Definitive solution to the CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION (0x000000F4) error in Windows

The error CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION in Windows, also known as the stop code 0x000000F4, is one of those dreaded messages that can suddenly appear as a blue screen of death (BSOD) and leave you with a puzzled face. If you've seen this blue screen of death, you're probably wondering what caused it, if your files are safe, and how you can resolve the problem to get back to normal as quickly as possible. This article is designed specifically to clear up all those doubts, integrating technical information, practical experience, and advice from users and experts so you know step by step what to do and why this error occurs.

Let's talk about all possible causes of this error, its variants, how to correctly identify them, what actions you can take on your own, and what details you should consider if you want a permanent solution. We'll also explain the risks to your data and how to effectively recover them before implementing the necessary changes. The idea is that, if you continue reading, you'll have a complete overview and can act as intelligently and safely as possible to address this problem.

What is the CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION error and why does it appear?

The error CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION corresponds to a system error check whose hexadecimal value is 0x000000F4. This message appears when A process or thread essential to the operation of Windows stops unexpectedlyThe operating system, upon detecting that it cannot continue operating safely, displays a blue screen and restarts the computer to prevent further damage (such as file corruption or data loss).

In most cases, this error can be linked to hardware failures, faulty drivers, corrupted system files, infections by malware or problems with recently installed software. There are variants of the error associated with different processes — for example, it could be due to a process (parameter 0x3) or a thread (parameter 0x6) that has exited unexpectedly. The blue screen often displays classic messages such as:

• Windows shuts down unexpectedly due to a problem with CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION.
• : (CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION caused an error. The computer must be restarted.
• 0x0A: IRQL_NOT_LESS_EQUAL — CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION
• STOP 0x01E: KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HELD — CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION

The important thing is that there is always an underlying cause: : No blue screen just happens.

Most common causes of error 0x000000F4 in Windows

This error can have multiple origins. The most common, according to technical experience and official documentation, are:

• Damaged, corrupted, or outdated device drivers. This is the most common cause, especially after installing new hardware or software that manages devices.
• Physical problems in the hardware such as damage to the hard drive or RAM. Bad sectors on a disk or faulty RAM modules can cause this critical failure.
• Corrupted or missing system files, usually due to unexpected power outages, malware, or disk errors.
• software conflicts, especially after recent Windows updates, drivers, or installation of incompatible applications.
• Outdated firmware in system components such as the motherboard, SSD/HDD, controllers, etc.
• Virus or malware infection that alter critical drivers or operating system files.
• Problems in the configuration of the BIOS, such as poorly tuned memory options (cache, monitoring).

Pinpointing the specific source of your error often requires a bit of research, testing, and sometimes trial and error. For more information on how to detect specific errors related to Windows crashes, you can check out our guide to troubleshooting Windows errors. Boot en

What consequences can it have and when does it occur?

El CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION It can appear in several situations: when starting Windows, during the work session, when installing/updating drivers or when connecting new hardware. In some cases, it repeats itself at every boot, making normal access to the system impossible and can cause the unsaved data loss. Additionally, some errors may be triggered by cross-session processes, especially on systems Windows 7 or 8, and also in server environments such as Windows Server 2008 R2.

If the error is caused by some hardware damage (especially on the hard drive), the risk to your files is high, so the smartest thing to do is try to back up important data firstTo do this, you can check out how to recover files with free tools in our dedicated section.

How to identify the error: diagnostic keys

To better understand the root of the problem, Windows often associates several parameters with the error. These can be seen on the blue screen or in the memory dump (minidump). For example:

Parameter	Meaning
1	Terminated object type: 0x3 (Process), 0x6 (Thread)
2	Concrete object that ended
3	Process image file name
4	ASCII string with explanatory message

These details can be useful if you have advanced knowledge and want to analyze the error with tools like !analyze in the Windows debugging environment, but for most users, the important thing is to follow a logical elimination process and apply proven solutions. To better understand how to analyze memory dumps, it may be helpful to visit the guide to troubleshoot boot file errors at

Previous: Protect your data from possible loss

Before starting with the solutions, it is highly recommended save your filesA recurring blue screen or hardware failure often results in major damage and data loss. If you can boot your system, back up your documents, photos, and critical data. If you can't boot Windows, use rescue tools like MiniTool Partition Wizard or boot from a LiveCD (e.g., Hiren's BootCD) to access your disks and save files to an external drive.

