How to Fix EXCEPTION_ILLEGAL_INSTRUCTION Error on Windows 11?

Hi everyone,

I’ve been running into the EXCEPTION_ILLEGAL_INSTRUCTION error on my Windows 11 PC. It usually happens when I launch certain programs, and sometimes it leads to a crash or BSOD.

I’m not sure if it’s caused by corrupted files, outdated drivers, or hardware issues (CPU/overclocking?). I’ve already tried updating Windows and drivers, but the error keeps coming back.

Has anyone else dealt with this? What steps should I try to fix it?

Thanks!

Tagged: Windows 11

System/ OS Errors

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Mira Lennox Lennox

Participant

September 16, 2025 at 12:15 pm

The EXCEPTION_ILLEGAL_INSTRUCTION error happens when a program tries to use a CPU instruction your processor can’t run. Common causes are corrupted files, incompatible software, outdated drivers, overclocking, or hardware issues. To fix it, reset any overclocked CPU or RAM, update your BIOS, run sfc /scannow and DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth to repair Windows files, and update or reinstall key drivers like graphics and chipset. Reinstall programs that trigger the error, check they’re compatible with Windows 11, and run CPU/RAM tests to rule out hardware problems. Booting in Safe Mode or a clean boot can help identify conflicting software.

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