Welcome to the world of troubleshooting NMI hardware failure on Windows 10! NMI (non-maskable interrupt) is a type of interrupt used by the CPU. It alerts the operating system of a hardware issue that needs immediate and prompt attention.
This can be quite a difficult problem to diagnose and fix. But with a few simple steps, you can be on your way to a successful resolution.
In this tutorial, we will discuss the most common causes of NMI hardware failure on Windows 10. Then, you should be able to go about resolving the issue. Let’s go!
What is NMI error?
NMI (Non-Maskable Interrupts) error is an interrupt the OS cannot disable that. It is used for critical system errors requiring immediate attention. NMI hardware failure can occur on a Windows 10 HP computer or Dell computer.
These errors are triggered when a system component experiences a failure or other error condition. Several hardware issues cause NMI issues or even software issues. The following can cause an NMI error:
- Faulty memory: Faulty memory causes NMI errors and should be checked.
- Overheating of components: When components exceed their prescribed temperature rating, then an error occurs.
- Power supply issues: Power supply is primary to the use of a PC. Hence, there will be a major error if there is an issue.
- Corrupted or outdated BIOS or CMOS Settings: This controls the PC’s basic input/output system. It must not be faulty.
- Faulty or outdated device drivers: Device drivers, when outdated, can cause NMI errors. Updating is important.
- Damaged motherboard: The motherboard is the soul of the computer. Either take extreme care or you will lose your PC.
- Outdated operating system: The operating system is regularly updated to meet the current technological needs. Your PC must have the current OS.
How do I know if my hardware is failing Windows 10?
The most common way to tell if your hardware is failing is to look for error messages or any other signs of instability in Windows 10. You can also look at the Event Viewer in Windows to find any errors that indicate a hardware failure or issue.
Other things to look for include frequent blue screens, random restarts, and freezing. If you suspect a hardware issue, try running a diagnostic test on your hardware to determine the cause.
Now that the problems have been identified let’s dive into the solutions.
How do I fix NMI hardware failure?
1. Run BSOD troubleshooter
- First, click on the Search icon on the Taskbar and enter control panel in the text box. Click the app to open it.
- Then in the next window, search for troubleshooting in the Search box and click on the Troubleshooting app.
- Now tap the View all link at the top-left corner in the Troubleshooting window.
- Right click on Blue Screen and then click on Run as administrator for the drop-down options.
- At this time, click on the Advanced option.
- Then tick the Apply repairs automatically checkbox and click Next.
- After that, the troubleshooter will run and scan for problems with available blue screen errors.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to fix the issues when the process is complete.
2. Scan for malware/virus
- First, press the Windows + I keys to launch Settings and click Update & security.
- Then under Update & Security click on Windows Security followed by Virus & threat protection.
- On the next screen, click on Scan options.
- Select Custom scan option and click on Scan Now.
- On the next screen, select the folder you want to scan for malware and click Select Folder.
- Finally, let the process run. The malware will be identified. Follow the instructions to clean the malware.
3. Run the SFC scan
- Begin by pressing the Windows key, enter cmd in the text entry, and select Run as administrator.
- Now enter the following code and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- You must wait until the process is complete, as it may take a while.
- The solution will automatically be applied when found.
- Now, close the Command Prompt and restart your PC.
4. Update Windows drivers
- Begin by opening Settings by pressing Windows and I keys together and click on Update & Recovery.
- Then check for updates under Windows Updates.
- If one is available, click on Check Updates and follow the instructions to update it.
- Finally, restart the PC to complete the process.
5. Uninstall problematic app
- First, click on the Search icon on the Taskbar and enter control panel in the text box. Click the app to open it.
- Then click on Programs.
- Afterward, select Programs and Features on the next window.
- Then right-click on the problematic app and click on Uninstall to remove the app.
- Restart your computer.
6. Run DSIM in the standard way
- First press the Windows key, enter cmd in the text box and select Run as administrator.
- Now enter the following command in the Command Prompt and press Enter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Now, wait until the scan is fully done.
- Finally, restart your PC.
7. Run DSIM with the installation media
- Insert your Windows 10 installation media.
- Secondly, press the Windows key, enter cmd in the text box and select Run as administrator.
- Then enter the following commands in the Command Prompt and press Enter after entering each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Afterward, enter the following command and press Enter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /source:WIM:X:SourcesInstall.wim:1 /LimitAccess
- Of course, ensure you substitute the X value with the letter of the drive installed on your Windows 10 computer.
- When the process is complete, restart your computer.
8. Use bcdedit command in command prompt
- Firstly, press the Windows key, enter cmd in the text box and select Run as administrator.
- As soon as the Command Prompt launches, enter the command below and then press Enter:
bcdedit /set x2apicpolicy disable
- Close the Command Prompt and then restart your PC.
9. Use bcdedit on Command Prompt through Automatic Repair
- First, restart your computer while holding the Shift key to access the Advanced Startup.
- Secondly, choose Troubleshoot, then click Advanced options and click Command Prompt.
- When Command Prompt launches, enter the command below and hit Enter:
bcdedit /set x2apicpolicy disable
- When the process is complete, restart the computer.
10. Check for faulty hardware
You should check some of your hardware components to see if they are not faulty. This can significantly resolve the NMI hardware failure on your Windows 10 computer.
First, check the power supply. Make sure the power supply is providing adequate power to all components. Make sure all cables connecting the components are firmly connected. If the power supply is not providing enough power, it can cause the NMI hardware failure.
Secondly, test all hardware components. Check the RAM, HDD, CPU, and other hardware components to ensure they all function properly. If any of the components fail, it may cause the NMI hardware failure.
Finally, check the computer’s BIOS settings. The BIOS or Basic Input Output System is a set of instructions stored on the computer’s hardware, allowing it to boot up and run properly. If the system’s BIOS is not configured properly, it can lead to an NMI hardware failure. You should do a good configuration of the BIOS settings.
However, it is important to inform you that you cannot do this hardware check independently. Please see a professional to avoid further damaging your computer or even risk electrocution.
11. Check for failing hardware
- First, press the Windows and X keys together to open the Quick Link menu.
- Expand the hardware folders one after the other then right-click on the drive and click on Properties.
- Click on the General tab under properties and check Device status. You will be notified if it’s working properly. Or else, click on the Update button and follow the instruction prompts.
- When the process is complete, restart your computer.
Overall, NMI hardware failure can be a real headache for Windows 10 users, as it can cause several problems, ranging from blue screen errors to system crashes. However, with the proper troubleshooting and diagnosis, fixing it is possible in a relatively short time.
It is important that the instructions in this guide are followed carefully and that all necessary drivers and updates are installed. NMI hardware failure can be resolved with the proper steps, and Windows 10 can be returned to its normal state.