MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION (0x0000009C): Windows Blue Screen Fix

Quick answer

The Windows stop code MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION (0x0000009C) means: The processor reported a fatal hardware error (machine check). This code often points to hardware, disk or startup problems. Back up important files as soon as you can and follow the steps below; if it keeps returning, have the PC checked.

Before you start: note the stop code shown on the blue screen. If Windows will not start normally, it usually opens Automatic Repair after two failed starts; from there choose Advanced options to reach Safe Mode or System Restore.

Is it serious? Can I keep using my PC?

Severity: High

This code often points to hardware, disk or startup problems. Back up important files as soon as you can and follow the steps below; if it keeps returning, have the PC checked.

Common causes

Hardware fault (processor, motherboard, power supply)
Overclocking, overheating or unstable power
Outdated BIOS/UEFI or SSD firmware

How to fix it

Restart the PC. If the blue screen happened only once and does not return, no further action is usually needed
Reset any overclocking or XMP/EXPO profile to default and check temperatures and cooling
Update the BIOS/UEFI and SSD firmware from the manufacturer
Run the PC or component maker's hardware diagnostics; the part may need repair or replacement

Frequently asked questions

What does MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION mean?

The Windows stop code MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION (0x0000009C) means: The processor reported a fatal hardware error (machine check).

Is MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION serious?

Severity: High. This code often points to hardware, disk or startup problems. Back up important files as soon as you can and follow the steps below; if it keeps returning, have the PC checked.

How do I fix MACHINE_CHECK_EXCEPTION?

Start with these steps: Restart the PC. If the blue screen happened only once and does not return, no further action is usually needed; Reset any overclocking or XMP/EXPO profile to default and check temperatures and cooling; Update the BIOS/UEFI and SSD firmware from the manufacturer; Run the PC or component maker's hardware diagnostics; the part may need repair or replacement.

Related codes

0x101 CLOCK_WATCHDOG_TIMEOUTA processor core stopped responding (an expected clock interrupt was not received in time).0x124 WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERRORA fatal hardware error occurred (Windows Hardware Error Architecture).0x7F UNEXPECTED_KERNEL_MODE_TRAPThe processor raised a trap that the Windows kernel could not handle, often a hardware or overclocking problem.0xEA THREAD_STUCK_IN_DEVICE_DRIVERA device driver got stuck waiting for its hardware, most often the graphics card.0x116 VIDEO_TDR_FAILUREThe graphics driver stopped responding and Windows could not recover it.0x2E DATA_BUS_ERRORA memory parity error was detected, which usually means faulty RAM or other hardware.0x133 DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATIONA driver or device took too long to finish its work, often a storage or SSD driver or firmware.0x154 UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTIONThe memory store component hit an unexpected error, often linked to the disk or security software.