Your computer crashes when you run a program that uses sound if your system uses a Realtek AC'97 Audio device with Windows XP

Your computer may crash unexpectedly while it is running a program, such as a game, that uses sound.

This problem may occur if your system uses a Realtek AC'97 Audio device and if the wrong driver is installed for the device.

To resolve this problem, install the latest version of the driver that is offered by Microsoft Windows Update. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Click Start, point to All Programs, and then click Windows Update.
2. Click Scan for updates.
3. In the left pane, click Windows XP.
4. In the right pane, under Recommended Updates, find Windows XP Driver for Realtek AC'97 Audio driver, and then click Add.
5. Click Review and install updates.
6. Click Install Now.
7. Read the terms of the license agreement, and then click I accept to start the driver installation.

Revert to the previously installed driver

If the device fails after you install the new driver, you can use the Roll Back Driver feature to revert to the previously installed driver for the device. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Right-click My Computer, and then click Properties.
2. Click the Hardware tab, and then click Device Manager.
3. Expand Sound, Video and Game Controllers.
4. Right-click the Realtek AC’97 Audio driver, and then click Properties.
5. Click the Driver tab, and then click Roll Back Driver.