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9 Ways to Fix Unexpected Kernel Mode Trap Windows 11 Error
BSoDs are easier than ever to fix due to our troubleshooting steps
9 min. read
Updated onApril 15, 2024
updated onApril 15, 2024
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Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap is a BSoD error sometimes accompanied by the 0x00000007F error code. When it appears, a black screen that includes the Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap error message, and Windows restarts. The issue can be caused by incompatible hardware, outdated drivers, or corrupted system files.
How can I fix the Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap error?
1. Check for hardware problems
The Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap BSoD is commonly caused by hardware failures so you should first check the CPU and GPU fans and also the memory. If you have a desktop PC, look inside and see if the fans are working properly and the components are not overheating.
The same can also happen to laptops and if it heats up more than usual, we recommend turning it off and ask for professional help. Overheating can eventually damage the components so it’s an urgent matter to deal with. Also, try reseating the RAM modules on a desktop PC and check if that solves the issue.
2. Check recently installed hardware device compatibility
Did the Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap error arise on your desktop or laptop shortly after you installed (added) new hardware? If so, it’s feasible that the newly installed hardware has generated the issue.
Therefore, it’s recommended that users who need to fix the Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap Windows 11 error disconnect and uninstall recently installed devices from their PCs.
Then restart your computer to see if the issue persists. If not, the new hardware might not have been incompatible with your computer’s software.
3. Run a System File Checker scan
If you want a more thorough integrity scan of your Windows files, you should use aspecialized toolto find and repair any corrupted or damaged files.
4. Check for malware
5. Stop overclocking your PC
Have you overclocked your PC’s processor with third-party overclocking software? If so, that could be why you need to fix the Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap error on Windows 11.
This potential resolution, unsurprisingly enough, is to reverse all the overclocking you’ve applied to your computer. Instead, restore your PC’s processor to its default clock speed. To do so, look for a restore system default option within youroverclocking software.
6. Run the CHKDSK scan
7. Update device drivers
Then you can try updating them with thedriver updater utility, manually or via Device Manager. Even if the tools from our list are dedicated to Windows 10, most of them are compatible with the new OS as well.
The best way to update device drivers is to utilize driver updater software.Outbyte Driver Updateris a tool that will scan your PC and list all the devices for which you need to update drivers.
Outbyte Driver Updater uses a frequently updated database of over 18 million driver files ready to be safely installed to replace your outdated drivers.
Outbyte Driver Updater
8. Run a Windows Memory Diagnostic check
9. Restore Windows 11 to an earlier date
You might need to reinstall some software after rolling back Windows 11. You can check what software a selected restore removes by clickingScan for affected programsinSystem Restore.
10. Reset Windows 11
What causes an Unexpected Kernel Mode Trap?
It’s a bit technical, but the Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap error’s bug check highlights that the Windows OS kernel failed to capture a trap generated by a PC’s CPU. Unfortunately, that means your computer might have faulty or mismatched hardware.
For example, your PC could have faulty RAM (system memory). Or some of the included drives and disk controllers might be incompatible with Windows 11.
This error can also arise because of outdated or incompatible device drivers on your PC. Unfortunately, this often happens after upgrading to Windows 11.
Aside from that, corrupted system files, overclocked CPUs, and malware are other potential causes for the Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap error in Windows 11. Therefore, as expected, there are quite a fewcommon causes of Blue Screen of Death errors.
Our readers reported other cases where the Unexpected Kernel Mode Trap error appeared, and some of them are the following:
How do I use the blue screen troubleshooter?
Microsoft’sonline Windows Blue Screen Troubleshooteris a wizard designed to assist beginner users in fixing the BSOD errors they see on their computers.
Along the route, it connects you to valuable resources and steps. Check the radio buttons next to the appropriate answers that suit your case.
How can I enter Safe Mode for troubleshooting?
Try entering the Windows Recovery Environment if you can’t log in to Windows because of the Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap error. To do so, press and hold thePowerbutton for 5-10 seconds during startup (preferably at a logo) to force shutdown. Do that three times to enter recovery mode.
When you’ve entered theWindows Recovery Environment, you can select enter Safe mode. This diagnostic (troubleshooting) mode for Windows starts the OS in a basic state with minimal drivers and files. You can enter that mode via WinRE as follows:
These are some of the most potential fixes for the Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap error. Of course, that doesn’t mean they’re guaranteed, but there’s a good chance they’ll resolve the issue.
Microsoft also has a Blue Screen of Death troubleshooter, which might help some users fix the Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap error. You can check out that troubleshooter by opening itsTroubleshoot blue screen errors webpage.
Also, don’t hesitate to check out this guide on how tosolve the startup error 0x0000000F. Windows 11 users can also apply the tips mentioned here for Windows 10.
However, we also have a complete guide on fixingUnexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap error in Windows 10.
If the resolutions in this guide don’t fix your computer’s Unexpected_Kernel_Mode_Trap error, your PC could have a deeper hardware issue, such as a failing power supply or faulty motherboard component. In this case, consider returning it to its manufacturer’s repair service.
If you found this guide helpful, we appreciate your feedback. How did you solve the error? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments area below.
More about the topics:BSoD errors,Windows 11
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
