How do I fix “Failed to create dump file due to error …”?
While wandering around in Event Viewer, you may stumble upon error code 161 and the message “Failed to create dump file due to an error while creating a dump.” Typically, users look into this component of the system after the constant appearance of the blue screen of death and unsuccessful attempts to access a memory dump. This problem can occur on all versions of Windows, but most often it is Windows 10 users who complain about it.
What is causing this error to appear?
As a rule, there are only three reasons for the manifestation of this error:
- the disk cleanup application deletes the generated dump file;
- damaged Windows system files;
- outdated BIOS version or problems with its settings.
After reviewing the possible causes, it’s time to start fixing the error “Failed to create a dump file due to an error …”.
Method # 1 Removing a third-party cleaning program
Some users prefer to install third-party programs on their systems, the functionality of which is to clean the system from unnecessary garbage, temporary files, and the like. However, they may not even suspect that these programs often remove critical files from the system. By mistake, of course, not on purpose. If a similar program is installed on your Windows, then it may delete the memory dump.
We recommend that you get rid of such a program. You can uninstall this or that software in such system components as “Applications and Features” and “Programs and Features”. Once you get rid of the program, wait for BSoD and check Event Viewer for “Failed to create dump file due to error …”.
Method # 2 Using DISM and SFC
Perhaps the error while creating a memory dump occurred due to damaged system files, the functionality of which is used in this process. This is fairly easy to check by running the DISM and SFC system utilities. These utilities will scan the system for corrupted files and try to recover if possible.
To run DISM and SFC, you need to do the following:
- press Windows + R;
- write in an empty line “cmd” and press the combination Ctrl + Shift + Enter;
- write the command “sfc / scannow” and press Enter;
- wait until the SFC finishes working and restart the computer;
- open the Command Prompt using the same steps;
- enter the command “DISM / Online / Cleanup-Image / RestoreHealth” and press Enter;
- wait for the process to finish and restart your PC.
When BSoD appears again, open Event Viewer and check if the message “Failed to create dump file due to an error while creating a dump” disappeared.
Method # 3 BIOS update
Some users claim that they managed to get rid of this error simply by updating the BIOS of their motherboard. Unfortunately, we cannot provide you with instructions as each manufacturer’s motherboard is updated differently. You need to go to the website of the official manufacturer and read the instructions provided there.
Method # 4 Resetting the computer to its original state
If none of the above methods helped you in resolving the error “Failed to create a dump file due to an error while creating a dump,” then we recommend returning the computer to its original state. Yes, the method is quite radical, but it will surely save you both from the error when creating a dump and from BSoD.
To return your computer to its original state, you need to do the following:
- right-click on Start;
- select the “Options” item;
- go to the “Update and Security” section;
- go to the tab “Return the computer to its original state”;
- follow the instructions on the screen.
That’s all. Your operating system is back to its original, more stable state.
