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What is ntkrnlpa.exe & how to Fix its BSOD Errors?

Everything you need to fix this blue screen error

5 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

The ntkrnlpa.exe process is one of the integral processes that run in the background on a Windows PC. It ensures the smooth running of many apps and the operating system itself.

However, as important as this process is, some users complain that it sometimescauses the dreaded BSOD. If you also face problems with it, this guide will show you quick and effective ways to fix it.

What is ntkrnlpa.exe?

What is ntkrnlpa.exe?

The ntkrnlpa.exe is a kernel image designed for systems using the Microsoft Windows NT OS. These PCs run on systems that have Physical Address Extension support.

It is in charge of the Kernel and Executive layers of the Windows NT kernel space. Also, it provides a series of services like process andmemory managementand hardware virtualization.

So, this process is pretty important to the operation of your PC. If you are now encountering issues with this process, it is not the end of the world, as it can be easily fixed with the solutions in the next section.

How can I fix ntkrnlpa.exe if it is causing BSOD?

How can I fix ntkrnlpa.exe if it is causing BSOD?

1. Perform startup repair

If the ntkrnlpa.exe Blue Screen of Death issue prevents you from booting into your PC, you need to repair your startup files. You can do this using the Startup Repair tool.

2. Update the driver

One of the prominent causes of BSOD errors is an outdated driver, and the ntkrnlpa.exe is no different. So, you need to update your driver to solve the problem.

If the Windows driver updater can not find the latest driver, you can go to the manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver.

Outbyte Driver Updater

3. Run CHKDSK

In some cases, the ntkrnlpa.exe BSOD can be caused by bad disk sectors. Running the CHKDSK command should fix this.

4. Repair system files

Most BSODs like ntkrnlpa.exe errors are due to issues with your system files. You can fix this by running the DISM and SFC scans.

5. Scan for malware

Viruses can sometimes cause the ntkrnlpa.exe blue screen. The solution to this is to perform a full system scan.

6. Perform a system restore

If you can’t still fix this ntkrnlpa.exe blue screen issue, you might need to perform a system restore. This will help you restore your PC to a point where everything works well.

There you have everything you need to fix the ntkrnlpa.exe Blue Screen of Death error. With the information in this guide, you should now be able to fix the issue for good.

In the same vein, if you are experiencing a similar issue innavagio.sys BSOD error, check our detailed guide to fix it.

Feel free to let us know the solution that helped you solve this problem in the comments below.

More about the topics:BSoD errors

Ola-Hassan Bolaji

Windows Hardware Expert

A Computer Engineering graduate, he has spent most of his life reading and writing about computers.

He finds joy in simplifying complex topics into simple solutions for PC users. The quality of his work and providing step-wise tested and proven solutions to PC issues are all that matter to him.

Away from computers, he is either reading or watching football!

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Ola-Hassan Bolaji

Windows Hardware Expert

He’s a Computer Engineering graduate who has spent most of his life reading and writing about computers & operating systems.