The 0x000000C2 Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), also referred to as the “BAD_POOL_CALLER” error, is a serious system error that indicates a thread in your Windows operating system made a bad pool request. This issue can result in abrupt system crashes, data loss, and instability, affecting both everyday users and IT professionals alike.
Experiencing this error is a sign that something is wrong with your system’s memory allocation processes. It usually appears after a system reboot, a recent hardware or software change, or during the use of specific programs. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed, trustworthy guide on how to identify, diagnose, and resolve the 0x000000C2 BSOD error.
Common Causes of Error 0x000000C2
- Faulty hardware drivers – Especially network, graphic, or audio drivers.
- Corrupted system files – Damaged Windows files can cause improper memory allocation.
- Incompatible software – Recently installed or updated software may conflict with system operations.
- Defective RAM – Physical memory errors can lead to pool allocation problems.
- Malware infection – Viruses or malicious software interfering with system-critical processes.
Step-by-Step Fix for 0x000000C2 BSOD
Below are several proven methods to help address and resolve this issue effectively. These solutions assume basic familiarity with Windows troubleshooting techniques, such as accessing Safe Mode or using command line tools.
1. Boot into Safe Mode
If your system won’t start properly due to the error, boot into Safe Mode:
- Restart your computer and press F8 (for older systems) or interrupt the startup process three times to access Advanced Startup Options.
- Select Safe Mode with Networking.
Safe Mode loads the system with only essential drivers and services, allowing you to troubleshoot without interference.
2. Update or Roll Back Device Drivers
Faulty drivers are a leading cause of this BSOD. To update or roll back drivers:
- Open Device Manager from the Control Panel or by typing it in the Windows search bar.
- Locate any devices with a yellow triangle or any recently updated drivers.
- Right-click and choose Update Driver or Roll Back Driver if the issue began after a recent change.
3. Run System File Checker
Corrupted Windows files can be remedied using the built-in System File Checker:
sfc /scannowTo execute this command:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Enter the above command and press Enter.
- Let the scan run; it may take several minutes.
4. Run Memory Diagnostic Tool
Defective RAM can cause pool allocation errors. Use the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool as follows:
- Type Windows Memory Diagnostic into the search bar and launch the tool.
- Choose “Restart now and check for problems”.
- Wait for the scan to complete and read the results on next boot.
5. Uninstall Problematic Software
If the BSOD started after installing new software, it’s advisable to uninstall it:
- Open Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
- Sort by Installed On to identify recent additions.
- Right-click and choose Uninstall.
6. Scan for Malware
Use Windows Defender or a trusted third-party antivirus tool to perform a full system scan:
- Open your antivirus software and select Full Scan.
- Remove any threats detected.
- Restart the computer and observe if the error persists.
When to Seek Professional Help
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it could point to a deeper hardware problem or require advanced system diagnostics. In these cases, contacting a certified IT technician is strongly recommended. Persistent BSODs may signal failing hardware components or irreparable system corruption.
Preventive Measures
To minimize the risk of encountering this BSOD in the future, consider the following:
- Keep all device drivers regularly updated.
- Install Windows updates without delay.
- Use reliable antivirus software and perform routine scans.
- Back up data regularly using cloud or external storage solutions.
By taking preventative action and addressing warning signs early, users can avoid costly repairs and maintain a stable computing environment. While intimidating at first, the 0x000000C2 error can usually be resolved with systematic troubleshooting and a bit of patience.
