Fix Windows 10 Blue Screen Caused by Adobe Acrobat Updates
Question details
Users are encountering Windows 10 blue screen of death (BSOD) errors related to AdobePDF.dll after installing Windows cumulative updates with Adobe Acrobat DC present.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat DC
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Installing Windows 10 cumulative updates on a system that currently has Adobe Acrobat DC installed.
- Observed behavior
- The computer experiences repeated blue screens (BSOD) crashing on the AdobePDF.dll file due to a revoked certificate.
Ensure you have saved all ongoing work on other devices if needed, and be prepared to boot your computer into Safe Mode if the blue screen prevents you from accessing the normal Windows desktop.
Install Windows Update KB4550945
Microsoft has released a specific patch to resolve the revoked certificate issue associated with AdobePDF.dll.
This issue is caused by a conflict between previous cumulative updates and a revoked certificate inside the AdobePDF.dll file. Microsoft's KB4550945 update directly addresses this compatibility issue, restoring system stability.
Click the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Settings, or press the Windows Key + I on your keyboard.
Click on 'Update & Security' and select 'Windows Update' from the left-hand menu.
Click the 'Check for updates' button. Look for 'Cumulative Update for Windows 10 (KB4550945)' or later, and click 'Download and install'.
If the update does not appear automatically, go to the Microsoft Update Catalog website, search for 'KB4550945', and download the version matching your system architecture (e.g., x64).
Once the installation is complete, click 'Restart now' to apply the changes and test for further blue screens.
Avoid System Crashes with a Lightweight Alternative
Tired of heavy software causing system instability and blue screens? WPS Office offers a built-in, lightweight PDF reader and editor that is fully compatible with standard PDF files, without relying on background services that drain resources or crash your PC.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office on your Windows 10 PC.
- 3. Open PDFs Securely: Right-click any PDF file, select 'Open with', and choose WPS Office to view and edit your documents safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does AdobePDF.dll cause a blue screen on Windows 10?
The crash occurs because of a conflict between recent Windows 10 cumulative updates and a revoked security certificate associated with the AdobePDF.dll file, causing the operating system to forcefully halt to protect system integrity.
Can I temporarily fix the blue screen by uninstalling Adobe Acrobat?
Yes, if you boot into Safe Mode and uninstall Adobe Acrobat DC, the AdobePDF.dll file will be removed, stopping the immediate blue screens. However, installing the KB4550945 update is the recommended permanent fix so you can continue using PDF software.
What should I do if my computer restarts before I can install the update?
If you are caught in a boot loop, restart your computer and press F8 (or Shift + Restart from the login screen) to enter the Advanced Startup Options. Boot into 'Safe Mode with Networking' to safely download and install the KB4550945 update.
Is WPS Office a safe alternative for viewing PDFs on Windows 10?
Yes, WPS Office includes a fast and secure PDF viewer and editor. It operates entirely as a user-level application and does not hook into deep system processes like AdobePDF.dll, making it much less likely to cause a Windows 10 blue screen.
