What Should I Do If the Windows Critical Process Died Error Occurs?

Ah, the dreaded “Windows Critical Process Died” error – it’s one of those problems that pops up on your screen and leaves you wondering what the heck went wrong. Let’s get that sorted out with a few steps that could just save the day:

Step 1: Restart Your Computer in Safe Mode

First things first, let’s try restarting your PC but put it in Safe Mode. Just restart and quickly tap the F8 key before Windows starts up. That should bring up some choices – go for Safe Mode.

Step 2: Run a System File Check (SFC Scan)

If you’ve got some corrupt files lurking around, the SFC Scan might be your best bet. Fire up Command Prompt by hitting Windows Key + X, then pick Command Prompt (Admin). Type sfc /scannow and smash that Enter key.
Should find a few issues – just follow along with whatever the system suggests.

Step 3: Use the DISM Tool

Sometimes, the DISM Tool is what you need to patch things up. Open the Command Prompt like before, type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth, and let it roll.
It’ll take a few minutes, so now’s a good time to grab a coffee.

Step 4: Update Device Drivers

Outdated drivers can be a real pain. Hit Windows Key + X and jump into Device Manager. Check each category and if you spot a device with a yellow exclamation mark, right-click it, and go for Update driver.
Who knew driving updates could be this fun?

Step 5: Check for Windows Updates

Playing catch-up with Windows Updates is always a solid move. Head to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, smack that Check for updates button, and install whatever’s fresh off the update press.

Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot

Here’s the kicker – a clean boot can clear up all sorts of cobwebs. Press Windows Key + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter. Hide all the Microsoft services, hit Disable all, then tackle the Startup section in Task Manager. Restart and see how things shake out.

Step 7: Run a CHKDSK Scan

No harm in checking the disk. Open Command Prompt as admin again, type chkdsk /f /r, and tell it to run on the next start by hitting Y. Then restart.

Step 8: Restore Your System

Still running into issues? Time for a System Restore. Search for it in Windows and follow the steps to pick a restore point before all this mess started.
It might just be your get-out-of-jail card.

By following these steps, you should be able to put the “Windows Critical Process Died” error behind you. But if it keeps popping up, hitting up Microsoft Support might be the way to go.