How to Fix a Bad System Config Info Error in Windows 10

Multiple ways to address this common Windows 10 stop code

“Bad System Config Info” is a Windows 10 stop code error that's usually accompanied by the following message:

Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart. (Bad System Config Info)

There may be a little more information about the cause of the error. Fixes include updating the system drivers, repairing the Windows registry, and rebuilding the Boot Configuration Data (BCD).

What Causes Bad System Config Info Errors?

“Bad System Config Info” is a generic error that can appear for several reasons:

  • Missing Windows updates
  • Outdated drivers
  • Bad boot configuration data (BCD)
  • Corrupted Windows registry files
  • Damaged hardware

If you see this stop code error when your computer boots up, you'll have to rely on the Windows Advanced Startup Options.

The fixes recommended in this article also apply to older versions of Windows.

Person with the blue screen of death on a Windows PC

Colleen Tighe / Lifewire 

How to Fix a Bad System Config Info Error in Windows 10

Try these steps in order until you stop seeing the 'Bad System Config Info' message.

  1. Restart Windows. This usually isn't a permanent solution, but rebooting the system will clear out temporary files that could be causing problems.

  2. Remove recently installed applications and updates. If the error started occurring after you installed a new program or an update, there could be Windows compatibility issues.

  3. Check for Windows updates. Microsoft may have released an update that will address the problem. You should always install new Windows updates when prompted so that your PC runs properly.

  4. Run CHKDSK. CHKDSK is a built-in tool that scans your PC for corrupt files and repairs them. You might first want to run SFC, which specifically looks at your Windows system files, but CHKDSK covers those files as well as everything else on your hard drive.

  5. Update Windows drivers. Your hardware needs the latest drivers to work properly with Windows. Device drivers usually update automatically, but you should manually check for updates for recently added hardware (i.e., keyboards, printers, etc.).

  6. Repair the Windows registry. The Windows Registry is essential for making sure your software and hardware can work together seamlessly. Running the automatic repair will fix most registry problems. If it doesn't, you can do a system refresh, which will reinstall all of your applications without removing any of your personal files.

  7. Use Windows System Restore. If you have a Windows restore point set up, you can restore your PC to a previous state before the error started occurring. System Restore only applies to system files, so your personal files (documents, photos, etc.) won't be affected.

    Your PC should automatically create regular restore points, but you can set up restore points manually as well.

  8. Rebuild the BCD. If your PC doesn't boot up, there could be a problem with the boot configuration data (BCD). Fortunately, you can rebuild it using the Command Prompt. Rebuilding the BCD will also fix the BOOTMGR is Missing error and similar startup issues.

  9. Test your RAM. Use the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool to check for issues with your RAM. If a problem is discovered, you might need to replace the RAM.

  10. Check and repair your hard drive. If you recently installed new RAM or other hardware, check the see that it's installed properly. If you dropped or damaged your computer, see if you can get it repaired under warranty. You may need to open up your PC.

  11. Factory reset your Windows 10 PC. As a last resort, resetting your PC will return it to the original state and install a fresh copy of Windows. Unless you choose the Keep my files option, you'll lose all of your personal data and software, so back up your hard drive first if possible.

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