1. RAM Problems

Because your computer keeps important data in RAM, issues with your memory can cause Windows to crash. Error names like Fatal Exception Error usually pop up when Windows tries to retrieve data from memory but can’t do so properly. If this keeps happening, your RAM may be failing.

2. Driver Issues

Drivers are specialized pieces of software that allow Windows to interface with the various hardware connected to your computer. Most of the time, drivers install and update automatically when you connect a new peripheral or run Windows Update. However, when drivers go bad, they can cause serious problems. Manually installing the wrong driver, or updating to a buggy version provided by the manufacturer, are common ways for this to happen. When troubleshooting the blue screen error, keep an eye out for mentions of any specific hardware, as it may be the culprit. It’s also a good idea to open the Device Manager (accessible by right-clicking the Start button) and check for any warning symbols, which represent hardware conflicts

3. A Failing Hard Drive

If the storage drive (whether a hard drive or solid state drive) in your computer is going bad, you may experience Windows crashes. This might manifest itself through crashes that only happen when you try to open specific files, which indicates that a certain section of the drive is dying.

For an older HDD, a clicking sound is another telltale sign of a failing drive. Because Windows needs to access files across your storage disk to run properly, it can crash if the disk can’t read those files.

4. An Overheating Computer

Too much heat causes major problems for the sensitive components inside your computer. A system that runs too hot for a long period of time might become permanently damaged. To combat this, your computer will often shut itself down when it gets too hot, usually resulting in a Windows crash.

An overheating problem can have many sources. If you have a desktop, make sure that your case has enough ventilation. You should also check to make sure that all fans inside are working properly and that the heatsinks aren’t loose. Be sure to clean your computer regularly to remove excess dust, too.

5. Malware Infections

Malicious software, including viruses, Trojans, and other unwanted junk, can wreak havoc on your system. While troubleshooting Windows 10 crashes, it makes sense to run an anti-malware scan to rule out any foul play.

Scanning with the built-in Windows Defender is a good first option.

6. Software Conflicts

Most software errors don’t bring about a Windows crash; they only affect the app in question. However, sometimes particularly bad software crashes can lock up the entire system. If Windows crashes when you open a certain app, you should try reinstalling the software to see if it fixes the problem.