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Fix: EXCEPTION_ILLEGAL_INSTRUCTION Error on Windows 11

Performing a clean boot helps most users

6 min. read

Published onOctober 4, 2023

published onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

Application crash errors are usually uncommon, but ones not developed properly often throw an error code. One such is theException_Illegal_Instructionapplication or fatal error. It’s commonly encountered with games, but editing software and browsers, too, trigger it.

The error message reads,The exception Illegal Instruction An attempt was made to execute an illegal instruction (0xc000001d) occurred in the application at location XXXXXXXXXX, where the location varies. It’s often followed by a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), and a crash report is generated.

Causes ofEXCEPTION_ILLEGAL_INSTRUCTIONerror on Windows 11:

How do I fix the EXCEPTION_ILLEGAL_INSTRUCTION Error on Windows 11?

Before we start with the slightly complex solutions, try these quick ones first:

If none work, head to the fixes listed next.

1. Reinstall the graphics driver

When faced withException_Illegal_Instructionin Unreal Engine, reinstalling the driver did the trick. If that doesn’t work, use athird-party driver uninstaller toolto effectively remove all traces.

2. Update the graphics driver

When you encounter a game crash followed by theException_Illegal_Instruction (0xc000001d)error code, updating the graphics driver will do the trick!

And make sure to check the manufacturer’s official website for the latest driver version. Here are the direct links to the download pages:

3. Run the program in compatibility mode

4. Repair or install Visual C++ Redistributables

To fixException_Illegal_Instructionwith C++ programs, you will need to repair the Visual C++ Redistributable packages if these are already downloaded. In case they are not found, install them. Another issue linked with redistributables is theLoginUI.exe system application error.

5. Reinstall the affected program

If that doesn’t work, use areliable uninstaller toolto get rid of any remnant files and Registry entries, and then reinstall the program.

6. Perform a clean boot

Aclean boot in Windows 11will help eliminate any third-party conflicts triggering theException_Illegal_Instructionannoying crash. Now, enable the disabled services and programs one at a time, identify the problematic ones, and terminate them for good!

7. Check the RAM

As per the error report file, the underlying cause could often be linked to a malfunctioning RAM. Remove the modules, clean them gently, and then plug them back in.

You could use theWindows Memory Diagnostictool to run a bunch of tests on the RAM. Also, try running theExtended Modeof it. When the tool starts, pressF1and get into theExtended Mode.

Besides, running aneffective hardware diagnostic toolshould help identify the problem and get rid of it! You may try that as well.

If none of the fixes listed here work againstException_Illegal_Instruction, we recommend you either contact the app developers for software issues or the PC manufacturer for hardware problems. They have helped many with complex errors likeException Access Violation.

While you are it, another issue, theException Breakpoint application errorthat troubled many, is also linked to, more or less, the same underlying causes. And one of the fixes for it could work in this case!

For any queries or to share what worked for you, drop a comment below.

Fix: EXCEPTION_ILLEGAL_INSTRUCTION Error on Windows 11#

How do I fix the EXCEPTION_ILLEGAL_INSTRUCTION Error on Windows 11?#

1. Reinstall the graphics driver#

2. Update the graphics driver#

3. Run the program in compatibility mode#

4. Repair or install Visual C++ Redistributables#

5. Reinstall the affected program#

6. Perform a clean boot#

7. Check the RAM#