Page Frame Number (PFN) list is a database that tracks the allocation of memory used by processes. This way, your system can check for available memory locations to allocate new processes.
Corruption of this list disables your PC from properly running system processes, thereby causing a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error.
In this article, we explain the reasons for the PFN_LIST_CORRUPT BSOD error and possible solutions.
How Does PFN List Get Corrupted on Windows 10
There are a few reasons possible for the PFN list to get corrupted. Some of them are as follows:
How to Fix PFN List Corruption on Windows 10
The most common causes for PFN list corruption include drivers and physicalmemory errors. So troubleshooting for such is certain to fix this issue.
Please find the methods to fix corruption in the Page Frame Number List below. We recommend following these methods in the mentioned order.
Fix System Errors With DISM and SFC
Deployment Image Servicing and Management and System File Checker scan and fix system file errors. They might fix this error if corrupt system files are the underlying reasons. Follow these directions to run these tools:
Check for Disk Errors
This error can also occur due to bad sectors or logical file errors in the system drive. Running the CHKDSK tool will likely fix this issue. Please follow the steps below:
Update Windows OS
Operating System Updates include fixes for many preexisting bugs. It is best to keep your system fully updated to avoid system problems. You may be able to fix the PFN_LIST_CORRUPT error after updating Windows. Here’s how you can do so:
Disable Overclocking of CPU
Overclocking your CPU can cause many memory issues. It might be one of the reasons for the PFN_LIST_CORRUPT error.
The standard method to disable overclocking is to restore BIOS to the default settings. Here are the steps to do so:
You’ll most likely find shortcuts or buttons for restoring to default on the UEFI settings screen. If not, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the manufacturer.
Check Faulty RAM
A faulty RAM is one of the most common reasons for this error. PFN list contains information about virtual and physical memory allocation states. So, a defective physical memory device, i.e., RAM, can cause this list to become corrupt.
Follow the instructions below to check for RAM defects:
The error message may bedue to RAMor the motherboard slot. Test by using separate RAM sticks on different slots, and run this program to check for faulty hardware. Then replace the defective device to fix the issue.
You can also download and use other memory testing software if the Memory Diagnostics detects the error but fails to narrow down the cause.
Check Minidump File
A system crash creates a minidump file in the C:\Windows\Minidump directory. you’re able to use a debugger to open and analyze the minidump file to find out the cause for the crash.
Follow the instructions below to use the minidump file to determine the cause for the error:
Update Available Drivers
Software error in faulty drivers is also a major reason for memory corruption. You canupdate all your available driversor select problematic ones by analyzing the minidump file to resolve this issue. Follow the steps below to update your drivers:
Reinstall or Rollback Drivers
If your drivers are fully updated, you can try reinstalling them to solve errors in the driver software. Follow these instructions to do so:
If reinstalling proves useless, try rolling back to the last version. Also, make sure to use this method if you start encountering the PFN error after driver updates. Here’s how to rollback the drivers:
Run Driver Verifier
Driver Verifier performs various tests on your drivers to detect bugs and failures. You can carry out this test on multiple drivers at once. But it is recommended to only test the non-Microsoft drivers.
Uninstall Recent Windows Update
There may be unresolved bugs in a new system update. If you encountered this error after a system update, please uninstall it. Then, check if the issue resolves. If it doesn’t, you can install the update again anyway.
Here are the steps to uninstall the most recent Windows update:
Scan for Malware
Malware programs are responsible for numerous system problems. It is always recommended to keep your system protected from any external threats. Please make sure to enable real-time protection and even cloud-based protection on a reliable antivirus.
Perform a full system scan or even a boot-time scan with your antivirus program whenever you encounter a BSOD error. Errors due to malware will likely get fixed after removing them.
Run Blue Screen Troubleshooter
Older versions of Windows (before Windows 10 version 1809) also have a Blue Screen Troubleshooter. Follow these steps to run this tool:
System Restore
System Restore is a tool to revert the system to a restore point. This way, you can remove all system errors if you have an appropriate restore point. Follow these directions to perform a system restore:
Update BIOS/UEFI
Errors in the system configuration of your BIOS/UEFI settings may also cause many BSOD errors. There may also be a discrepancy between your motherboard and your UEFI. This scenario is likely if you are used to replacing old hardware. You can tryupdating your BIOSor UEFI if you encounter this error. Please execute the following steps:
Reset Your PC
you’re able to try resetting your PC as the last resort to solve the PFN_LIST_CORRUPT error. Windows has a simple interface to reset your PC to factory settings. It is also possible touse the Command Promptto do so.
The normal method to perform a system reset is as follows:
Check and Replace Hardware
If resetting your system still does not solve this issue, faulty hardware is likely responsible. You can only replace the hardware device with a functioning one. Please seek expert help to check and replace defective parts of your PC.
