The Blue Screen of Death

The blue screen of death is also known as the stop error, BSod, blue screen of doom or simply the blue screen. This screen is seen when there is an error in the operating system of the computer and is most common with Microsoft Windows operating systems. It is used to tell the user that something is seriously wrong with the operating system.

The blue screen is shown as a result of an internal critical system error, which causes the system to automatically shut down. Shutting down is the operating systems’ way of preventing any loss of data or irreversible damage to the computer. When it appears, a series of information, usually error codes, is usually listed that provides the operating system with a command to check the data. These codes serve as instructions to tell the operating system that there is a problem and start a check of the computer.

Any data is then dumped into a file to preserve it. Depending on the operating system and the severity of the error, data can be lost. Usually a trained computer technician will be able to successfully retrieve data from the file.

The blue screen of death was given this name because ultimately it could result in the death, or loss of, data or the entire computer system. Sometimes the blue screen error occurs for reasons beyond the users’ control. Poorly written device drivers, hardware malfunctions and bugs in the operating system are common reasons for the onset of the blue screen error. These issues are generally configured at the time the computer is built, so the average computer user will probably not be able to detect the issue, let alone repair it. Often, the assistance of a trained computer technician will be required if the error is severe.

There are ways to avoid being a victim of the blue screen. Ensuring that power supplies are adequate and preventing the computer from overheating from extensive use are simple ways to avoid loss of data. Following the instructions for hardware installation so that the hardware will run well within its limits should also prevent many occurrences of the fatal blue screen error.
It’s important to remember that most computer errors are trying to communicate something to the user. Do not ignore errors by clicking out of them or rebooting when they are displayed.

There are times that the blue screen error will require a long-term fix from a trained technician. If this error is ignored, it can ultimately result in the crash of your computer for good and the subsequent loss of all data.