The ATTEMPTED_WRITE_TO_READONLY_MEMORY error is a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) that occurs when Windows attempts to write data to a section of memory that is marked as read-only.
When this error appears, Windows crashes and displays a message like:
“Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart.”
Stop Code: ATTEMPTED_WRITE_TO_READONLY_MEMORY
This problem usually indicates a driver conflict, corrupted system file, or faulty hardware component.
The issue commonly occurs on systems running:
- Windows 10
- Windows 11
In this guide, you will learn what causes the ATTEMPTED_WRITE_TO_READONLY_MEMORY error and how to fix it step by step.
What Causes ATTEMPTED_WRITE_TO_READONLY_MEMORY?
This error occurs when Windows tries to modify memory that should not be altered.
Common causes include:
- Corrupted or outdated device drivers
- Faulty RAM modules
- Corrupted Windows system files
- Driver conflicts after Windows updates
- Hardware compatibility issues
Because this error is related to memory access violations, troubleshooting usually focuses on drivers and memory hardware.
Method 1: Restart Your Computer
Temporary system glitches may trigger the blue screen.
Restart your PC and check if the error appears again.
If the crash continues, proceed with the solutions below.
Method 2: Update Device Drivers
Outdated drivers are one of the most common causes of this error.
Steps:
- Right-click Start Menu
- Select Device Manager
- Expand device categories
- Right-click a device
- Click Update driver
Important drivers to update include:
- Graphics drivers
- Network drivers
- Storage drivers
Updating drivers can resolve memory access conflicts.
Method 3: Run System File Checker
Corrupted Windows system files can cause memory access violations.
Use the built-in repair tool:
- System File Checker
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Run:
sfc /scannow
This scan detects and repairs corrupted Windows system files.
Method 4: Repair Windows Image Using DISM
If SFC cannot repair all files, use the Windows image repair tool:
- Deployment Image Servicing and Management
Run the command:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
This tool repairs deeper Windows system corruption.
Method 5: Test RAM for Memory Errors
Faulty RAM can cause memory write violations.
Use the built-in memory testing tool:
- Windows Memory Diagnostic
Steps:
- Press Windows + R
- Type:
mdsched.exe
- Select Restart now and check for problems
Windows will restart and scan your memory for errors.
Method 6: Check Disk for Errors
Disk corruption can sometimes cause system crashes.
Run the following command:
chkdsk /f /r
This tool scans the drive and repairs file system errors.
Method 7: Install the Latest Windows Updates
Windows updates often include fixes for driver compatibility and system stability.
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Click Windows Update
- Install available updates
Keeping your system updated helps prevent BSOD errors.
Related Windows Error Fix Guides
You may also encounter other Windows crash problems. These guides may help:
• How to Fix CLOCK_WATCHDOG_TIMEOUT
• How to Fix KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED
• How to Fix MEMORY_MANAGEMENT Blue Screen
These are among the most common crash errors in Microsoft Windows systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ATTEMPTED_WRITE_TO_READONLY_MEMORY mean?
This error means a driver or system process attempted to write data to protected memory.
Can faulty drivers cause this error?
Yes. Corrupted or incompatible drivers are one of the most common causes.
Is this error related to RAM?
Yes. Faulty RAM modules can cause memory access violations that trigger this blue screen.
Final Thoughts
The ATTEMPTED_WRITE_TO_READONLY_MEMORY blue screen usually occurs because of driver conflicts, corrupted system files, or faulty RAM.
Most users can fix the problem by:
- Updating device drivers
- Repairing system files using SFC
- Repairing Windows image using DISM
- Testing RAM with Windows Memory Diagnostic
- Checking disk errors
- Installing Windows updates
After applying these fixes, your computer should run normally without unexpected crashes.