How to fix “BAD_POOL_HEADER”. Free immediate support

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How to fix “BAD_POOL_HEADER”. Free immediate support






How to Fix the BAD_POOL_HEADER Error in Windows

The BAD_POOL_HEADER error is a common blue screen issue in Windows, caused by hardware or software conflicts, outdated drivers, or faulty RAM or disk drives. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to resolve it, including unplugging external devices, updating drivers, performing clean boots, and running system diagnostics. Learn how to troubleshoot effectively with tools like EaseUS and MiniTool, recommended for recovery and hardware checks. Use our free chatbot for further help in solving technical issues.

Key Takeaways:

  1. What is BAD_POOL_HEADER?
    The BAD_POOL_HEADER error is a blue screen issue in Windows systems, often caused by hardware or software conflicts, outdated drivers, or faulty RAM or disk drives.

  2. How to Fix It?
    The solution involves systematically isolating the problem by removing external devices, updating drivers, performing clean boots, and potentially reinstalling Windows.

  3. Tools You Can Use:

  • Diagnostic tools for RAM and disk drive issues.
  • EaseUS and MiniTool solutions for system recovery and backups.

(Affiliate links to reliable tools are embedded throughout the guide for your convenience.)

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix the BAD_POOL_HEADER Error

1. Unplug External Devices

External devices can sometimes cause the BAD_POOL_HEADER error due to hardware conflicts. Follow these steps:

  • Disconnect all USB devices, external storage, printers, webcams, etc.
  • Restart the computer and see if the error persists.
  • Reconnect devices one by one to isolate the problematic hardware.

2. Undo Recent Changes

If the error started after a recent change, revert it:

  1. Uninstall any new software from the Control Panel.
  2. Physically remove any newly installed hardware.
  3. Check if the issue is resolved.

3. Temporarily Disable Third-Party Antivirus

  • Many antivirus or endpoint protection solutions are known to interfere with system operations.
  • Temporarily disable your antivirus program or uninstall it completely if necessary.
  • Restart your computer to verify if the error is resolved.

Recommended software to manage antivirus:
Use Malwarebytes Premium for real-time protection once the issue is fixed.

4. Update Windows and Programs

Outdated system files and applications can trigger the BAD_POOL_HEADER error.

To Update Windows:

  • Press Windows + I to open settings.
  • Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Click Check for Updates.

To Update Software:

Navigate to the specific software’s official website (or use an updater).
Expert Tip: Use a dedicated program updater like EaseUS DriverHandy to ensure all drivers are updated effortlessly.

5. Update Hardware Drivers

Outdated drivers are a leading cause of BSODs. Update your hardware drivers:

  1. Open Device Manager (Windows + X > Device Manager).
  2. Expand categories (e.g., Display Adapters, Network Adapters).
  3. Right-click each item and select Update Driver.

For automated driver management, consider using EaseUS DriverHandy.

6. Check and Fix Disk Drive Issues

Corrupted disk sectors or failing drives may contribute to this error.

Steps to Run Disk Check:

  1. Open Command Prompt (Windows + R, then type cmd).
  2. Execute the command: 
    chkdsk C: /f /r
  3. Follow prompts to schedule the check on the next reboot.

Alternatively, use professional tools like MiniTool Partition Wizard to manage and repair disks.

7. Disable the Windows Indexing Service

Some users report that disabling the indexing service resolves this issue.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and click OK.
  2. Locate Windows Search or Indexing Service.
  3. Right-click and select Properties.
  4. Change startup type to Disabled and click OK.

8. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot can isolate software conflicts.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R and type msconfig.
  2. Under the General tab, select Selective startup and uncheck Load startup items.
  3. Navigate to the Services tab, click Hide all Microsoft services, and disable others.
  4. Reboot your system.

If successful, re-enable services one by one to identify the culprit.

9. Run a System Restore

If the error began recently, revert your system back to an earlier state:

  1. Search for Create a Restore Point in Windows.
  2. In the window, click System Restore.
  3. Choose a restore point prior to the error’s first occurrence.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

10. Check for Faulty Hardware

Faulty RAM or hard drives are common culprits.

RAM Scan:

  1. Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
  2. Choose Restart now and check for problems.

For a deeper scan, consider tools like Ultimate Boot CD.

Disk Drive Diagnostic:

Use advanced tools like MiniTool ShadowMaker for backup and testing.

11. Reset Your PC

This restores system functionality without manually diagnosing issues.

How to Reset:

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
  2. Under Reset this PC, click Get Started.
  3. Choose whether to preserve or delete files.

Expert Advice: Back up important data with EaseUS Backup Center before proceeding.

12. Reinstall Windows

As a last resort, reinstall Windows:

  1. Back up your files using MiniTool Power Data Recovery.
  2. Download the official Windows ISO using the Microsoft Media Creation Tool.
  3. Create a bootable USB and reinstall Windows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What Causes the BAD_POOL_HEADER Error?

This error can be caused by:

  • Corrupt drivers.
  • Faulty hardware (RAM, hard disk).
  • Software conflicts.
  • Malware or third-party antivirus interruptions.

2. How Can I Prevent the BAD_POOL_HEADER Error in the Future?

To avoid encountering this issue:

3. Can a Failing Hard Drive Cause the BAD_POOL_HEADER Error?

Yes, a failing or corrupted hard drive can cause the error. Use diagnostic scans to test the drive’s health.

4. Is Disabling the Antivirus Safe?

Disabling the antivirus temporarily is safe if done offline. Re-enable or use a trusted program like Malwarebytes Premium after troubleshooting.

By following the steps above and leveraging the recommended tools, you can effectively resolve the BAD_POOL_HEADER error for good!

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