8 Ways to Fix Windows Attempted Execute of Noexecute Memory Error

The “Attempted Execute of Noexecute Memory” error typically occurs in Windows operating systems. It is related to memory protection mechanisms designed to prevent certain types of malicious software from executing code in inappropriate memory areas. The error is often caused by an application attempting to run code in a region of memory designated as non-executable. In this guide, we will discuss various ways to fix this issue.

Why Does The  “Attempted Execute of Noexecute Memory” Error Occur

The common causes of the Error are –

• Some older software or misconfigured programs may try to execute in non-executable memory areas, causing this error.
• Corruption in critical system files, such as those used for memory management, can result in this error.
• Certain types of malware attempt to run code in non-executable memory areas to evade detection. This can trigger the error.
• Outdated or corrupted device drivers, mainly graphics drivers, can lead to this error by attempting to access restricted memory areas.
• Failing or defective hardware, such as RAM (memory), can cause the system to malfunction and trigger this error.
• Data Execution Prevention (DEP) or No-Execute settings may be misconfigured, either being too strict or not properly applied to a certain program that needs it.

Symptompe of the Error – Shows blue screen

Methods To Fix The  “Attempted Execute of Noexecute Memory” Error

Method 1. Enable/Disable DEP (Data Execution Prevention)

Data Execution Prevention (DEP) is a security feature that prevents code from executing in certain memory areas, like the stack or heap. If the program you’re trying to run conflicts with DEP, you may need to enable or disable it. To enable or disable DEP on Windows:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, then type sysdm.cpl and hit Enter.

2. Go to the Advanced tab and click Settings under the Performance section.

3. In the Performance Options window, go to the Data Execution Prevention tab.
4. Select “Turn on DEP for essential Windows programs and services only” to enable DEP or “Turn on DEP for all programs and services except those I select” to disable it for specific programs.

5. Add the executable causing the issue to the exceptions list if you disable DEP for specific programs.

Method 2. Check for Corrupted System Files

Sometimes, corrupted system files can trigger this error. Running System File Checker (SFC) can help fix this. Here is what you need to do –

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator by pressing Win + R, typing cmd in the RUN box, and pressing Ctrl+ Shift + Enter.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

sfc /scannow

3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any prompts to repair files if needed.

Method 3. Reinstall the Program

The error could be caused by a bug or compatibility issue with the program you’re trying to run. Try updating the software to its latest version or reinstalling it. 

1. To uninstall the program, press Win + I to open the Settings.
2. Click on Apps in the left panel, followed by Installed Apps on the right side.
3. Locate the app causing the issue, click on the three dots next to it, and choose Uninstall.4. Follow the onscreen instructions to remove the app from the PC.
5. Download the app from an official source, such as the official website or Microsoft Store.

Method 4. Check BIOS/UEFI Settings (for No Execute Protection)

Some CPUs (exceptionally modern Intel and AMD processors) have a hardware feature called No Execute (NX) or Execute Disable (XD) that can block the execution of code in specific memory areas.

1. Reboot your system and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F10, DEL, or ESC during startup).
2. Look for settings related to NX, XD, or Execute Disable. The exact name may vary depending on your motherboard.
3. If enabled, try disabling it to see if it resolves the issue (though enabling it is generally recommended for security purposes).
4. Save your changes and reboot.

Method 5. Update Graphics Drivers

Sometimes, outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can cause memory errors. Try updating your graphics drivers to the latest version using the three ways described below.

Way 1 – Update via the Manufacturer’s Website

Manufacturers typically offer official websites where you can find and download the latest drivers and hardware resources. To update your driver, visit the manufacturer’s website, search for the appropriate driver using your device’s model number, and download it. However, having the correct details about your operating system and hardware is crucial. Without this information, you may end up installing an incorrect driver. For this reason, many users prefer using Device Manager for a more reliable process.

Way 2 – Update via Device Manager

Device Manager is a built-in Windows tool that helps you update drivers and detect hardware issues. To use it:

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. In Device Manager, expand the relevant category (e.g., Display Adapters for graphics drivers).
3. Right-click on the driver you want to update and select Update Driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers, allowing Windows to search for and install the latest driver.

Keep in mind that Device Manager may not always display the most up-to-date driver, as it only shows drivers available in the Windows database. For the latest drivers, a third-party tool may be more effective.

Read Also: Resolved – Missing COM ports in Device Manager Issue on Windows

Way 3 – Update with Advanced Driver Updater (Recommended)

Advanced Driver Updater is a trusted tool that helps keep your drivers up to date. It also backs up your current drivers before updating, so you can choose which drivers to update and view details about the new and old versions. Here’s how to use it:

Note: The trial version allows you to update only one driver at a time. You’ll need to purchase the full version to update all outdated drivers in one go.

1. Download Advanced Driver Updater by clicking the button below.

2. Install and open the application. Click the Start Scan Now button.

3. The app will display a list of outdated drivers. Click the Update button next to the graphics driver.

4. Restart your PC to complete the driver update.

Method 6. Check for Malware or Virus Infection

Malware infections can sometimes cause this error by attempting to execute code in memory areas that shouldn’t be executable. Run a full scan with your antivirus software to ensure your system is clean. You can use Windows Security or any third-party antimalware app. Here are the steps to use Windows Security:

1. Press Win + S to open the Search box and type “ Windows Security.”

2. Click on the result with the same name as you typed.
3. The Windows Security app will now open. Click on the Virus & Threat Protection box.

4. Next, click on Scan Options and choose Full Scan.5. Finally, click on the Scan Now button.

Method 7. Check for Hardware Issues (Memory or RAM)

In rare cases, failing or incompatible RAM can cause memory-related errors. Running a memory diagnostic can help identify potential hardware issues. The Memory Diagnostic tool is a built-in utility that allows scanning the memory for errors. Here is what you need to do:

1. Press the Windows keys, type “Windows Memory Diagnostic,” and click the result with the same name.
2. A new dialog box will open, and click “Restart Now…”.

3. Follow the instructions, and the tool will check and fix memory-related errors.

Read Also: How to Reduce Hardware Reserved Memory too High on Windows

Method 8. Check Application Permissions

If the application you’re using is running with insufficient permissions, it may be unable to access or execute the required memory. Try running the program with Administrator privileges.

• Right-click the application and select Run as Administrator.
• Alternatively, change the program’s compatibility settings to always run as Administrator.

[Conclusion]

The “Attempted Execute of Noexecute Memory” error is typically caused by an application attempting to execute code in a protected or non-executable memory area, often due to DEP (Data Execution Prevention) or NX (No-Execute) settings. This can be triggered by incompatible software, corrupted system files, malware, outdated drivers, or misconfigured system settings. You can usually resolve this issue by updating software, scanning for malware, adjusting DEP settings, and ensuring that system files are intact.

Read Also: 7 Ways to Solve WDF_Violation Blue Screen Error