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DWM Has Crashed on Windows 11: How to Fix it
A loose GPU connection is usually the culprit
6 min. read
Updated onOctober 25, 2024
updated onOctober 25, 2024
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To fix various driver issues on your PC, you will need a dedicated tool to find the freshest and the original drivers. You can use PC HelpSoft Driver Updater to do it in 3 easy steps:
Sometimes you might getYour session was logged off because DWM crashedordwm.exe stopped working.This problem can interfere with your everyday activities, so it’s important to fix it, and this guide is here to help you.
What is DWM error?
DWM error such as this one occurs if your GPU isn’t properly connected or configured or if there’s another issue with it.
What can I do if DWM has crashed on Windows 11?
Before trying anything else, check if your GPU is properly connected. If the power cable is loose or the GPU is hanging, tightly connect it and check if the issue is gone. Updating BIOS can also help.
1. Update graphics card driver
An outdated graphics driver can cause conflicts that lead to DWM crashes. Updating the drivers should fix the issue.
2. Adjust GPU settings in BIOS
Keep in mind that the steps might be different depending on your motherboard model.
3. Disable Hardware accelerated GPU scheduling
4. Reinstall Xbox app
5. Adjust the system for the best performance
TheAdjust for best performanceoption will make a set of changes to your OS for it to run smoother. If you don’t like them, you can go back by choosingAdjust for best appearance.
6. Delete the mdi264.dll
CloseCommand Promptand restart your computer after doing the above actions.
7. Run the SFC scan
Wait for the process to finish (which may take some time) before restarting your computer.
You can also choose to use aspecialized repair toolthat will do all these steps automatically. These tools can scan your PC in-depth and find any impediment that slows down its performance. After that, they will replace each malfunctioning element with the latest update from its database.
8. Run DISM
Sit down and wait for the procedure to finish. Please be aware that it may take up to ten minutes. After that, restart your computer to confirm that the changes have taken effect.
9. Disable Hardware acceleration
You must close the Registry Editor and restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
10. Disable problematic services
Before closing theServiceswindow, double-check that all of the services listed in Step 2 –Skype Updater,Google Update (update), andGoogle Update (gupdatem) have been turned off.
What does dwm.exe do?
Desktop Window Manager (dwm.exe) is a critical system process that aids explicitly in creating visual effects like transparent windows and taskbar thumbnails that you’ll see when using Windows.The design of the user interface is logged into Windows memory when you start a new program, allowing the design to be developed.
Windows then manipulates the window designs to guarantee their visual effects are applied.
Is it necessary to have DWM?
Yes, the DWM.exe file is an essential Windows core system file and a component of Microsoft Windows. It is mainly responsible for elements including Windows Aero and other visual effects and personalization features like Windows Flip and Flip 3D.
Dwn.exe is an essential Windows 11 process, and many issues with it can occur, but we hope that you managed to fix DWM crash with a black screen and other issues.
To better understand what dwm.exe does, see ourarticle on why you can’t kill DWM in Windows 11 any longer.
We recommend you review ourarticle on dwm.exe issues in Windows 10for additional information and potential solutions, as some of the approaches discussed here are also applicable in the new OS.
We also have a guide onDesktop Window Manager high memory usage, so don’t miss it.
If you have any further questions, please let us know in the comments section below, as well as which solution you found most compelling.
More about the topics:Desktop Windows Manager,error,Windows 11
Vladimir Popescu
Being an artist his entire life while also playing handball at a professional level, Vladimir has also developed a passion for all things computer-related.
With an innate fascination for research and analysis, and realizing many other people share his passion for this subject, he delved into writing Windows-related articles, so other people can also benefit from the acquired information.
When not writing kick-ass articles, Vladimir likes to spend his time doing Crossfit and creating art.
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