If it isn’t apparent already, the Blue Screen of Death error is a hardware or device driver issue that occurs commonly with systems that use Windows.

Also known as a STOP error, this usually occurs for a number of reasons including installing a new program, update, driver or hardware for that matter. Hence, it is recommended that you run a Repair Installation or Startup Repair after backing up your files.

Here are 6 steps to fixing the Blue Screen of Death on Windows:

Step #1: Start Windows using the Safe Mode or Last Known Good Configuration

Step #2: Select “Repair your Computer” in Advanced Options for Windows 7 to run software that are either system diagnostic or repair tools in nature. Some of these include Command Prompt, System Restore and Start-up Repair.

Step #3: If you’re not aware of these tools, you can also contact online computer support to run diagnostics once you’ve started the system in Safe Mode with Networking. The advantage of such an approach is that you will be able to fix your computer, thanks to a remote technician who should be access your computer over the network.

Step #4: Also, run Windows Memory Diagnostic to test if any RAM errors exist. This application usually runs automatically if you boot the computer using Windows from a CD.

Step #5: Another tool which can be used is the Windows Scan Disk which will test hard drives and repair disk errors. Ensure that in order to improve the PC’s health, it’s also a good idea to defragment the hard disk and run optimization programs as well.

Step #6: Finally, install Windows Updates and Service Packs.