How to fix “BAD_POOL_CALLER”. Step-by-Step Guide

12-Step Guide to Fix Windows Blue Screen Errors

Encountering the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on your Windows computer can be daunting. This guide provides a straightforward, 12-step approach to identify and resolve common causes of BSOD errors, helping you restore your system’s stability.

Key Takeaways

Step	Action	Purpose
1	Disconnect External Devices	Eliminate hardware conflicts causing BSOD.
2	Boot into Safe Mode	Start Windows with minimal drivers to troubleshoot issues.
3	Uninstall Recent Software	Remove newly installed applications that may cause conflicts.
4	Update Windows	Ensure the system has the latest patches and fixes.
5	Update Drivers	Install the latest drivers to maintain hardware compatibility.
6	Check for Malware	Identify and remove malicious software affecting system stability.
7	Test Hardware Components	Diagnose and replace faulty hardware causing errors.
8	Check Disk for Errors	Identify and repair disk-related issues.
9	Run System File Checker (SFC)	Repair corrupted system files.
10	Use Windows Blue Screen Troubleshooter	Utilize built-in tools to diagnose BSOD causes.
11	Perform a System Restore	Revert the system to a previous stable state.
12	Reset Your PC	Reinstall Windows while keeping or removing personal files.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Encountering the BAD_POOL_CALLER error can be frustrating. Often, a simple restart can resolve this issue. Here’s how to do it:

1. Click on the Start menu.
2. Select the Power icon.
3. Choose Restart.

If your system is unresponsive:

• Press and hold the power button until the computer turns off.
• Wait a few seconds.
• Press the power button again to turn it back on.

Step 2: Run an Antivirus Scan

The BAD_POOL_CALLER error can sometimes be triggered by malware or viruses compromising system integrity. Conducting a thorough antivirus scan is essential. Here’s how:

1. Ensure your antivirus software is up-to-date.
2. Disconnect from the internet to prevent new threats during the scan.
3. Perform a full system scan to detect and remove malicious software.
4. After the scan, review the results and follow the recommended actions.
5. Restart your computer to apply any changes.

If you don’t have antivirus software installed, consider the following reputable options:

• Malwarebytes
• Bitdefender
• Kaspersky

Step 3: Undo Recent Changes

The BAD_POOL_CALLER error can often be traced back to recent changes in your system. Reverting these modifications can help resolve the issue. Here’s how:

1. Uninstall Recently Installed Software:
   • Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter.
   • In the list of installed programs, locate any software installed just before the error began.
   • Select the program and click Uninstall.
2. Remove Recent Hardware:
   • Disconnect any new external devices (e.g., USB drives, printers).
   • If you’ve added internal hardware, consider removing or reseating it.
3. Use System Restore:
   • Press Win + R, type rstrui.exe, and press Enter.
   • Follow the prompts to restore your system to a point before the error started.

Step 4: Uninstall Recent Hardware or Software

The BAD_POOL_CALLER error can be triggered by recently added hardware or software that conflicts with existing system components. Removing these additions can help resolve the issue. Here’s how:

1. Uninstall Recent Software:
   • Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter.
   • In the list of installed programs, locate any software installed just before the error began.
   • Select the program and click Uninstall.
2. Remove Recent Hardware:
   • Disconnect any new external devices (e.g., USB drives, printers).
   • If you’ve added internal hardware, consider removing or reseating it.

Step 5: Update Windows

Keeping your Windows operating system up-to-date is essential for system stability and security. Updates often include patches that can resolve known issues, including the BAD_POOL_CALLER error.

How to Check for Updates

1. Click the Start button.
2. Select Settings (the gear icon).
3. Navigate to Update & Security.
4. Click on Windows Update.
5. Press Check for updates.

If updates are available, Windows will download and install them automatically. You may need to restart your computer to complete the installation process.

Expert Advice

In my experience, neglecting system updates can lead to various performance issues. I recall assisting a client who faced recurring system crashes due to an outdated Windows version. After updating the system, the crashes ceased, highlighting the importance of regular updates.

Additional Resources

• For a comprehensive guide on troubleshooting the BAD_POOL_CALLER error, refer to this article: How to Fix Bad Pool Caller Error on Windows 10
• For a step-by-step video tutorial, you might find this helpful:

Regularly updating your system not only fixes existing issues but also enhances security by patching vulnerabilities. Ensure that your system is set to update automatically to stay protected.

Step 6: Update Device Drivers

Ensuring that your device drivers are up-to-date is crucial for system stability and performance. Outdated or corrupted drivers can lead to errors such as the BAD_POOL_CALLER blue screen. Here’s how to update your drivers:

1. Open Device Manager:
   • Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
2. Identify Devices with Outdated Drivers:
   • Look for devices marked with a yellow exclamation mark, indicating potential driver issues.
3. Update Drivers:
   • Right-click on the device and select Update driver.
   • Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will search and install the latest driver if available.
4. Manual Driver Update:
   • If Windows doesn’t find a new driver, visit the device manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver.
   • After downloading, return to Device Manager, right-click the device, and select Update driver.
   • Choose Browse my computer for driver software and navigate to the downloaded driver to install it.

