Desktop Keeps Dying

crisp

Problem detected and windows shut down with a blue screen

PFN_LIST_CORRUPT

I started yesterday. The PC keeps shutting down without warning and after a few minutes.

I will have to change this computer but I just need to keep it alive so I can transfer files.

Any advice please

I have started looking for a replacement.

Neil_Jones

this is usually a memory error or a driver issue.

The data lives on the hard drive, it'll be salvageable, you can just take it out, stick it in a caddy, connect that to the new computer and copy your data across.

Owain_Moneysaver

May also be related to errors in the hard disk.

Steps to take:
https://www.drivereasy.com/knowledge/fix-pfn-list-corrupt-error-on-windows-solved/

Also check your antivirus settings and update (the software version, not just the virus definitions), as this can cause problems if it's trying to access files as the same time as something else.

that

I would do these: Run a bootable memory checker, and a bootable hard disk checker that includes SMART. Come to think of it a bootable hardware checker and test what you can. http://www.ultimatebootcd.com/

If the hardware diags pass, and the backup is recent (recent is great, but if its old backup something could be better than nothing too), I would restore the c:\windows directory + subdirectories only.

Neil_Jones

SMART doesn't necessarily prove anything on its own, all it reports is what the drive is telling it. It's perfectly possible for a drive to be on its last legs while SMART says there's nothing wrong.

Nothing beats a full sector scan from the drive manufacturer.