Solutions for the CRITICAL_OBJECT_TERMINATION error: complete and effective methods

We show you The most reliable steps used by technicians and advanced users to resolve error 0x000000F4. Many of these solutions can be applied yourself, although if you suspect hardware damage, it's best to consult a professional to prevent further damage.

1. Review and update drivers

Outdated or faulty drivers are responsible for most blue screens. Check if you've recently installed hardware or software. If so, try uninstalling it or updating the drivers from the manufacturer's official website:

• Go to Device administrator (Win + X and choose “Device Manager”).
• Right-click on the problematic device (usually shown with a yellow icon) and select “Update Driver.”
• Select “Automatically search for updated driver software.”
• Repeat the process for important drivers such as your graphics card, hard drive, chipset, and network.

You can also download the drivers directly from AMD's pages, NVIDIA, Intel, Realtek, etc. Avoid third-party automated programs except those officially recommended.To check if an outdated driver can cause this error, see our guide on []

2. Checking hard drive and RAM

A common cause is bad sectors on the hard drive or modules of Damaged RAM. Do the following:

• Run the disk error checker: opens a window commands as administrator and type chkdsk / f / rThe system will attempt to repair bad sectors and recover data.
• To check the RAM, use the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool (Find it in the start menu.) You can also use more advanced tools like MemTest86.
• If the disk shows bad sectors or the memory is experiencing errors, urgently perform a backup and replace the defective component.

If you are unable to boot the system, a LiveCD boot (Hiren's BootCD) allows you to perform these checks from outside the main system.

3. Analyze and repair system files

Corruption of essential Windows files is another common cause. Use the built-in commands:

• Open a window terminal as administrator (search for “cmd”, right click “Run as administrator”).
• Introduce sfc / scannow and wait for the file checking and repair to finish.
• Next, run the DISM commands to repair the Windows image:
  • DISM.exe / Online / Cleanup-image / Scanhealth
  • DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Checkhealth
  • DISM.exe / Online / Cleanup-image / RestoreHealth

These operations help restore corrupted files that may have triggered the critical error. For more information on how to troubleshoot errors in the system recovery, check out our guide to troubleshooting BCD errors at []

4. Uninstall recent updates and problematic software

Sometimes the error occurs right after installing a Windows update or an incompatible program:

• Go to your update history (Settings > Update & security > View update history) and try uninstalling the most recent updates.
• Uninstall any matching applications or drivers. There with the appearance of the error.
• Check the hardware and software compatibility with your version of Windows.

5. Scan for malware or viruses

Some infections can modify critical system files and cause blue screens. Use your usual antivirus to perform a full system scan and consider running additional tools like Malwarebytes. For an in-depth review, you can check out our guide on

6. Check the physical hardware: connections and status

A loose or faulty connection can trigger critical errors. Do the following:

• Turn off the computer and open the tower or case if you have sufficient knowledge.
• Check that all hard drive and memory cables are properly connected and there is no excessive dirt or dust.
• If you've recently added hardware (new hard drive, graphics cards, etc.), try removing it to see if the error goes away.
• Replace suspect cables or try other SATA/USB ports if applicable.

7. Update your devices' firmware and BIOS

Outdated firmware, whether on the motherboard or on SSDs/HDDs or cards, may be incompatible with the latest versions of Windows and cause the error. Visit the manufacturer's website and check for BIOS/UEFI and firmware updates for your devices. You can also refer to the component update guide.

8. Use system restore

If the error started after a recent change and none of the above options have worked, restores the system to a previous point where everything was working fineYou can do this from Windows Recovery, or if you can't even boot, from the recovery options on your Windows installation media.

9. Reset Windows as a last resort

If all of the above fails, you can opt for reset windows (Keep personal files or keep nothing, as you prefer). It's a drastic but effective option, especially when system corruption is deep or there are unresolvable conflicts.