Windows & BSOD · critical

How to fix0x000000C1

SPECIAL_POOL_DETECTED_MEMORY_CORRUPTION

What this error means

SPECIAL_POOL_DETECTED_MEMORY_CORRUPTION is a critical-severity Windows operating system issue. A special pool driver check detected that a kernel driver wrote to memory outside its allocated block. This is a critical RAM integrity BSOD. Commonly caused by driver memory leaks, incompatible chipset drivers, or faulty RAM. This can also stem from registry database corruption. Work through the steps below in order.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 4 complete
01Run Windows Driver Verifier to locate the culprit driver

Run Windows Driver Verifier to locate the culprit driver.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Disable XMP/EXPO memory profiles in BIOS

Disable XMP/EXPO memory profiles in BIOS.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Run Windows Memory Diagnostic tool

Run Windows Memory Diagnostic tool.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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04Update motherboard chipset and LAN drivers

Update motherboard chipset and LAN drivers.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • Corrupted kernel-mode driver writing outside boundaries
  • Unstable RAM or memory controller voltage
  • Incompatible software drivers (especially antivirus/firewall)
  • Registry database corruption

Useful Windows tools

These commands open Windows tools. Review any action inside the tool before applying changes.

mdsched.exe