Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Error Code 0x000000C5

0x000000C5 Error: DRIVER_CORRUPTER_DETECTED_VIOLATION BSOD in Windows

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What is the 0x000000C5 Error?


This error indicates that a kernel-mode driver performed unsafe memory operations such as writing to unauthorized memory regions, accessing freed memory, or corrupting internal system structures. Windows immediately stops execution to prevent further memory damage and system instability. This BSOD is commonly triggered by faulty drivers, corrupted system files, unstable hardware, or conflicts with kernel-level third-party software.

Causes

  • Faulty or Misbehaving Drivers: Drivers performing illegal memory access or corrupting kernel memory.
  • Memory Pool Corruption: Drivers writing beyond allocated memory or using freed memory incorrectly.
  • System File Corruption: Damaged or missing Windows system files affecting driver execution.
  • Third-Party Utility Conflicts: Antivirus software, virtualization tools, debugging utilities, or overclocking programs interfering with kernel processes.
  • Defective RAM or Hardware Faults: Physical memory errors or unstable hardware components.
  • Incorrect BIOS or UEFI Settings: Overclocked CPU/RAM, unstable memory timings, or outdated firmware.

Resolution Steps




1. Disable Driver Verifier (If Enabled)

Boot into Safe Mode.

Open Command Prompt (Admin).

Run: verifier /reset

Restart your PC to disable Driver Verifier and stop aggressive driver monitoring.

2. Update or Roll Back Drivers

Open Device Manager.

Update outdated drivers using official manufacturer websites.

Roll back recently installed drivers if the error started after a driver update.

Focus on graphics, chipset, network, and storage drivers.

3. Repair Corrupted System Files

Open Command Prompt (Admin).

Run: sfc /scannow

After completion, run:

Run: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Restart the system after both scans complete.

4. Test RAM for Memory Issues

Open Run dialog.

Run: mdsched.exe

Restart the system and allow the memory scan to complete.

Test RAM sticks individually if errors are detected.

Replace faulty memory modules if necessary.

5. Uninstall Conflicting Third-Party Software

Boot into Safe Mode.

Uninstall recently added or kernel-level software such as:

Overclocking utilities

Virtualization software

Debugging tools

Antivirus or endpoint security software

Restart normally and check system stability.

6. Check Disk and File System Integrity

Open Command Prompt (Admin).

Run: chkdsk C: /f /r /x

Restart the system and allow the disk scan to finish.

7. Reset BIOS/UEFI Settings

Enter BIOS/UEFI during system startup.

Select Load Optimized Defaults.

Disable all CPU and RAM overclocking.

Save changes and exit.

8. Perform a Clean Boot

Press Windows + R.

Run: msconfig

Hide all Microsoft services and disable the remaining services.

Open Task Manager and disable all startup applications.

Restart the system and monitor behavior.

9. Install Latest Windows Updates and Firmware

Open Windows Update.

Install all available updates, including optional driver updates.

Update motherboard BIOS/UEFI to the latest stable version.

10. Perform an In-Place Upgrade or Clean Install

Use the Windows Installation Media Tool.

Choose Upgrade this PC now to repair Windows without data loss.

If the BSOD persists, back up files and perform a clean installation.

Conclusion

The 0x000000C5 (DRIVER_CORRUPTER_DETECTED_VIOLATION) BSOD is primarily caused by driver memory corruption, faulty hardware, or kernel-level software conflicts.

To resolve the issue:

Disable Driver Verifier if enabled.

Update or roll back unstable drivers.

Repair system files using SFC and DISM.

Test RAM and verify disk health.

Remove conflicting third-party utilities.

Reset BIOS/UEFI settings and install all updates.

If the problem continues, performing an in-place upgrade or clean installation ensures complete resolution of deep driver or memory-related issues.

By maintaining stable drivers, healthy memory, and a clean system environment, you can permanently eliminate the 0x000000C5 BSOD and restore long-term Windows reliability.

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