Understanding BSODs: Kernel Data Inpage Error and NETw5s64.sys Issues 'bsod kernel_data_inpage_error'

Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors can be frustrating, especially when they seem mysterious or difficult to troubleshoot. One such error is the 'kernel_data_inpage_error' stop code, often accompanied by references to the NETw5s64.sys driver from Intel Corporation.

In this article, we'll explore two common issues related to BSOD kernel data in-page errors and provide guidance on resolving them:

1. Reinstalling or Updating the Netw5s64.sys Wireless WiFi Link Driver

The first step when encountering a 'kernel_data_inpage_error' with NETw5s64.sys is to ensure that you're running the latest version of this driver from Intel Corporation.

Here's how to check for and install updates:

1. Open Device Manager by right-clicking on Start, selecting Device Management.

2. Expand the Network Adapters section.

3. Right-click on your Wireless Adapter (usually 'Intel(R) Dual Band-AC 3160 WLAN' or similar).

4. Select Update driver.

Follow the prompts to search for and install any available updates from Intel's website if prompted.

2. Removing McAfee Antivirus

McAfee is a common cause of BSODs, including kernel_data_inpage_errors. If you're experiencing frequent crashes after installing or updating your antivirus software (especially if it coincides with these issues), consider temporarily removing and re-installing the latest version:

1. Open Control Panel.

2. Select Programs & Features (or 'Add/Remove Programs' in older versions).

3. Look for McAfee-related entries, including any under 'Entries to remove'.

4. Uncheck all boxes next to them if they are checked.

Reboot your computer and see if the BSODs persist after removing McAfee completely before re-installing it again from a reputable source like the official website.

Troubleshooting Steps with WinDbg

If neither of these steps resolve the issue, or you'd rather dive deeper into diagnosing the problem yourself, here's how to use Windbg:

1. Boot your computer in Safe Mode by pressing F8 during startup.

2. Open Command Prompt as an administrator (right-click on Start > Properties > Compatibility > Run as Administrator).

3. Type 'bcdedit /bootopt nointegritycheck' and press Enter.

This command will temporarily disable the integrity check for boot files, allowing you to run Windbg in kernel mode:

1. Insert your Windows installation media or provide a path to it when prompted.

2. Open Command Prompt again as an administrator from within Safe Mode.

3. Type 'bcdedit /bootintegrity' and press Enter.

This command will re-enable the integrity check after collecting data with WinDbg.

Using Windbg:

1. Download and install Windows Debugging (WinDbx) from Microsoft's official website:

2. Launch WinDbx and open the memory dump file (.dmp) from where your BSOD occurred.

To view information about a specific bug check code, use this syntax:

analyze -show Replace '' with the actual error code you're seeing in blue on black during startup or within Event Viewer logs.

Bsod kernel_data_inpage_error