Windows stopped with a WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR (bug check 0x00000124) because a fatal hardware error was reported to the Windows Hardware Error Architecture (WHEA) that the operating system could not recover from. This is one of the most hardware-definitive BSODs — it almost always indicates a physical problem with the CPU, memory, motherboard, or power delivery rather than a software or driver fault.
CPU overclocking or memory XMP/EXPO profiles are pushing hardware beyond stable operating limits, causing machine check exceptions.
The CPU, memory modules, or motherboard is defective or beginning to fail.
Thermal issues — the CPU or other components are overheating, causing hardware-level errors.
A hardware component (RAM, GPU, storage controller) is installed loosely or making poor contact.
An outdated or buggy BIOS/UEFI firmware has a known compatibility or stability issue with the installed CPU or memory.
Rarely, a driver can cause a false-positive 0x124 event by triggering the WHEA error pathway incorrectly.
How to fix it
Disable all overclocking immediately. In BIOS/UEFI, reset all CPU, memory, and voltage settings to defaults. Disable XMP/EXPO memory profiles and run memory at its base JEDEC speed. Test for stability before re-enabling any overclocking.
Check temperatures under load using HWiNFO64 or HWMonitor. CPU temperature should stay below 90°C under sustained load. Clean dust from heatsinks and fans. Reapply thermal paste if temperatures are high and the system is more than 2–3 years old.
Run an extended memory test using MemTest86 (boot from USB, not the Windows tool) for at least 2 full passes. Any errors indicate faulty RAM. Test sticks individually to isolate the failing module.
Reseat all hardware: remove and reinstall RAM sticks, GPU, and any PCIe cards. Check for bent CPU socket pins on AMD systems.
Update BIOS/UEFI firmware from the motherboard manufacturer's website. Many 0x124 issues are fixed in BIOS updates, particularly for newer CPU generations.
Review the Windows Event Viewer (System log) around the time of the crash for WHEA-Logger events (Event ID 18 or 19) which contain the machine check exception details and may identify the specific hardware component involved.
If the error persists after all software steps, the hardware is likely faulty. Contact the manufacturer if under warranty or test with replacement components.
