Windows 10 update chaos: Nvidia drivers trigger blue screen of death
Windows 10 might surprise some users with the "blue screen of death" caused by updating graphics drivers. The issue lies in Nvidia drivers for computers with no longer supported processors. A similar error previously affected Windows 11.
Windows 10 has an unpleasant surprise for Nvidia card users. As noted by Neowin, computers may experience a "blue screen of death" after a software update. The issue affects computers with unsupported processors that do not handle the POPCNT instructions. Users who install the latest Nvidia graphics drivers (above version 555) will encounter a BSOD - a critical Windows problem that, in this case, cannot be resolved.
Fortunately, the problem may affect only a small number of users. This situation arises in computers running Windows 10 or 11 with a processor like the Core 2 Duo, combined with currently supported Nvidia graphics, a rare arrangement even if it exists - notes Neowin. Windows users in such a situation would be best served by preventing Windows Update from installing newer versions of Nvidia drivers. This will eliminate the problem.
Why is it worth updating drivers?
Regularly updating Windows drivers is crucial from a security standpoint. Manufacturers often release new drivers to patch detected vulnerabilities and threats. An example is the LogoFAIL vulnerability related to startup logo customisation, which was patched in one of the driver updates for AMD processors.
As a rule, updating graphics card drivers is essential for optimal performance. New drivers not only improve system stability but also address issues such as high CPU load or operational instability.
