How to fix Error 104 on Windows 11

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Troubleshooting Guide: Error 104 – Cannot Request Exclusive Semaphores at Interrupt Time

Why This Error Happens

Error 104 occurs when a kernel-mode driver or process attempts to acquire an exclusive semaphore lock while the system is servicing a hardware or software interrupt, which violates Windows synchronization rules since semaphore waits are not permitted at elevated IRQL (Interrupt Request Level). This is typically caused by an outdated or poorly written driver (often storage, network, or virtualization drivers) that improperly handles thread synchronization primitives. Corrupted system files or conflicts between kernel-mode components can also trigger this behavior, especially after a recent driver update or Windows feature update.

Step-by-Step Resolution Guide

  1. Identify the Faulting Driver
  • Open Event Viewer (eventvwr.msc) → navigate to Windows Logs > System.
  • Locate the Error 104 event, expand details, and note the driver/module name listed in the “Source” or “General” tab (e.g., stornvme.sys, nvlddmkm.sys).
  1. Update or Roll Back the Driver
  • Press Win + X → select Device Manager.
  • Locate the device tied to the faulting driver, right-click → Properties → Driver tab.
  • Click Update Driver to fetch the latest version, or Roll Back Driver if the issue started after a recent update.
  1. Run System File Checker and DISM
  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:

    sfc /scannow
  • If corruption is found, follow up with:

    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  • Restart your PC after completion.
  1. Check for Windows Updates
  • Go to Settings > Windows Update → click Check for updates.
  • Install any pending optional driver updates under Advanced Options > Optional Updates, as Microsoft frequently patches known kernel synchronization bugs.
  1. Disable Fast Startup and Hybrid Sleep (if virtualization/storage drivers are involved)
  • Go to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do.
  • Click Change settings that are currently unavailable, then uncheck Turn on fast startup.
  • Save changes and reboot to rule out interrupt conflicts during hybrid resume states.

Alternative or Verification Steps

  • Verify the fix: Reopen Event Viewer after a few reboot cycles and confirm no new Error 104 entries appear under System logs.
  • Alternative fix: If the error persists, use verifier.exe (Driver Verifier) to stress-test drivers and pinpoint the exact faulty driver, then uninstall or replace it via the manufacturer’s latest signed driver package.