
Running into the “nvlddmkm error” on your Windows can be frustrating when you are in the midst of editing document or playing a game. This happens to many people, especially those with devices powered by NVIDIA graphic cards.
This complete guide will explore the error, its causes and troubleshooting methods. Let us begin.
What is ‘nvlddmkm Error’ in Windows?
The ‘nvlddmkm’ error is a problem on Windows computers with NVIDIA graphics cards. It shows up as a blue screen with an error message about a file called ‘nvlddmkm.sys.’
When this error happens, the computer crashes and needs to restart. It usually occurs when you’re running graphics intensive applications like games or media players.

What is the Cause of ‘nvlddmkm Error’ in Windows?
Here are the 5 causes of the Windows Error.
- Outdated Graphics Drivers: Outdated drivers can often be incompatible with the latest Windows updates or other system components, which can trigger this error.
- Corrupted Driver Files: Sometimes, the files associated with the NVIDIA drivers may become corrupted, causing the nvlddmkm.sys NVIDIA Corporation VIDEO_TDR_ERROR.
- Incorrect System Configuration: Incorrect settings or configurations in the Windows operating system might cause conflicts with the NVIDIA graphics drivers, leading to this error.
- Overheating GPU: Overheating the graphics processing unit (GPU) can cause the system to become unstable, triggering the nvlddmkm.sys NVIDIA Corporation VIDEO_TDR_ERROR.
- Hardware Conflicts: Conflicts between the graphics card and other hardware components within the system can also result in this error message.
How to Fix ‘nvlddmkm Error’ in Windows?
There are multiple ways to fix the error. Follow the step-by-step process mentioned below.
1. Check for Windows Updates
- Always ensure your system is up to date, as Microsoft releases patches that can solve compatibility issues and bugs.
- To check for updates, Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates.

2. Disable Fast Startup
- Disable Fast Startup by following these steps:
- Press Win + R, and type control /name Microsoft.PowerOptions /page pageGlobalSettings and press Enter.

- Click on ‘Change settings that are currently available’.

- Uncheck ‘Turn on fast startup (recommended)’ and click Save changes.

3. Modify the Registry
- Press Windows, type cmd, then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
- Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
- reg add “HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\GraphicsDrivers” /v TdrDelay /t REG_DWORD /d 60 /f
- reg add “HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\GraphicsDrivers” /v TdrDdiDelay /t REG_DWORD /d 60 /f
4. Run Disk and Memory Tests
For Disk Check:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type chkdsk /f c: and press Enter, then type Y and reboot your PC.

For Memory Test:
- Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe and click OK.

- Click on ‘Restart now and check for problems’.

5. Reinstall NVIDIA Graphics Driver
- Press Win + R, type devmgmt.msc, and click OK.
- Locate and double-click on Display Adapters, right-click on your GPU, and choose Uninstall device.

- Check the box next to ‘Delete the driver software for this device‘, click Uninstall, and then OK.

- Download the latest drivers from NVIDIA’s official website and follow the on-screen instructions to install them.
6. Run SFC and DISM Commands
- Run Command Prompt as administrator.
- Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

- After SFC completes, type the following DISM commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
- DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
- DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
- DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /restoreHealth

7. Change Link State Power Management Settings
- Open the Control Panel, and click on Power Options.
- Click on ‘Change plan settings‘ then ‘Change advanced power settings’.

- Expand PCI Express, then Link State Power Management, and turn it Off.

8. Disable High Precision Event Timer
- Press Win + X and select Device Manager.

- Expand System devices, right-click on High Precision Event Timer, and click Disable device.

9. Change MSI Afterburner Settings
- Open MSI Afterburner and go to Settings.
- Under the General tab, uncheck ‘Low-level IO drivers’ and ‘Low-level hardware access interface’.

How to Prevent ‘nvlddmkm Error’ in Future?
Listed below are 5 preventive measures to avoid this error in future.
- Keep Graphics Drivers Updated: Ensure that your NVIDIA graphics drivers are up-to-date with the latest version available from NVIDIA’s official website.
- Regular System Maintenance: Perform regular system maintenance such as cleaning temporary files, disk cleanup, and defragmentation to keep your system running smoothly.
- Monitor System Temperature: Keep an eye on your system’s temperature, especially the GPU, to prevent overheating. Consider using cooling pads or external fans if necessary.
- Check for Hardware Conflicts: Regularly check for hardware conflicts within Device Manager and resolve any identified conflicts to prevent this error.
- Correct System Configuration: Ensure that your system configuration settings are correct and compatible with your NVIDIA graphics hardware. Consult the NVIDIA support forum or contact NVIDIA support for guidance if needed.
Conclusion
If the error still exists, write your suggestions or recommendations to us. We will reply promptly.