How to Fix 0x000000EA Blue Screen Error
When the 0x000000EA blue screen error occurs, the system typically freezes or crashes during graphics-intensive tasks like gaming or video playback, often accompanied by a sudden reboot or a persistent blue screen The error code 0x000000EA, labeled as THREAD_STUCK_IN_DEVICE_DRIVER, signifies that a thread within a device driver is endlessly spinning, waiting for the hardware to become idle.
This issue is most commonly caused by a faulty or outdated video card driver, though it can also result from hardware failures, such as a malfunctioning graphics card. In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.
1. Disable Hardware Acceleration in Apps
While hardware acceleration offloads rendering tasks to the GPU, it does not directly cause the 0x000000EA BSOD. However, in rare cases, certain applications may crash or freeze due to driver conflicts when hardware acceleration is enabled. Disabling it might help reduce instability in specific apps like browsers or media players, but it’s not a system-level fix for this blue screen error.
If your hardware can’t handle this, it may cause the 0x000000EA error. Try disabling hardware acceleration to see if this resolves the issue. Check our article here to learn how to do it.
2. Remove Conflicting Graphics Card Driver
One of the most common causes of BSOD errors—and particularly the 0x000000EA error—is a faulty, outdated, or corrupted graphics driver. Replacing it with the default driver often solves the problem. To do this, it’s best to fully uninstall the current graphics card driver first. The tool “Display Driver Uninstaller” (DDU) can help make sure no leftover driver files remain.
- Download and install Display Driver Uninstaller.
Download DDU - After installing Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU), restart your computer in safe mode.
- Open the Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) application.
- Select the first option, “Clean and restart.” This will remove the current driver and restart your computer.
“Clean and restart” in DDU - After your system restarts, boot into normal mode, press Windows + R, type “devmgmt.msc” and press Enter to open Device Manager.
- The default driver should be automatically installed. If you do not see the driver, right-click any empty space and select Scan for hardware changes to reinstall the default graphics driver.
Update Driver in Device Manager
You should also make sure to update any drivers that need updates. For a step-by-step guide, refer to our section on Update Device Drivers.
In rare cases, outdated onboard audio drivers—such as Realtek or VIA—can conflict with GPU-based audio (e.g., HDMI or DisplayPort sound output). If you experience audio-related instability or crashes, update both your onboard and GPU audio drivers. Alternatively, you can disable unused audio devices in Device Manager to rule out any conflicts.
Once you’ve updated your drivers, check to see if the blue screen error still appears.
3. Check the Graphics Card Physically
Sometimes, driver or software problems are linked to hardware issues. Your graphics card might have an issue like overheating or physical damage.
To test if the problem lies with your graphics card, try using it in another computer, if possible. If the error follows the card, it may need to be replaced. If it has a blower-style fan, make sure it’s not clogged with dust. Cleaning the computer and especially the graphics card can also help.
After cleaning and checking your hardware, see if the 0x000000EA Blue Screen Error is resolved.
4. Remove Overclocking of CPU/GPU
Overclocking CPUs and GPUs is popular in the tech community, but pushing your hardware too far may cause blue screen errors such as 0x000000EA. If you are overclocking your CPU or GPU and start to see this error, try returning your hardware to its original (base) speed settings to see if that solves the problem.
Warning: Changing overclocking settings can be risky. If you’re not careful, you could damage your system. Please proceed with caution and at your own risk.
5. Update the System BIOS
The BIOS is responsible for starting your computer and helping Windows communicate with your hardware. If your BIOS is out of date, it may cause issues such as the 0x000000EA error. Updating your BIOS can fix compatibility problems.
Warning: Updating the BIOS can be risky. If something goes wrong, you may damage your computer. Only proceed if you feel comfortable, and follow instructions carefully.
For step-by-step guides on updating your BIOS by manufacturer, see:
Hopefully, after trying these solutions, your 0x000000EA Blue Screen Error will be resolved and your system will work normally again.
