nvpcf.sys Error with Windows Update KB5048685 and NVIDIA Drivers on Acer Laptop – Need Help!

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LeeUk2025
LeeUk2025 Member Posts: 4 New User
edited January 1 in Aspire Laptops

Hello everyone,

I’m dealing with a frustrating issue on my Acer laptop and hope someone can offer a solution.

System Details:

  • Brand/Model: Acer NHQBKEK005XXXXX (SNID: XXXX)
  • Processor: 11th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-11300H @ 3.10GHz (3.11 GHz)
  • Installed RAM: 8 GB (7.80 GB usable)
  • System Type: 64-bit operating system, x64-based processor
  • OS Edition: Windows 11 Home

The Problem:

I keep encountering the nvpcf.sys error under the following circumstances:

  1. After installing the 2024-12 Cumulative Update for Windows 11 Version 23H2 (KB5048685).
  2. When reinstalling or updating NVIDIA drivers to the latest version.

The error details are:

Stop Code: DRIVER_UNLOADED_WITHOUT_CANCELLING_PENDING_OPERATIONS
What failed: nvpcf.sys

When the NVIDIA drivers are running without the Windows update, my laptop functions perfectly, indicating the issue is tied directly to the Windows update (KB5048685).

Steps I’ve Taken So Far:

  1. Uninstalled KB5048685 – Laptop works fine, but I’m stuck with outdated system updates.
  2. Reinstalled KB5048685 – Encountered the same nvpcf.sys error upon reinstalling NVIDIA drivers.
  3. Removed NVIDIA drivers completely using DDU in Safe Mode and reinstalled them – The issue persists after applying the Windows update.

My Concerns:

At the moment, I’m forced to run outdated drivers to avoid crashes. This isn’t ideal, as outdated drivers expose my system to potential security vulnerabilities, putting me at risk of malicious exploitation.

What I Need Help With:

  1. How can I resolve this compatibility issue between KB5048685 and NVIDIA drivers?
  2. Is there an official acknowledgment of this problem or a timeline for when it will be fixed?

I rely heavily on my laptop for work, and this issue is significantly impacting my productivity. I’d appreciate any advice or updates regarding this matter.

Thank you for your time and support!

[Edited the thread to hide sensitive information]

Best Answer

  • JackE
    JackE ACE Posts: 45,225 Trailblazer
    edited January 1 Answer ✓

    Automated updating, even for Acer specific drivers, is usually now handled by Windows update service. However, sometimes they cause issues and have to be reverted back to the original drivers using the automatic restore point app. The Acer Care Center app sometimes offers some auto updating capability depending on the model and factory release date.

    Jack E/NJ

Answers

  • JackE
    JackE ACE Posts: 45,225 Trailblazer
    edited January 1

    » >At the moment, I’m forced to run outdated drivers to avoid crashes. This isn’t ideal, as outdated drivers expose my system to potential security vulnerabilities, putting me at risk of malicious exploitation.> >

    Not in this case. You should be using the Acer proprietary version of the nvidia drivers for your proprietary Acer mainboard, not the generic nvidia drivers just because they may have later release dates. The generic drivers, part of which are the nv*.sys files are not meant to be used on your OEM mainboard.

    Jack E/NJ

  • LeeUk2025
    LeeUk2025 Member Posts: 4 New User
    https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/comment/1317507#Comment_1317507

    Thank you for your suggestion, but I’d like to clarify a few points and ask for further guidance.

    1. Using Acer’s Proprietary NVIDIA Drivers:

    If I understand correctly, you’re suggesting I rely solely on the NVIDIA drivers provided by Acer for my specific laptop model, as these are tailored for the proprietary Acer mainboard. Could you provide steps for implementing this change? For example:

    Should I manually download the drivers from Acer's support page?

    If so, how do I ensure these drivers remain updated, given they are often released less frequently than the official NVIDIA drivers?

    2. Long-Term Considerations:

    While I understand your point about compatibility, I opted for a laptop with NVIDIA hardware to leverage features like gaming performance, CUDA support for productivity tasks, and access to frequent updates directly from NVIDIA. Limiting myself to proprietary drivers might hinder performance or leave my system vulnerable if Acer stops providing updates.

    Does this approach guarantee stability for future Windows updates?

    Is there a known solution to make the generic NVIDIA drivers work reliably with my system?

    My goal is to resolve the current issue while maintaining the functionality I paid for when purchasing a laptop with NVIDIA hardware. If Acer-provided drivers are the only option, does this compromise long-term usability and security?

    I appreciate your input and would love to hear more details on how this recommendation ensures a stable and functional setup moving forward.

  • JackE
    JackE ACE Posts: 45,225 Trailblazer

    Use the Acer driver downloads page and sometimes the Microsoft store specifically designed for your Nitro's mainboard. The Acer versions of the nvidia drivers are usually only updated to fix problems that might arise with Windows updates. This can include security and functionalty issues though I'm not specifically aware of any for the AN517-53. However, while we're not Acer employees or reps on these Acer user forums, I can say that there are no 100% guarantees that you will not experience problems or issues by taking this approach. just that they are less likely to happen than simply using a file date stamp as your guide. Good luck.🙂

    Jack E/NJ

  • LeeUk2025
    LeeUk2025 Member Posts: 4 New User
    https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/comment/1317516#Comment_1317516

    Thank you again for your detailed response and helpful suggestions!

    While I understand the logic behind using Acer-specific drivers, I’d still prefer an automated solution to handle these updates rather than checking manually, is that possible?

    I’ll leave the question open for now to see if anyone else has suggestions or insights on automating the process or resolving the conflict more effectively.

    Thanks again for your time and support—it’s much appreciated.

  • JackE
    JackE ACE Posts: 45,225 Trailblazer
    edited January 1 Answer ✓

    Automated updating, even for Acer specific drivers, is usually now handled by Windows update service. However, sometimes they cause issues and have to be reverted back to the original drivers using the automatic restore point app. The Acer Care Center app sometimes offers some auto updating capability depending on the model and factory release date.

    Jack E/NJ

  • LeeUk2025
    LeeUk2025 Member Posts: 4 New User
    https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/comment/1317526#Comment_1317526

    Thank you so much, JackE, for taking the time to explain and provide such helpful advice. I really appreciate your insights, especially regarding the Acer Care Center app and its potential for driver updates. I'll definitely keep an eye on it alongside the Acer support page as part of my regular maintenance routine.

    I’ll also make sure to utilize the System Restore feature to safeguard against any future issues with updates. Your detailed guidance has been incredibly helpful, and I’ll go ahead and mark this thread as answered.

    Thanks again for your support—it’s much appreciated!

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