1. Update or Roll Back Device Drivers
- Open Device Manager and update outdated or unstable drivers.
- Download official drivers from the hardware manufacturer’s website.
- Roll back recent driver updates if the BSOD started after installation.
2. Repair Corrupted System Files
- Open Command Prompt (Admin).
- Run: sfc /scannow
- Run: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Restart after both scans finish.
3. Test RAM and Check for Memory Corruption
- Run Windows Memory Diagnostic (mdsched.exe).
- Restart the PC and let it scan for memory issues.
- Test RAM sticks individually if errors are detected.
- Replace any defective memory modules.
4. Remove Problematic Third-Party Software
- Boot into Safe Mode using F8 or Shift + F8.
- Uninstall recently added:
- VPN clients
- Antivirus programs
- Overclocking utilities
- Hardware monitoring tools
- Restart normally to check stability.
5. Check Disk and File System Integrity
- Open Command Prompt (Admin).
- Run: chkdsk C: /f /r /x
- Restart and allow the disk check to complete.
- Repairs file system corruption contributing to pool errors.
6. Reset BIOS/UEFI Settings
- Enter BIOS/UEFI (DEL, F2, or ESC during startup).
- Select Load Optimized Defaults.
- Disable any overclocking or XMP profiles.
- Save and exit.
7. Perform a Clean Boot
- Press Windows + R - type msconfig.
- Hide all Microsoft services - Disable all.
- Disable startup programs through Task Manager.
- Reboot and test system behavior under minimal load.
8. Scan for Malware
- Use Windows Defender or a reputable antivirus program.
- Perform a Full Scan of the system.
- Remove any threats attempting to manipulate kernel memory.
9. Install the Latest Windows Updates and Firmware
- Go to Windows Update and install available security patches.
- Install optional driver updates.
- Update motherboard BIOS/firmware to ensure hardware compatibility.
10. Perform an In-Place Upgrade or Clean Install
- Use the Windows Installation Media Tool.
- Choose Upgrade this PC now to repair Windows while keeping personal files.
- If the BSOD still occurs, perform a clean installation after backing up data.
The 0x000000C2 (BAD_POOL_CALLER) BSOD usually results from faulty drivers, memory corruption, or invalid kernel memory operations.
To fix it:
- Update/rollback drivers and repair corrupted system files.
- Test RAM and resolve memory-related issues.
- Remove conflicting software and reset BIOS/UEFI settings.
- Install all Windows updates and perform disk/registry repairs.
If issues persist, an in-place upgrade or clean installation will restore system integrity and eliminate deep-seated corruption.
By addressing pool inconsistencies, securing memory operations, and maintaining verified drivers, you can effectively eliminate the 0x000000C2 BSOD and ensure long-term Windows stability.