Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Computing

Windows 11 brings back a familiar ‘friend’ to accompany your PC crashing

Zak Islam
By

Microsoft has decided to change the black screen of death (BSOD) introduced in Windows 11 back to the more familiar blue color.

As Ars Technica discovered in extensive patch notes for a new preview build, Microsoft confirmed the switch in the changelog, saying, “We changed the screen color to blue when a device stops working or a stop error occurs as in previous versions of Windows.”

Blue screen of death from the Windows update
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The reasoning behind the initial replacement of the BSOD to another color was never revealed. The long-established blue error screen has been a recognizable cosmetic feature of the operating system for decades, so it was slightly perplexing when Microsoft opted to apply a fresh look to the dreaded system fault notification.

Recommended Videos

Microsoft’s line of thinking for the change was probably related to the revamp of Windows 11’s user interface. The technology giant perhaps wanted practically all aspects of its latest OS to deliver an updated appearance — even elements that users don’t enjoy seeing. In all likelihood, the swap was enacted to go with the new black log-on and shutdown screens.

Related

Windows’ blue screen of death has remained an inherent part of the operating system’s many iterations. The BSOD was first implemented via Windows 1.0, which was released in 1985. Later versions of Windows incorporated various features over the years to assist users in troubleshooting faults, including debugging information and the less helpful addition of a sad face.

Still, one characteristic that has remained for over 35 years is the color of the error screen. Who knew one could be nostalgic over a fault screen of all things?

While the end-user will understandably be frustrated anytime they’re greeted by the blue screen of death, it’s an integral part of Windows. Error messages can help diagnose both software and hardware-related issues that cause a user’s system to crash, which is particularly helpful for IT professionals.

Irrespective of color changes, at least the functionality has been kept in place for the BSOD. Other areas of Windows 11 have been subjected to several notable issues affecting performance and memory, in addition to a recent bug that results in thousands of empty folders.

As for the BSOD update itself, it’s due for a release in the coming days or weeks. Aside from the black color reverting to blue on the error screen, the new build fixes problems associated with rendering Windows 11’s new Taskbar and Start menu. Complications impacting bluetooth audio volume control, printers, and 32-bit apps have also been patched.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Zak Islam
Zak Islam
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Zak Islam was a freelance writer at Digital Trends covering the latest news in the technology world, particularly the…
How to start Windows 11 in Safe Mode
Windows 11 on a tablet.

If your Windows 11 PC is having issues, one way to troubleshoot those issues is start your PC in Safe Mode. Safe Mode is essentially a very basic version of Windows 11, without all the bells and whistles and only a restricted set of features, drivers, and files. This mode essentially lets you take a look at your computer and helps you figure out exactly what issue is plaguing your PC.

But booting into Safe Mode on Windows 11 isn't as easy as just pressing a single button. You'll need to navigate through a series of menus first and the method for getting there depends on your PC specific situation (Is your PC still working or is it just a blank or black screen?).

Read more
How to remove a Microsoft account from Windows 11
Windows 11 updates are moving to once a year.

While many people love porting their Microsoft account to their new Windows 11 PC, just as many hate the experience. One of the nicest things about having a new computer is how little tabs it has over you, and letting Microsoft in from the beginning — especially in a way that feels required — is a bit letdown for privacy-minded people.

To make matters worse, getting rid of your account feels tricky. It not only feels like it, Microsoft is your direct antagonist in getting the privacy you want. Luckily, you can make a local account that is disconnected from the rest of your life to gain back the personal feel of your computer. Here's how:
Removing a Microsoft account from Windows 11

Read more
The best Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 top down view showing keyboard and touchpad.

Keyboard shortcuts are a great way to save time, whether you're working or relaxing. While we've already covered some of our favorite Windows 10 shortcuts, there are also a few you should try out in Windows 11. Here's a look at some of our favorite shortcuts and how you can use them to your advantage.
New Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts

Windows 11 brings a new set of keyboard shortcuts that aren't available in Windows 10. These shortcuts are catered to some of the new features in the operating system, like the Widgets Pane, Quick Settings, Notification Center, Snap Layouts, and Windows Copilot. Many of these shortcuts will require you to use the Windows Key (⊞), which you can find to the left of the spacebar.

Read more