How to Fix fltmgr.sys BSOD Error

Published On - January 24, 2026

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Experiencing the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on your Windows PC can be frustrating—especially when you’re dealing with a cryptically named error like fltmgr.sys. This particular BSOD error is tied to a crucial component of the Windows operating system, and resolving it requires both understanding and care. Whether you’re a seasoned IT professional or a casual user looking for solutions, you’re in the right place.

TL;DR (Too long, didn’t read)

The fltmgr.sys BSOD error typically stems from issues related to disk drivers, system corruption, or faulty hardware. You can fix it by updating drivers, running built-in diagnostic tools like SFC or CHKDSK, and checking for Windows updates. If you’re still encountering the error, rolling back recent changes or using System Restore can often resolve the issue. Continue reading to learn about each method in detail.

What is fltmgr.sys?

The file fltmgr.sys stands for Filter Manager Driver and is a system file responsible for controlling file system drivers. It plays a significant role in smoothly managing and routing data through the file system stack. When there’s something wrong with this file, your system cannot handle file input/output operations effectively like reading or writing data, which results in a BSOD.

Common messages associated with this BSOD include:

  • IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
  • PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA
  • KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED

What Causes the fltmgr.sys BSOD Error?

Multiple issues can lead to this error, and determining the exact cause can require some troubleshooting. Common culprits include:

  • Corrupted or outdated device drivers
  • Malware or virus infections
  • Disk errors or a failing hard drive
  • Software conflicts with recently installed programs
  • Corrupt system files

How to Fix the Fltmgr.sys BSOD Error

Now that we understand what we’re up against, let’s walk through step-by-step solutions to fix the fltmgr.sys error.

1. Restart Your Computer

It might sound basic, but sometimes, a simple restart can clear temporary issues causing the BSOD. If the error is a one-time glitch, rebooting could solve the problem immediately.

2. Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft frequently releases updates to patch bugs and improve hardware compatibility. Ensure your system is up-to-date:

  1. Go to Settings → Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates.
  3. Install any available updates and restart your PC.

3. Update Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can trigger BSODs. Update essential drivers, particularly for your disk drives and chipset:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Find the Disk Drives section and expand it.
  3. Right-click your drive and choose Update driver.
  4. Let Windows search automatically for updated driver software.

4. Run DISM and SFC Tools

Corrupt system files are another leading cause of fltmgr.sys-related errors. Run DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool) and SFC (System File Checker) scans:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow

To run these tools:

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
  2. Type the above commands one by one and press Enter.
  3. Restart your PC once the scans are complete.

5. Check Your Hard Drive for Errors

Faulty sectors or drive degradation can lead to system file errors, including issues with fltmgr.sys. Use CHKDSK to scan for problems:

chkdsk C: /f /r

You’ll need to restart your PC to allow the tool to scan and fix the disk.

6. Use System Restore

If the issue started recently after a system change or software installation, you can restore your system to a previous date when everything was working correctly:

  1. Type System Restore into the Start menu and open it.
  2. Select a restore point from a time before the BSOD appeared.
  3. Follow the prompts to restore your system.

This doesn’t affect your personal files but will undo system-level changes.

7. Scan for Malware

Malicious software can corrupt system files such as fltmgr.sys or disguise itself using similar filenames. Perform a thorough malware scan using:

  • Windows Security (built-in)
  • Malwarebytes Free
  • Other reputable antivirus programs

8. Revert Problematic Updates or Drivers

In some cases, a recent driver or update might be the cause. Use the following to revert back:

  • Go to Device Manager, right-click the suspected component, and click Properties.
  • Under the Driver tab, select Roll Back Driver if available.

For Windows Updates:

  1. Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
  2. Click View update history, then Uninstall updates.
  3. Choose the update to remove and restart your PC.

9. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot allows Windows to run with minimal drivers and startup programs. This helps identify whether a background application is the cause.

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all.
  4. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  5. Disable each startup program.

Restart your computer. If the BSOD disappears, re-enable services one by one to find the culprit.

10. Consider Hardware Issues

If all software solutions fail, it’s time to consider that your hardware might be at fault. Two pieces of hardware are particularly suspect:

  • Your hard drive – use CrystalDiskInfo or other tools to check SMART status
  • Your RAM – use Windows Memory Diagnostic

Wrapping Up

Dealing with the fltmgr.sys BSOD error doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right tools and a systematic approach, you’ll likely fix the problem without needing professional assistance. From updating drivers to scanning disk integrity and malware, this guide has covered all crucial aspects of resolving the issue.

Making frequent system backups and running regular hardware diagnostics can prevent such errors in the long run. And remember, if you find yourself out of options, don’t hesitate to consult a technician to check for deeper, hardware-related issues.

Happy troubleshooting!