How to Fix CLOCK_WATCHDOG_TIMEOUT Error on Windows 11/10

The CLOCK_WATCHDOG_TIMEOUT error is a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) issue that occurs when the processor fails to communicate properly with system threads. Here’s a step-by-step guide to resolve this issue.

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1. Check Hardware Connections

• Loose Connections: Ensure all hardware components, such as RAM, GPU, and CPU, are properly connected.
• Overheating: Clean your PC to prevent overheating and ensure proper cooling.

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2. Update Device Drivers

• Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause the error.
• Steps:
  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand categories like Processors, Display adapters, and Network adapters.
  3. Right-click on each device and select Update driver.

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3. Disable Overclocking

• Overclocking can cause instability in system threads.
• Steps:
  1. Enter your BIOS/UEFI settings by pressing a key like F2, F10, or DEL during startup.
  2. Disable overclocking options and save changes.

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4. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

• Faulty RAM can trigger this error.
• Steps:
  1. Press Windows + R and type mdsched.exe.
  2. Choose Restart now and check for problems.
  3. Wait for the test to complete and review the results.

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5. Perform a System File Check

• Corrupted system files can lead to this error.
• Steps:
  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Let the scan complete and repair files.

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6. Update BIOS/UEFI

• An outdated BIOS can cause compatibility issues.
• Steps:
  1. Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website.
  2. Download the latest BIOS update.
  3. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to update.

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7. Check for Windows Updates

• Missing updates can cause BSOD errors.
• Steps:
  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates and install available updates.

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8. Scan for Malware

• Malware can interfere with system processes.
• Steps:
  1. Open Windows Security (Windows + I > Privacy & Security > Windows Security).
  2. Run a Full Scan.

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9. Perform a Clean Boot

• A clean boot can help identify problematic third-party software.
• Steps:
  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
  3. Restart your computer.

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10. Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)

• If nothing else works, reinstalling Windows may resolve the issue.
• Steps:
  1. Backup your data.
  2. Create a bootable USB drive using the Windows Media Creation Tool.
  3. Boot from the USB and follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows.

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Quick Fix Checklist

• Update drivers and Windows.
• Disable overclocking in BIOS.
• Run sfc /scannow and Windows Memory Diagnostic.
• Check for malware and clean boot your system.