Are you facing the DPC Watchdog Violation error regularly on your Windows PC? Stop ignoring it as it may cause serious harm. We have compiled this article where you can find out the exact reasons behind DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION error along with different methods on how to fix it.
All methods given in this article are in detail with full steps so that you can easily fix the problem yourself. So scroll down and start reading.
What is DPC Watch Violation Error?
It is a very common BSOD error that comes with an error message “DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION”. This error can also appear with a code of 0x133.
In later versions of Windows (such as 7/8 and 10), the BSODs appear in a more friendly blue colour, but the error messages still represent the same problems. When such errors occur, the immediate repair available to the end-user is to restart the computer. That means that, in any file or document you were working on, it will essentially be lost.
Causes of this Error
As with most BSOD errors, there are so many different things that can trigger a DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION. However, of the various causes, the most common tend to be the following:
- The hard drive has damaged sectors.
- The SSD drive has obsolete firmware.
- The hardware device drivers are outdated.
- A hardware conflict between one or more devices.
- A hardware component is not installed correctly.
- The computer has been infected with a virus/malware.
In addition to the various causes above, incompatible keyboard or touch keyboard drivers are also known causes. Although not as common, several users have reported using certain unconventional methods to solve it.
How to Fix DPC WATCHDOG VIOLATION on Windows
At the beginning of this tutorial, I mentioned that there are many different things that can cause this error. So, in the next section, I will share several methods that many users, like you, have used to correct this error. So keep reading for that.
Note: These methods will help you fix the error in Windows 10, 8 and 7.
1. Update Device Drivers
If you are experiencing this error and do not have an SSD, but have a hard drive that is at least 256GB in size, then the error may still be caused by your SATA drive.
However, it is also known that the DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION error is due to out-of-date video card drivers, mouse drivers, keyboard drivers, and touchpad drivers, which allow a large number of controllers to contemplate re-installation; Fortunately, there is an automated option that you can use to save you a lot of time and anguish. That automated solution is DriverAssist or DriverBooster, a tool designed to automatically search the Internet, locate and download all the latest drivers for all devices connected to your computer, with a single click of a button.
2. Run a Virus Scan
Scanning your system for malware and viruses is something you must do regularly, whether you have an identifiable error or not. However, if you are experiencing the DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION error, it may be a good idea to thoroughly scan your system for viruses/malware that may be hidden in your system.
Either use the default Windows Defender or use a proper Antivirus solution like Norton, Avira, Avast, Bitdefender, etc.
3. Repair Windows
If your computer was working fine and suddenly began to show the various symptoms that are most commonly associated with the error, then, since the error was not caused by a defective hardware component, a Windows repair installation may be your only viable option.
To perform a repair installation, you will need your Windows CD and your license code. The process should not be too difficult, as long as you have all the necessary parts.
4. Update the Firmware
DPC WATCHDOG VIOLATION is a very common error in Windows-based systems with solid-state drives (SSD). Many SSDs have difficulty functioning correctly on newer Windows systems, so they require an update. Firmware is essentially a set of instructions that are usually installed internally. These instructions are used by the device, when it is turned on, for its functionality. Anyway, for instructions on how to update the firmware, simply do the following:
- First, start your computer with all administrative rights.
- Once inside, press the Windows + R key, type devmgmt.msc and click OK.
- Once the Device Manager is loaded, click + next to Disk Drives and then enter the Name and Model Number of your SSD.
4. With the Name and the Model Number, go to one of the main search engines and perform a search for <Name / Model Number> Firmware; alternatively, you can visit the SSD manufacturer’s website and locate the firmware there (using the details you acquired from Device Manager).
5. Once you have found the correct firmware, download it and install it, then restart your computer.
5. Disable Quick Start
It has been shown that this method is quite adept at correcting the error. Anyway, to disable this function, simply do the following:
Note: this option is not available on Windows XP-based systems.
1. First, start your computer with all administrative rights.
2. Then press the Windows + R key, type Control Panel and click OK.
3. Once the Control Panel loads, click on System and Security.
4. On the System and Security screen, click Change what the power buttons do.
5. On the Define Power Buttons screen and enable password protection, click Change settings that are not currently available.
6. Finally, in Power off settings, uncheck the box next to Enable quick start and click Save changes.
Final Words – Avoid this Error
Always keep your windows updated and make sure that your installed drivers are up to date. It also shuts down your computer correctly. And do not force your PC to shut down. Avoid installing pirated software such as Cracks, triggers, voided games, etc. Always use the latest version of the Intel management engine interface and keep it updated.
So, that’ everything about this error. I hope you were able to Fix DPC Watchdog Violation error using the methods given in this article.
