Fix: 0x0000001C: PFN_REFERENCE_COUNT Blue Screen error in Windows

The 0x0000001C: PFN_REFERENCE_COUNT blue screen occurs in Windows when your network drivers are incompatible or outdated. This problem can also happen if some of your system files are corrupted, if your Windows OS is not up to date, or if your system is infected by malware. Hardware issues such as power surges, overheating, or faulty storage devices can also cause this error. When it appears, you might notice your screen flickering and your system restarting repeatedly.

Here are some detailed reasons why this error can occur:

• Incompatible Network Drivers: This error often happens when network drivers are outdated, faulty, or not compatible with your version of Windows. When that occurs, your system can restart repeatedly, leading to a blue screen of death. Try updating or rolling back your drivers to see if this fixes the issue.
• Incompatible BIOS Version: The BIOS can become corrupt due to a failed update or a power interruption during an update. If your BIOS is outdated or doesn’t support your CPU, your computer might not boot properly, causing a blue screen error. Updating your BIOS to a compatible version may resolve the issue.
• Malware Attacks: Viruses and malware can harm your system’s health by corrupting system files, deleting important data, or causing your system to malfunction. If this happens, unexpected errors like the blue screen may appear. Run a full system scan, remove any threats found, and restore your data to see if the problem is fixed.
• Outdated Windows: Using an outdated or unsupported version of Windows makes your computer more vulnerable to security risks and bugs. You also miss out on important updates from Microsoft. Regularly check for and install Windows updates to reduce the risk of errors such as this blue screen issue.
• Corrupted System Files: Damaged or missing system files can also trigger this error. These files may become corrupted due to malware, bugs, or improper installation. Run the System File Checker (SFC) tool to scan and repair your system files to help resolve the error.
• Hardware Issues: Problems with your hardware—such as overheating, incompatible parts, failing memory, or power issues—can also lead to recurring blue screen errors. If you suspect hardware is the cause, consult an expert and replace any faulty components as needed.

1. Roll Back and Update Network Drivers

Since the 0x0000001C error is often related to network drivers, your first step should be to roll back or update them to ensure they are working correctly.

1. Press the Start Menu and search for Device Manager.
2. Expand Network Adapters in Device Manager, then right-click on your Wireless Adapter.
3. Click on Properties. Then, from the menu bar, choose the Driver tab.
4. Check if the Roll Back Driver option is available. If it’s greyed out, it means your driver hasn’t been updated recently.

   

5. If you can’t roll back, return to Network Adapters in Device Manager and right-click your Wireless Adapter again.
6. Select Update Driver and then choose Search Automatically for Drivers.

   

7. Click Search for Updated Drivers on Windows Update. If an update is available, install it and then check if the error is resolved.

2. Scan System for Malware

Malware can harm your system files and cause data loss or unexpected errors. Scanning for threats can help fix this.

1. Click the arrow icon on the right side of the Taskbar.
2. Right-click View Security Dashboard and select Virus & Threat Protection.

   

3. Press Quick Scan, which will check for potential threats. If anything is found, remove the threat and restart your computer.

   

3. Check for Windows Updates

Outdated Windows can impact your PC’s performance and security, leading to errors like this one. Make sure your system is up to date.

1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
2. Click on Windows Update from the left panel.
3. If an update is available, download and install it.

   

4. Run SFC Scanning

Corrupted or missing system files can also cause this error. Run the System File Checker tool to scan and repair your files.

1. Open the Start Menu and search for CMD.
2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as Administrator.
3. Type the following command:

SFC /Scannow

4. Press Enter to begin the scan and wait for it to complete.

   

5. Once finished, type exit and press Enter. Restart your system and check if the error still appears.

5. Perform a Windows Restore

If the methods above haven’t worked, you can try restoring Windows to an earlier point in time before the error started happening.

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type rstrui and press Enter to open the System Restore utility.