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How to fix error 0x00000133 in Windows 11

Bug Check 0x00000133: DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION — The DPC watchdog detected a prolonged IRQL at DISPATCH_LEVEL or above.

✅ 65% success rate

👥 0+ users verified

📅 Updated: 2026-08-12

⏱️ 40 min read

Fix based on community reports and expert analysis. Last verified: 2026-08-12 · How we verify fixes

Solution Steps

1 Update your storage drivers: Press Win+X and select 'Device Manager'. Expand 'Disk drives' and 'Storage controllers'. Right-click each device and select 'Update driver'. Choose 'Search automatically for drivers'. This ensures your SSD/HDD drivers are up to date, which often fixes DPC issues.
2 Check for SSD firmware updates: Visit your SSD manufacturer's website (e.g., Samsung, Intel, Crucial) and download the latest firmware tool. Follow their instructions to update the firmware. Outdated firmware can cause DPC watchdog violations.
3 Run the System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as admin (Win+X → 'Terminal (Admin)'). Type 'sfc /scannow' and press Enter. This repairs corrupted system files that might be causing driver delays.
4 If SFC finds issues, run DISM: Type 'DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth' and press Enter. This fixes the system image, which can resolve deeper corruption.
5 Check for overheating: Use HWMonitor to monitor your CPU and GPU temperatures. If they are too high, clean dust and improve airflow. Overheating can cause drivers to slow down.
6 If the error persists, perform a clean boot: Press Win+R, type 'msconfig', and press Enter. In the 'Services' tab, check 'Hide all Microsoft services' and click 'Disable all'. Then go to 'Startup' → 'Open Task Manager' and disable all startup items. Restart. If the error stops, gradually enable services to find the culprit.

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