Learn how to fix the Windows Error: DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER error. Our Windows Support team is here to help you with your questions and concerns.

How to Fix the Windows Error: DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER

According to our Experts, the DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER error in Windows occurs when a driver overruns a stack-based buffer. This error usually leads to system crashes.

Today, we are going to take a look at the main causes of this error and how to fix them.

Outdated or Incompatible Drivers

According to our Experts, faulty or incompatible device drivers that write data outside their defined memory address are a common cause of this error.

Fixes:

• Use tools like WinDbg or BlueScreenView to identify the driver causing the error. We can download the latest version from the manufacturer’s website or use Windows Update or Device Manager to apply the update.
• If the error occurred after a driver update, use Device Manager to revert to the previous version.
• If updating or rolling back doesn’t work, uninstall and reinstall the driver from Device Manager.

Corrupted System Files

Additionally, corrupted system files can trigger the DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER error.

Fixes:

• First, make sure we have the latest Windows updates and patches that may fix driver-related bugs.
• Use the SFC tool to repair any corrupted or missing system files.
• Also, run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool to further repair system image corruption.

Hardware Issues

Incompatible hardware or faulty memory modules can sometimes cause this error.

Fixes:

• If we recently installed new hardware, remove or replace it and see if the error persists.
• Also, use the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool to check for memory errors that may be causing the BSOD.

Disable Fast Startup

Fast Startup is a Windows feature that lets the system resume from a hibernation state quickly. However, it can sometimes cause driver malfunctions, leading to errors like DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER.

Fix:

1. First, press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Then, type `powercfg.cpl` and click Enter to open the Power Options window.
3. Now, click “Choose what the power buttons do”.
4. Next, click “Change settings that are currently unavailable.”
5. After that, uncheck the box next to “Turn on fast startup (recommended).”
6. Finally, click “Save changes.”

Scan for Malware

Viruses or malware can corrupt drivers, causing errors like DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER.

Fix: Run a security scan with Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus to detect and remove any malware that might be causing the issue:

1. First, open Windows Defender by searching for it in the Start menu.
2. Then, click “Virus & threat protection.”
3. Next, click “Scan options” and choose “Full scan.”
4. Now, wait for the scan to complete and follow any prompts to remove detected malware.

Check for Disk Errors

Bad sectors or errors on the hard drive can cause system instability, leading to errors like DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER.

Fix:

1. First, open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Then, type `chkdsk /f /r` and press Enter.
3. Now, follow the prompts to run the scan and repair any errors.

Use Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)

WinRE is a built-in recovery environment in Windows that lets us perform various troubleshooting tasks.

Fix:

1. Restart the computer.
2. When the computer restarts, press the F8 key repeatedly until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears.
3. Then, use the arrow keys to select “Repair your computer” and press Enter.
4. Next, follow the prompts to perform troubleshooting tasks like Startup Repair or System Restore.

Reset Windows

If all other fixes fail, resetting Windows is a last resort that will delete all files from the system partition.

Fix:

1. First, open Settings by searching for it in the Start menu.
2. Then, go to “Update & Security” > “Recovery.”
3. Now, Click “Get started” under “Reset this PC.”
4. Then, follow the prompts to reset the Windows installation. This will delete all files and settings, so make sure to back up important data before proceeding.

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Conclusion

In brief, our Support Experts demonstrated how to fix the Windows Error: DRIVER_OVERRAN_STACK_BUFFER error. This will have our Windows system running smoothly and efficiently.