Computer locks up displaying a blue screen

Description

The computer freezes unexpectedly displaying a blue screen, commonly referred to as the "Blue Screen of Death!". The only option is to reboot the computer manually. This document discusses some possible solutions to frequent blue screen crashes when using ArcGIS Desktop.

Cause

A misconfigured or incorrect system setting or settings.

Solution or Workaround

• Ensure that the computer meets the minimum system requirements. Refer to the ArcGIS Desktop - previous versions link in the Related Information section below, click the tab for the version and click the System requirements link.
• Check the ArcMap and ArcCatalog documents for possible solutions. Refer to Troubleshooting ArcMap Crashes article in the Related Information section below.
• Make sure that the computer is up to date with any Microsoft updates. Install the most recent ArcGIS Desktop Service Pack.