Watchdog Violation is an error you might see on your Windows computer, usually showing up as the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). This happens when Windows finds a problem during startup that it can’t fix on its own.

The error is often caused by issues with your computer’s drivers, hardware, or system files. Fixing this error involves some troubleshooting steps to figure out and solve the problem. By understanding what causes this error and how to prevent it, you can keep your computer running smoothly.

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What is the Windows DPC Watchdog Violation Problem?

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The Windows DPC Watchdog Violation is an error that shows up when you start your computer. It’s part of what we call the Blue Screen Errors in Windows. “DPC” means Deferred Procedure Call, which is a function that Windows uses to handle certain operations.

The “Watchdog” refers to a system checker that looks for issues in Windows as it starts up. This error can cause your computer to stop working properly during the startup process.

Causes of Windows 10 DPC Watchdog Violation

Driver Issues: This includes problems with outdated or incompatible drivers, especially those for your hard drive controller.
Connected Peripherals: Issues arise from external devices like USB drives and printers connected to your computer.
Hardware Problems: This covers defects in essential components like RAM or solid-state drives.
System File Corruption: Pertains to any damage or absence of crucial files within the Windows operating system.

The Greatest Windows 10 and Windows 11 Solutions

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To identify the best Windows solutions, it’s time to do a thorough hardware and software analysis of your machine. Follow the instructions carefully under each step until you identify the root of the issue so that you can identify and address it successfully.

Generally speaking, you should attempt these procedures in the sequence we’ve stated them because the latter options take a lot longer and the initial ones are the fastest.

Method 1: Disconnect External Devices

External devices can cause the DPC Watchdog Violation due to hardware conflicts. To fix this, remove any recently added external hard drives, SSDs, printers, or scanners, then restart your computer.

If your PC works well without these devices, reconnect them one by one to identify which one triggers the error. This method helps you pinpoint the problematic device while keeping the others functional.

Method 2: Updating the IDE ATA/ATAPI Controller

Many Windows users have resolved the DPC Watchdog Violation error by adjusting the IDE ATA/ATAPI controller settings on their computers. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Open Device Manager

Press Windows + X on your keyboard, then select Device Manager from the menu.

Step 2: Locate the Controller

In Device Manager, expand IDE ATA/ATAPI Controllers, right-click SATA AHCI Controller, and choose Properties.

Step 3: Check the Driver

Go to the Driver tab, click Driver Details, and check if the driver shows iastorA.sys.

Step 4: Identify the Driver

If it shows storage.sys instead, go back to the Driver tab and click Update Driver.

Step 5: Update the Driver

Follow these steps:

Select Browse my computer for driver software.
Choose Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer.
Pick Standard SATA AHCI Controller from the list.
Restart the Computer

After updating the driver, restart your computer to ensure the changes are applied.

Method 3: Scan Your System Files for Errors

If the error continues, you might have corrupted or damaged system files. Here’s how to use the System File Checker (SFC) to examine and fix them:

Step 1. Search for ‘cmd’ in the Windows search box. Choose Run as administrator by right-clicking on the Command Prompt.

Step 2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

Step 3. Wait for the scan to complete.

The scan will report back if it finds and fixes any corrupted files. To apply the fixes, restart your computer if it does. If no issues are found, simply close the window.

Method 4: Updating Your Solid State Drives (SSDs)

SSDs are popular for boosting PC performance and speed. If you’re adjusting your device, ensure that your SSD’s firmware is compatible with your computer. Here’s a straightforward way to update your SSD drivers:

Step 1. Press Windows+X and select Device Manager.

Step 2. Expand the Disk Drives section to see all your storage devices.

Step 3. Right-click on each storage device listed and choose Update Driver.

Step 4. Select Search Automatically for Drivers to let your computer find and install any available updates.

Repeat these steps for each storage device to keep your system current and potentially resolve the DPC Watchdog Violation error.

Method 5: Perform a System Restore

When other solutions fail, consider using a system restore. This tool helps revert your computer to a previous working state.

It’s especially helpful if your device is affected by issues like incompatible files, problematic updates, or programs causing trouble that you can’t pinpoint or resolve on your own.

Step 1. Open the Control Panel and switch the view to Small Icons using the “View By” drop-down menu at the top right.

Step 2. Click on System.

Step 3. Choose System Protection from the options on the right under “Related Settings”.

Step 4. Click on System Restore and follow the instructions in the setup wizard.

The restoration might take 15-20 minutes. After it’s completed, restart your computer to apply the changes.

How to Prevent DPC Watchdog Violation Errors?

Fixing problems is never as successful as preventing them. Here are some tips to help you avoid the DPC Watchdog Violation error:

Update Your Drivers Regularly: Make sure all your device drivers are current. This includes drivers for storage controllers like the Standard SATA AHCI Controller, as well as graphics cards and network adapters. Consider using automated driver updater software to manage updates effortlessly.
Use Compatible External Devices: Always check that any external devices you connect to your PC are compatible and have the latest drivers. Try to avoid relying on outdated or generic drivers that Windows might provide.
Careful Hardware Installation: When installing or updating hardware, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Errors and loose connections might result from improper installation.
Maintain Your System: Keep your Windows 10 PC running smoothly with regular maintenance.
Use disk cleanup tools to clear out temporary files and redundant data.
Update your antivirus and anti-malware programs to protect against potential threats that can destabilize your system.
Manage your startup programs to avoid overloading your system with unnecessary tasks.

Conclusion

DPC Watchdog Violation error can usually be fixed by following a few simple steps. Keep your drivers up to date, check that external devices work well with your PC, and regularly clean and maintain your system.

If these steps don’t solve the problem, updating your SSD’s software, checking for corrupted system files, or restoring your system might be needed. Taking care of these issues quickly helps keep your computer running smoothly and prevents bigger problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a DPC Watchdog Violation?

A DPC Watchdog Violation is a serious computer error that stops your computer and shows a blue screen. It happens when Windows detects a problem that it can’t fix on its own.

Is a DPC Watchdog Violation Serious?

A DPC watchdog violation is a serious issue as it is classified under the Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) errors, which are major system errors in Windows.

What Causes this Error?

Common causes include old or broken drivers, problems with hardware, corrupted system files, or issues with devices like USBs connected to your computer.

How Can I Fix this Error?

You can try updating your drivers, removing new hardware or external devices, checking your computer for damaged files, or going back to a previous setting with system restore.