The most common cause is outdated or corrupted graphics card drivers, especially for Nvidia cards after updates. Other possible reasons include overclocked memory, programs running in the background, or conflicts with certain system files like randgrid.sys. In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.
1. Use Fullscreen Exclusive Mode
Many games use Fullscreen Borderless as the default display mode. While this is convenient for switching between apps, it can sometimes cause certain games, like Modern Warfare 2, to crash. As a first step, try changing your display mode to Fullscreen Exclusive. This classic fullscreen mode often resolves crashes caused by the borderless setting.
2. Disable In-Game Overlays
In-game overlays from apps like Discord or GeForce Experience can sometimes interfere with Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, causing it to crash. If you use these overlays, it’s best to turn them off while playing. Below you’ll find steps for disabling overlays on Discord and GeForce Experience. If you use other apps with overlays, be sure to disable those too. Check our article to learn how to disable overlays of different platforms here.
3. Uninstall NVIDIA Broadcast (if applicable)
NVIDIA Broadcast is an app that uses AI to enhance microphone and webcam quality for RTX GPU users. However, because it interacts directly with your audio and video devices, it can sometimes cause MW2 to crash.
4. Disable Xbox Game Bar
The Xbox Game Bar lets you chat and interact with friends across Xbox devices, but it can also clash with some PC games and cause crashes.
5. Change MW2 Launch Options
Although Modern Warfare 2 officially supports only DirectX 12, some users have found that launching the game with DirectX 11 helps prevent crashes. Try this workaround by adding -d3d11 to your launch options:
5.1. For Steam
5.2. For Battle.net
6. Reinstall Graphics Drivers
Your graphics drivers are crucial for playing video games, as they connect the game and your graphics card. Outdated or corrupted drivers (especially some NVIDIA driver versions like 526) have been reported to cause crashes in Modern Warfare 2. If the latest drivers don’t fix the crashes, try installing an older version, like version 516.59. Just follow the steps again and install the older driver instead.
7. Repair Game Files
Missing or corrupted game files can also cause crashes. Both Steam and Battle.net provide built-in tools to scan and fix these files. Use the appropriate method for your game client:
7.1. For Steam
7.2. For Battle.net
8. Update BIOS
Keeping your BIOS firmware updated is important for your system’s overall stability—especially if you’re using overclocked components. An outdated BIOS can sometimes cause crashes in games. To update your BIOS, first find out your motherboard model. Then visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website and download the latest BIOS firmware. Use the official BIOS update utility from your manufacturer to complete the update. Test your game again afterward.
9. Disable XMP Profile
Overclocking your RAM through XMP (or D.O.C.P for AMD systems) lets you run your memory at higher speeds. However, these profiles can sometimes make your system unstable and lead to game crashes. To see if this is the issue, disable your XMP/D.O.C.P profile in your BIOS settings. Check if Modern Warfare 2 continues to crash afterward.
10. Perform a Clean Boot
If none of the above steps have worked, it’s possible that a third-party program in the background is causing interference. Performing a clean boot starts Windows with only the essential services running, helping you find the exact culprit. Many programs—like Logitech G Hub, MSI Afterburner, and others—are known to cause issues with MW2. But any third-party app could be responsible in your case.
