Thread Stuck in Device Driver after Install Windows 11 (solved)

The latest Windows 11 KB5035853 update, released in March 2024, was anticipated to bring security enhancements, bug fixes, and the exciting Moment 5 feature. However, numerous users have encountered a slew of problems after installing this update, ranging from the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with the “Thread Stuck in Device Driver” error to malfunctioning taskbars and File Explorer issues.

Uninstall and Pause the Update

If you’re one of the users experiencing these issues, the first step is to uninstall the problematic KB5035853 update. Additionally, consider pausing Windows updates for a week or two until Microsoft releases a patch to address these issues comprehensively.

While waiting for an official fix, here are some additional troubleshooting steps you can take to address the Thread Stuck in Device Driver BSOD error and taskbar malfunction.

Outdated or incompatible device drivers can often be the root cause of BSOD errors. Ensure all your device drivers, especially graphics and chipset drivers, are up to date. You can update GPU driver by visiting the manufacturer’s website or using third-party driver update software.

Running an SFC scan can help detect and repair corrupted system files that may be causing the BSOD error. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type “sfc /scannow” followed by Enter. Allow the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions.

Disk errors can also contribute to system instability. Use the built-in Disk Check utility to scan and repair any disk errors. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type “chkdsk /f” followed by Enter. You may need to schedule the scan to run at the next system reboot.

If your taskbar or File Explorer is not functioning correctly, resetting Windows Explorer can often resolve these issues. Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc, locate “Windows Explorer” in the Processes tab, right-click it, and select “Restart.”

Sometimes, user profile corruption can lead to taskbar and File Explorer issues. Create a new user account and see if the problems persist. If they don’t, consider transferring your files and settings to the new account.

While uninstalling the update and pausing updates temporarily can provide immediate relief, additional troubleshooting steps such as updating device drivers and performing system checks may be necessary to address these issues permanently.