Storage and file system errors

UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION (0x00000154)

Stop code 0x00000154, also written 0x154. Here is what it means, what usually causes it, and the safest order to work through fixes on Windows 11 and Windows 10.

In short

The Windows store component, which handles memory compression and paging, caught an unexpected exception.

What UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION means

The store component manages compressed memory and paging. When it catches an exception it cannot handle, Windows stops. Failing or incompatible storage, outdated storage drivers and security software are commonly associated with this code.

Common causes

A failing or unreliable SSD or hard drive
Outdated storage controller drivers or SSD firmware
Security software conflicting with storage access
Damaged system files

How to fix UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION

Work through these in order and test after each one. Stopping as soon as the crashes stop tells you which change mattered.

Check the health of the drive. Read the SMART data with the drive maker's tool or CrystalDiskInfo and look for reallocated or pending sectors, media errors and a low remaining-life figure. Back up important files first if the drive reports any warning.
Update storage drivers and SSD firmware. Install the chipset and storage package from the motherboard or laptop maker, and check the SSD maker's utility for a firmware update. Back up before any firmware update.
Test without third-party security software. Uninstall third-party antivirus temporarily and rely on Windows Security while you test. Reinstall the latest version afterwards if it was not the cause.
Repair Windows system files. Open Terminal (Admin) and run sfc /scannow. If it reports damage it could not repair, run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth, restart, and run sfc /scannow once more.
Test the memory. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic (search for it in Start) for a quick check, then MemTest86 for several passes if the crashes continue. Any error points to a faulty stick or slot, or to memory settings the hardware cannot run reliably.

When to stop and protect your data

If SMART data shows errors or the drive disappears at random, treat the drive as failing and back up immediately.

Not sure this is your code?

The stop code appears as text on the blue screen. If the PC restarted before you could read it, open Event Viewer, then Windows Logs, then System, and look for a BugCheck event with ID 1001. You can also search all stop codes.

Related guides

Other storage and file system errors

Frequently asked questions

What does UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION mean?

The Windows store component, which handles memory compression and paging, caught an unexpected exception. The store component manages compressed memory and paging. When it catches an exception it cannot handle, Windows stops. Failing or incompatible storage, outdated storage drivers and security software are commonly associated with this code.

What usually causes UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION?

Typical causes: A failing or unreliable SSD or hard drive; Outdated storage controller drivers or SSD firmware; Security software conflicting with storage access; Damaged system files.

How do I fix UNEXPECTED_STORE_EXCEPTION (0x00000154)?

A sensible order is: 1) Check the health of the drive; 2) Update storage drivers and SSD firmware; 3) Test without third-party security software; 4) Repair Windows system files. If SMART data shows errors or the drive disappears at random, treat the drive as failing and back up immediately.

Use this guidance carefully

A stop code can have several causes, and these steps are general guidance rather than a diagnosis of your PC. If your data matters, back it up before repairs. If the problem continues, a hardware technician can test the parts.

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