Windows Protection Error

Whereas the other faults and errors described in this tutorial seem to be rather vague (or involve virtual memory), this error is straightforward: You have a problem with a VxD, or virtual device driver. The solution is to boot into Safe mode and reinstall the virtual device driver in question.

Numerous other problems can also induce a Windows protection error. The error message text states the specific source, such as memory, or a specific file or the Registry, for example.

Blue-Screen-of-Death Errors

When it is a big and important error, Windows does not mess around with a dialog box or cute graphics and icons. No, it goes straight back to its soul: DOS! And the error message is displayed on a text screen; white text on a blue background. It is called the Blue Screen of Death. Generally, these errors are either fatal or important enough that they require immediate attention.

• If the error message says something along the lines of "Wait for window or press any key (or Ctrl+Alt+Delete) to reboot," then reboot. You can try waiting - especially if you feel that you can fix the problem or the problem will fix itself - but it is normally Ctrl+Alt+Delete+Pray.
• Sometimes, the error message is simply urgent and not life threatening. For example, you may be asked to reinsert a disk that the computer was using. If so, obey the instructions, and the computer continues working.