Windows BSOD Error 0x000000FC — ATTEMPTED_EXECUTE_OF_NOEXECUTE_MEMORY Fix

What Does This Error Mean?

The 0x000000FC blue screen means something tried to run code from a part of memory that is marked as read-only — not executable. This is a security feature in Windows called Data Execution Prevention (DEP). It is usually triggered by a buggy driver, malware, or incompatible software.

Affected Models

Windows 10
Windows 11
Windows 8.1
Windows Server

Common Causes

A device driver tried to execute code from protected memory — a sign of a buggy or corrupted driver
Malware attempted to run code in a protected memory region (DEP caught it)
An older piece of software is incompatible with modern Windows memory protection
Faulty RAM is causing memory addresses to be misread
Your antivirus software is interfering with a driver's memory operations

How to Fix It

Check the blue screen for a driver filename (ending in .sys). Search for it online to identify the device. Then visit that manufacturer's website and download the latest driver.

This error is most commonly caused by a specific driver making an illegal memory access. Updating it is the most effective first step.
Run a full malware scan using Windows Defender or Malwarebytes. Boot into Safe Mode first for a more thorough scan that catches hidden threats.

DEP blocking a memory execution attempt is exactly what it is designed to do against malware. A blue screen here may have actually protected you from an infection.
Run the System File Checker to repair any corrupted Windows files. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type: sfc /scannow

Corrupted system files can cause drivers to behave incorrectly, leading to illegal memory access attempts.
Test your RAM with Windows Memory Diagnostic. Search for it in the Start menu and choose 'Restart now and check for problems.'

Faulty RAM can cause memory addresses to be read incorrectly, making legitimate code look like it is trying to run from a protected region.
Uninstall any software that was installed recently, especially system utilities, tweaking tools, or programs that modify Windows behavior.

Some system optimizer or game enhancement tools hook into Windows at a low level and can trigger this error. Try removing them one at a time.

When to Call a Professional

If you suspect malware caused this crash, have a technician perform a thorough system cleaning. Some advanced malware hides from standard scanners and requires specialized removal tools. Do not ignore this possibility — DEP catching a memory execution attempt can indicate a security threat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Data Execution Prevention (DEP)?

DEP is a security feature built into Windows and modern processors. It marks certain areas of memory as 'no execute,' meaning nothing is allowed to run code from those regions. If something tries to execute code from a protected area — whether it is a bug or malware — Windows stops it and issues a blue screen to prevent damage.

Should I disable DEP to stop the crashes?

No. Disabling DEP removes an important security protection. The right approach is to find and fix the driver or software causing the illegal memory access. Disabling DEP is not a solution — it just hides the problem while leaving your system vulnerable.

Could this error mean my PC was hacked?

It is possible but not guaranteed. DEP catching an execution attempt in protected memory is consistent with a malware attack. However, buggy drivers cause this more often than malware does. Run a full malware scan to rule out a security threat, then focus on driver updates if the scan comes back clean.