How to Fix EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION Error in Windows 11

The EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION error in Windows 11 typically appears when an application attempts to access memory that it does not have permission to use. This error commonly occurs while launching games, running resource-intensive software, or opening specific programs. It may cause the application to crash immediately or display a detailed error message referencing a memory address.

In most cases, EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION is linked to corrupted system files, faulty RAM, outdated drivers, incompatible software, or graphics-related issues. Since the error involves memory access, both hardware and software factors must be considered when troubleshooting.

This guide explains how to fix the EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION error in Windows 11 using structured troubleshooting steps.

How to Fix EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION Error in Windows 11

Follow the solutions below in order until the error is resolved.

1. Restart Your Computer

Temporary memory conflicts can trigger this error.

1. Close all running applications.
2. Click Start.
3. Select Power, then click Restart.
4. After rebooting, relaunch the affected application.

A simple restart clears temporary memory allocation conflicts.

2. Run the Application as Administrator

Permission restrictions may block proper memory access.

1. Right-click the affected program’s shortcut.
2. Select Properties.
3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
4. Check Run this program as an administrator.
5. Click Apply, then click OK.
6. Launch the application again.

Running with elevated privileges can resolve access restrictions.

3. Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers frequently cause memory-related crashes.

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Display adapters.
3. Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
5. Restart your computer after updating.

If needed, download the latest drivers directly from your GPU manufacturer such as NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel.

4. Run System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted system files can lead to memory access violations.

1. Press Windows + S, type cmd.
2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
3. Type the following command and press Enter:sfc /scannow
4. Wait for the scan to complete.
5. Restart your computer after the process finishes.

SFC repairs damaged system files affecting application stability.

5. Run DISM Command

If SFC does not resolve the issue, use DISM to repair system images.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
3. Wait for the process to complete.
4. Restart your PC.

DISM repairs deeper system image corruption.

6. Check RAM for Errors

Faulty memory modules can trigger access violation errors.

1. Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
2. Select Restart now and check for problems.
3. Allow Windows Memory Diagnostic to run.
4. Review results after reboot.

If errors are detected, consider reseating or replacing the RAM.

7. Disable Data Execution Prevention (DEP) for the App

In some cases, DEP may block specific applications.

1. Press Windows + S, type View advanced system settings, and open it.
2. Under Performance, click Settings.
3. Go to the Data Execution Prevention tab.
4. Select Turn on DEP for all programs and services except those I select.
5. Click Add and choose the affected program’s executable file.
6. Click Apply, then OK.
7. Restart your computer.

Only add trusted applications when adjusting DEP settings.

8. Reinstall the Affected Application

If the error persists, the program itself may be corrupted.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Click Apps, then select Installed apps.
3. Locate the affected application.
4. Click the three-dot menu and select Uninstall.
5. Restart your computer.
6. Reinstall the application from its official source.

A fresh installation replaces damaged program files.

Conclusion

The EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION error in Windows 11 is commonly caused by memory conflicts, corrupted system files, outdated drivers, faulty RAM, or application compatibility issues. By updating drivers, running SFC and DISM scans, checking memory health, and reinstalling affected software, you can resolve the issue effectively.