Memory · high

How to fixRAM_MEMORY_LEAK_SYSTEM

System Non-Paged Pool Memory Leak

What this error means

RAM_MEMORY_LEAK_SYSTEM is a high-severity system memory (RAM) problem. The system kernel's non-paged memory pool expands continuously without releasing memory, consuming all physical RAM and causing severe freezes, micro-stutters, and eventual crash/BSOD. The usual suspects are faulty third-party network driver (e.g. Killer Network Control), leak in virtualization helper driver and outdated hardware monitoring software. The steps below are ordered to resolve this efficiently.

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 3 complete
01Disable Windows Network Data Usage monitoring service (NDU)

Disable Windows Network Data Usage monitoring service (NDU).

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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02Update motherboard network drivers

Update motherboard network 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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03Run Poolmon tool to trace the leaking driver

Run Poolmon tool to trace the leaking 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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Possible causes

  • Faulty third-party network driver (e.g. Killer Network Control)
  • Leak in virtualization helper driver
  • Outdated hardware monitoring software