Which Two Issues Are Likely To Cause BSOD Errors? (Choose Two.)

Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors are often caused by hardware failures and driver conflicts. These issues disrupt system operations, leading to crashes. To prevent BSOD, ensure drivers are updated and hardware is functioning properly. For detailed exam prep and troubleshooting tips, visit Study4Pass for reliable resources.

Tech Professionals

16 April 2025

CompTIA

Which Two Issues Are Likely To Cause BSOD Errors? (Choose Two.)

Introduction

The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is one of the most dreaded errors Windows users encounter. It indicates a critical system crash, forcing the operating system to shut down to prevent damage. For IT professionals and CompTIA A+ candidates, understanding the root causes of BSOD errors is essential for troubleshooting and system maintenance.

In the CompTIA A+ 220-1102 exam, you may encounter questions like:

"Which two issues are likely to cause BSOD errors? (Choose two.)"

This article explores the most common causes of BSOD errors, helping you prepare for the exam effectively. Additionally, we recommend Study4Pass for high-quality CompTIA A+ study materials, practice tests, and exam preparation resources.

What is a BSOD (Blue Screen of Death)?

A BSOD (officially called a Stop Error) occurs when Windows encounters a critical failure it cannot recover from. The system halts, displays a blue screen with an error code, and restarts (if configured). Common BSOD error codes include:

CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED
MEMORY_MANAGEMENT
SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED
IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

Understanding these errors helps diagnose hardware or software failures.

Two Most Common Causes of BSOD Errors

Based on the CompTIA A+ 220-1102 exam objectives, the two most likely causes of BSOD errors are:

Faulty or Incompatible Device Drivers
Failing Hardware (RAM, Hard Drive, or Overheating Components)

Let’s explore each in detail.

Faulty or Incompatible Device Drivers

Device drivers act as intermediaries between hardware and the operating system. If a driver is corrupt, outdated, or incompatible, it can trigger a BSOD.

Why Do Drivers Cause BSOD Errors?

Incompatibility with Windows Updates – New OS updates may conflict with older drivers.
Corrupted Driver Files – Improper installations or malware can damage driver files.
Beta or Unofficial Drivers – Untested drivers from third-party sources may cause instability.

Common BSOD Errors Related to Drivers

DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION
PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA

How to Fix Driver-Related BSODs?

Update Drivers – Use Windows Update or manufacturer websites.
Roll Back Problematic Drivers – Revert to a stable version via Device Manager.
Use Safe Mode – Boot into Safe Mode to uninstall faulty drivers.
Check for Malware – Run antivirus scans to detect driver corruption.

For CompTIA A+ exam preparation, understanding driver management is crucial. Study4Pass offers detailed A+ 220-1102 study guides covering driver troubleshooting techniques.

Failing Hardware (RAM, HDD/SSD, Overheating, or Power Issues)

Hardware failures are another leading cause of BSOD errors. Common culprits include:

A. Faulty RAM (Memory Errors)

Symptoms: Frequent crashes, "MEMORY_MANAGEMENT" BSODs.
Diagnosis: Use Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool or MemTest86.
Solution: Replace defective RAM sticks.

B. Failing Hard Drive or SSD

Symptoms: "KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR," slow performance, corrupted files.
Diagnosis: Run CHKDSK or S.M.A.R.T. diagnostics.
Solution: Backup data and replace the failing drive.

C. Overheating (CPU or GPU)

Symptoms: Sudden shutdowns, "WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR."
Diagnosis: Monitor temperatures using HWMonitor or Core Temp.
Solution: Clean dust, reapply thermal paste, or improve cooling.

D. Power Supply Issues

Symptoms: Random restarts, "CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED."
Diagnosis: Test with a known-good PSU.
Solution: Replace an underpowered or failing PSU.

For A+ exam success, mastering hardware diagnostics is vital. Study4Pass provides interactive labs and practice tests to reinforce these concepts.

Other Possible Causes of BSOD Errors (Secondary Factors)

While drivers and hardware are the top two causes, other issues can also lead to BSODs:

3. Corrupted Windows System Files

Solution: Run SFC /SCANNOW or DISM commands.

4. Malware or Virus Infections

Solution: Use Windows Defender or third-party antivirus tools.

5. Incorrect BIOS/UEFI Settings

Solution: Reset BIOS to default or update firmware.

6. Software Conflicts (Especially After Updates)

Solution: Uninstall recent updates or perform a clean boot.

How to Diagnose BSOD Errors for CompTIA A+ Exam?

The 220-1102 exam tests your troubleshooting skills. Follow these steps:

Check the BSOD Error Code – Note the STOP code (e.g., 0x0000007B).
Analyze Memory Dumps – Use BlueScreenView or WinDbg.
Review Event Viewer Logs – Look for critical errors before the crash.
Test Hardware Components – Use diagnostic tools for RAM, HDD, and CPU.
Update or Roll Back Drivers – Ensure compatibility.

For hands-on practice, Study4Pass offers virtual labs and simulations to help you master these techniques.

Why Choose Study4Pass for CompTIA A+ 220-1102 Preparation?

Preparing for the CompTIA A+ 220-1102 exam requires reliable study materials and practice tests. Study4Pass stands out because:

Up-to-Date Content – Aligned with the latest exam objectives.
Interactive Practice Tests – Simulate real exam conditions.
Detailed Explanations – Understand why answers are correct.
Hands-On Labs – Gain practical troubleshooting experience.
Mobile-Friendly Learning – Study anytime, anywhere.

Whether you're focusing on BSOD troubleshooting, OS configurations, or security concepts, Study4Pass provides the best resources for A+ certification success.

Conclusion

In the CompTIA A+ 220-1102 exam, knowing the two most likely causes of BSOD errors faulty drivers and failing hardware is essential for troubleshooting. By mastering these concepts, you can diagnose and resolve critical system crashes effectively.

For comprehensive A+ Exam Preparation, visit Study4Pass today and access expert study guides, practice exams, and interactive labs to boost your IT career!