Have you been surprised by a blue screen with the message QUOTA_UNDERFLOW on your Windows computer? Don't worry, you're not alone. This error, while not one of the most common, can appear unexpectedly and seriously affect your computer's performance, making it slower, unstable, or even unusable.
Although at first glance it may seem like an unsolvable problem, the truth is that there are multiple ways to fix it. Whether you experienced it for the first time while playing a game, installing software, or simply browsing the internet, in this article We will break down all the possible causes and solutions in a detailed and understandable way..
What is the QUOTA_UNDERFLOW error?
The QUOTA_UNDERFLOW error is identified by the code 0x00000021 and usually appears as a blue screen (BSOD or Blue Screen of Death) When there is poor management of system quotas assigned to disk usage, memory, or number of files.
These system fees These are limits set by Windows (or the system administrator) to restrict the use of resources such as disk space or the number of files per user or process. When the system attempts to return more quota than it originally allocated, this type of error appears because it cannot properly manage the operation.
In addition to the code, the error may be accompanied by messages such as:
- "QUOTA_UNDERFLOW has caused a problem and Windows shutdown to prevent damage."
- «:( Your PC has had a problem with QUOTA_UNDERFLOW and needs to restart.»
Main causes of the QUOTA_UNDERFLOW error
The QUOTA_UNDERFLOW blue screen does not have a single cause, but can be due to several factors. Some of the more common are:
- Obsolete or incompatible drivers that interfere with system resource management.
- Lack of space on the hard drive or misuse of the quotas allocated to the processes.
- Corrupted system files or accidentally deleted.
- RAM errors that prevent safe memory allocation.
- Errors when installing or updating Windows, leaving the system unstable.
- Malware or virus that affect critical system files.
- Bad updates software or operating system.
How to Fix the QUOTA_UNDERFLOW Error in Windows
Depending on the cause, there are different methods you can apply to resolve this error. Below, we show you step by step the more effective and recommended.
1. Disable Windows automatic restart
Before making any adjustments, disable the automatic restart after errors option so you can better analyze the failure:
- press Windows + X and select System.
- Click on Advanced System Settings > Start and recovery.
- Uncheck the box Reboot automatically in case of system error.
- Save the changes and continue with the next steps.
2. Scan your system for viruses
Viruses or malware They are responsible for many Windows instabilities. Run a full system scan with Windows Antivirus or your favorite security tool:
- Opens Configuration > Update and security > Windows security.
- Go to Protection against viruses and threats > Exam options.
- Choose Complete analisis and press browse now.
3. Keep your system and drivers updated
One of the main causes of BSOD errors is having older versions of Windows or incorrectly installed drivers. To update your operating system:
- Accede to Configuration > Update and security.
- Click on Search for updates and let the system install everything available.
To update the drivers:
- Write Device administrator in the Windows finder.
- Review each category and update devices with a warning icon.
- Right click > Update Driver.
4. Run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter
Windows includes a specific troubleshooter for BSOD errors (in versions prior to 1809):
- Go to Configuration > Update and security > Solve problems.
- Choose Blue screen and then Run the troubleshooter.
In newer versions, you can use the app Get Help by typing keywords like “fix blue screen errors.”
5. Repair system files with SFC and DISM
System File Checker (SFC) y DISM They are integrated tools to detect and repair corrupted system files.
Run commands from a window CMD as administrator:
sfc / scannow
And later:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-image /RestoreHealth
It is important to restart after completing both processes.
6. Free up space and delete temporary files
The excess of junk files This may cause errors due to lack of space. Use the built-in disk cleanup tool:
- press Windows + R and writes cleanmgr.
- Select the primary drive (usually C:).
- Brand Temporary files, Litter bins and other non-essential items.
- press OK and delete that data.
7. Run the CHKDSK command
This command scans your hard drive for bad sectors or file system errors. From CMD as administrator, run:
chkdsk C: / f / r
Replace letter C with the letter corresponding to your drive, if applicable. Restart your computer to complete the process.
8. Check RAM
A Faulty RAM may generate errors such as QUOTA_UNDERFLOW. To check its status:
- Press Windows + R and writes mdsched.exe.
- Choose Reboot now and check for any issues.
- The system will reboot and scan the RAM.
9. Uninstall problematic updates or software
If the error appeared after installing a new program or update, try uninstalling it:
- Go to Configuration > Applications > Applications and features.
- Select the suspicious software and press uninstall.
- For updates, go to View update history and choose Uninstall updates.
10. Use a system restore point
If all else fails, you can restore the system to a state prior to the failure:
- Accede to Control panel > Recovery.
- Click on Open restore Sistem.
- Choose a point where the system was working correctly and follow the instructions.
Recover lost files after the error
Sometimes the QUOTA_UNDERFLOW error can lead to data loss. Programs like Stellar data recovery o MiniTool Partition Wizard They allow you to recover deleted files after a BSOD. Losing files can be worrisome, so it's a good idea to know the best tools for restoring information.
These programs scan the disk for recoverable file structures, and allow you to restore them to another safe location. To avoid future problems, consider Limit the disk space that can be used in Windows 10.
The QUOTA_UNDERFLOW error may seem intimidating, but with patience and the right steps, it can be easily resolved. Most problems are usually related to file system errors, outdated drivers, or physical problems like bad sectors or faulty RAM. Fortunately, Windows and external tools offer multiple ways to restore system stability. By following this detailed guide, you can identify the cause of the failure and bring your computer back to life without having to format or lose your files.