Windows 10: BSOD with watchdog violation error while playing videogames

Windows 11, gaming laptop. When I play games on my laptop it can freeze and give me a BSOD with "watchdog violation error" at any time and game. I've already had another topic with this issue but the problem is still here. I've also tried to update my graphics card drivers from NVIDIA website, but it looks like either I've done it wrong or the problem is hiding behind something else.Here is the topic where you can see my previous steps:https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_10-performance/program-crashes-and-triggers-blue-screen-with/5a4ad4bf-aeff-48a9-a2cd-98166af4dc1b?rtAc

:)

 

DPC Watchdog Violation BSOD

Dear Bill F Curtis,

Welcome to the Microsoft Community



Thank you for reaching out about the recurring DPC Watchdog Violation BSOD error you've been experiencing. I understand how frustrating it can be to encounter such issues regularly. Based on the information you've provided, it seems like the error is related to the ACPI.sys driver, specifically pointing to ACPIInterruptEventCompletion.



The DPC Watchdog Violation error typically occurs when a Deferred Procedure Call (DPC) exceeds the permitted time limit, leading to a system crash (Blue Screen of Death or BSOD). The ACPI.sys driver manages Advanced Configuration and Power Interface functionalities in Windows, which are critical for power management and device enumeration.



To further diagnose and resolve this issue, I recommend the following steps:



Steps to Resolve DPC Watchdog Violation Error:

1. Update Drivers: Ensure all your drivers, especially the ACPI-related ones, are up to date. Outdated or corrupted drivers can often cause such errors. Please download the latest adapted driver from the hardware manufacturer's website and install it.
   
2. Check for BIOS Update: Sometimes, BIOS updates include fixes for ACPI-related issues. Visit your computer manufacturer's website to check if there's a BIOS update available for your specific model. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when updating the BIOS.
   
3. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic: Memory issues can also contribute to DPC Watchdog Violation errors. Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool to check for memory problems:
   
   • Press Windows key + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
     
   • Choose to restart and check for problems.
     
4. Disable Overclocking (if applicable):If you've overclocked your CPU or GPU, revert to default settings temporarily. Overclocking can sometimes destabilize system components and lead to BSOD errors.
   

If the issue continues despite these steps, it might be beneficial to consult with a qualified technician who can perform more in-depth diagnostics.

Please let me know how these steps work for you or if you have any further questions. We're here to assist you further.

Best Regards,

Martin | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

 

Help! Watchdog Violation

More info on that BSOD

How to Fix DPC_Watchdog_Violation Blue Screen error

 

Help! Watchdog Violation

Thanks, good info for the future (hopefully not)! I had never heard of this.