PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA is a memory-related blue screen error. It typically indicates a problem with your RAM, drivers, or system files.
What Does This Error Mean?
This error (Stop Code 0x00000050) occurs when Windows tries to access memory that should always be available but isn’t. Think of it as Windows reaching for something that should be there but isn’t.
Common Causes
- Faulty RAM - Most common cause
- Incompatible RAM - Mismatched memory modules
- Corrupted drivers - Especially recently installed ones
- Failing hard drive - Causing paging file errors
- Software conflicts - Antivirus or system utilities
- Windows file corruption - Damaged system files
Quick Diagnosis
The blue screen may show a file name after the error:
- ntfs.sys - Storage/file system issue
- win32k.sys - Graphics driver problem
- ntoskrnl.exe - Core Windows issue
- Driver file name - Specific driver is faulty
Immediate Fixes
Fix 1: Restart and Observe
Sometimes the error is temporary:
- Restart your computer normally
- If it boots, use the computer and see if it recurs
- One-time errors may not need fixing
Fix 2: Boot into Safe Mode
If crashes are frequent:
- Hold Shift while clicking Restart
- Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart
- Press 4 for Safe Mode
- If Safe Mode is stable, a driver or software is the cause
Fix 3: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic
Test your RAM for errors:
- Press Windows + R, type
mdsched, Enter - Click Restart now and check for problems
- Let the test complete (takes 10-30 minutes)
- Check results after restart
If errors are found: You likely have faulty RAM that needs replacement.
Fix 4: Run SFC and DISM
Repair corrupted system files:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Run:
sfc /scannow - Then run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Restart and test
Driver-Related Fixes
Update Drivers
If the error names a specific driver:
- Open Device Manager
- Find the device related to the named file
- Right-click, select Update driver
- Install from manufacturer website for best results
Roll Back Drivers
If the error started after a driver update:
- Open Device Manager
- Right-click the device
- Properties > Driver tab > Roll Back Driver
- Restart
Uninstall Problematic Drivers
Completely remove and reinstall:
- In Device Manager, right-click the device
- Select Uninstall device
- Check Delete the driver software
- Restart - Windows will install a basic driver
- Install the latest driver from manufacturer
RAM-Related Fixes
Reseat Your RAM
Loose RAM connections cause errors:
For Desktop:
- Shut down and unplug
- Open the case
- Release RAM clips and remove modules
- Clean contacts with eraser (gently)
- Reinsert firmly until clips snap
- Test
For Laptop:
- Usually requires removing bottom panel
- If uncomfortable, seek professional help
Test Individual RAM Sticks
If you have multiple sticks:
- Remove all but one RAM stick
- Run Memory Diagnostic
- If no errors, add another stick
- Repeat until you find the faulty one
Check RAM Compatibility
Mismatched RAM causes issues:
- All sticks should be same speed (MHz)
- All sticks should be same type (DDR4, DDR5, etc.)
- Check motherboard QVL (Qualified Vendor List)
Storage-Related Fixes
Run CHKDSK
Check for hard drive errors:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Run:
chkdsk C: /f /r - Type Y to schedule
- Restart and let it complete
Check Drive Health
Use CrystalDiskInfo:
- Download and install
- Check Health Status
- If “Caution” or “Bad,” back up data immediately
Software-Related Fixes
Uninstall Recent Software
Recent programs may conflict:
- Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps
- Sort by Date installed
- Uninstall recently added programs
- Restart and test
Disable Fast Startup
Fast Startup can cause memory issues:
- Open Control Panel > Power Options
- Click Choose what the power buttons do
- Click Change settings that are currently unavailable
- Uncheck Turn on fast startup
- Save and restart
Reset Virtual Memory
Corrupted paging file causes this error:
- Search for Advanced system settings
- Under Performance, click Settings
- Go to Advanced > Virtual memory > Change
- Uncheck automatic management
- Set to No paging file, click Set
- Restart
- Return and re-enable automatic paging
Advanced Solutions
Perform Clean Boot
Identify problematic software:
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig - Services tab > Check Hide all Microsoft services > Disable all
- Startup tab > Open Task Manager > Disable all
- Restart
If stable, enable items in groups to find the culprit.
Update BIOS
Outdated BIOS can cause memory issues:
- Note your current BIOS version (check System Information)
- Visit motherboard/laptop manufacturer’s website
- Download latest BIOS
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully
Warning: BIOS updates carry risk. Don’t interrupt the process.
System Restore
Go back to when it worked:
- Search for Create a restore point
- Click System Restore
- Select a restore point before the errors
- Follow prompts
When to Replace Hardware
Signs You Need New RAM
- Memory Diagnostic finds errors
- Errors persist with different RAM slots
- Multiple blue screens with memory errors
- Computer randomly freezes
Signs of Other Hardware Failure
- Errors occur in Safe Mode
- CHKDSK finds unfixable bad sectors
- Computer is very slow generally
- Strange noises from hard drive
Memory Errors Won’t Stop? Our Dallas technicians have professional diagnostic tools to identify faulty RAM and other hardware issues. We can test your memory thoroughly and replace bad modules. Same-day service throughout DFW.
Preventing Memory Errors
- Use matched RAM - Same brand, speed, and capacity
- Check compatibility before buying RAM
- Keep computer cool - Heat damages RAM
- Use a surge protector - Power spikes damage memory
- Don’t cheap out on RAM - Quality matters
- Update drivers regularly
Dallas-Fort Worth Memory Repair
We diagnose and fix memory-related blue screens throughout DFW including Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Irving, Arlington, and all surrounding areas.
