Self HelpBoise Computer Care

Blue screen & error codes

CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED and SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION

CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED or SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION crashes? Repair system files with SFC and DISM, check the drive, and remove bad updates.

Difficulty
Medium
Time
30-60 min
Steps
7
Updated

Sounds like this?

  • CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED on the crash screen
  • SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION on the crash screen
  • Crash right after sign-in or wake from sleep

Step by step

  1. Restart and note when the crash happens: at boot, at sign-in, or during a specific app.
  2. Run sfc /scannow then DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth in an Admin Terminal, then restart.
  3. Check the drive: in Admin Terminal run chkdsk C: /scan.
  4. Update Windows and all drivers, especially storage (Intel RST/AMD) and graphics.
  5. Uninstall third-party antivirus or system optimizer tools for a test.
  6. If crashes started after an update, uninstall it: Settings › Windows Update › Update history › Uninstall updates.
  7. If nothing helps, use System Restore to a point from before the crashes.

Related error codes & messages

Quick answers

When should I stop and get professional help with "CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED and SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION"?

Stop and get help if: chkdsk reports bad sectors or the drive shows warnings. You can't get to the desktop or Safe Mode. Crashes return after System Restore. Boise Computer Care can diagnose it for a $60 fee; call 208-996-3508.

How long does this fix take and how hard is it?

Plan on 30-60 min. Difficulty: Medium.

Is it safe to try this myself?

Mostly, if you follow these precautions: Back up your files before running repair commands on a computer that is crashing often.

Which error messages or codes does this guide cover?

CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED, 0x000000EF, SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION, 0x0000003B.

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