Expert Tip: Always create a system restore point before updating drivers. This precaution allows you to revert to a previous state if the new driver causes unforeseen issues.

For a more streamlined approach, consider using dedicated driver update tools. For instance, EaseUS DriverHandy can easily scan, update, and fix your PC’s drivers, ensuring optimal performance.

In my experience, regularly updating drivers has prevented numerous system errors and maintained system stability. It’s a proactive measure that pays off in the long run.

Step 7: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

Experiencing the BAD_POOL_CALLER error can often be linked to memory issues. To identify and resolve potential memory problems, it’s advisable to run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool.

How to Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type mdsched.exe and press Enter.
3. In the dialog that appears, choose Restart now and check for problems.

Your computer will restart and the diagnostic tool will run automatically. Upon completion, Windows will start and display the test results.

Interpreting the Results

If the diagnostic tool detects memory errors, it’s likely that one or more of your RAM modules are faulty. In such cases:

• Ensure all RAM modules are properly seated.
• Test each module individually to identify the faulty one.
• Consider replacing any defective modules.

Expert Advice

In my experience, even if the Windows Memory Diagnostic doesn’t find issues, it’s beneficial to use third-party tools like MemTest86 for a more comprehensive analysis. Additionally, always ensure your system’s drivers are up-to-date, as outdated drivers can sometimes mimic memory issues.

Recommended Tool

For managing and recovering data, especially after encountering system errors, consider using MiniTool Power Data Recovery. It’s a reliable solution for retrieving lost data due to memory faults or system crashes.

Step 8: Check and Repair Hard Disk Errors

Ensuring the integrity of your hard disk is crucial for system stability. Over time, disk errors can lead to data corruption and system crashes. As an expert in system maintenance, I recommend the following methods to check and repair hard disk errors:

1. Using Windows Built-in Tools

Windows provides a utility called Check Disk (chkdsk) to scan and fix disk errors. Here’s how to use it:

1. Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin).
2. In the command prompt, type chkdsk C: /f /r and press Enter. Replace C: with the drive letter you wish to check.
3. If prompted to schedule the check on the next restart, type Y and press Enter.
4. Restart your computer to allow chkdsk to run.

Note: The /f parameter fixes errors on the disk, while /r locates bad sectors and recovers readable information.

2. Using Third-Party Tools

For a more comprehensive analysis, third-party utilities can offer advanced features. One such tool is MiniTool Partition Wizard, which provides detailed disk diagnostics and repair options.

To use MiniTool Partition Wizard:

1. Download and install the software from the official website.
2. Launch the application and select the disk you want to check.
3. Choose the Check File System option to scan and fix file system errors.
4. For a surface test, select Surface Test to identify and block bad sectors.

Regularly monitoring your hard disk’s health can prevent data loss and maintain system performance. In my experience, combining Windows built-in tools with reputable third-party utilities provides a robust approach to disk maintenance.

Expert Tip: Always back up important data before performing disk repairs. While these tools are designed to fix errors, there’s always a risk of data loss during the process.

For more information on fixing hard disk errors, you can refer to this comprehensive guide: 12 Ways to Fix Bad Pool Caller Blue Screen Error Windows 10/8/7

Step 9: Run System File Checker (SFC)

Ensuring the integrity of your system files is crucial for maintaining a stable and secure Windows environment. The System File Checker (SFC) is a built-in utility that scans for and repairs corrupted or missing system files.

Why Use SFC?

Over time, system files can become corrupted due to various reasons, such as:

• Unexpected shutdowns
• Malware infections
• Hardware failures

Running SFC helps in identifying and rectifying these issues, ensuring your system operates smoothly.

How to Run SFC

1. Open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges:
   • Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin).
   • If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes.
2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:

   sfc /scannow

3. Wait for the scan to complete. This might take some time. Once finished, you’ll receive a message indicating the results:
   • No integrity violations found: Your system files are intact.
   • Found corrupt files and repaired them: SFC identified and fixed issues.
   • Found corrupt files but was unable to fix some: Manual intervention may be required.

Expert Tips

In my experience, if SFC reports that it found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them, it’s advisable to run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool before rerunning SFC. DISM can repair the underlying Windows image, which may resolve issues that SFC cannot fix on its own.

Additional Resources

For a comprehensive guide on using SFC and DISM, refer to Microsoft’s official documentation: Use the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files.

Related Tools

To further enhance your system’s performance and security, consider the following tools:

• MiniTool Partition Wizard: A comprehensive disk partition manager that assists in optimizing disk space and ensuring disk health.
• EaseUS Todo PCTrans: Facilitates seamless data transfer between PCs, ensuring your important files are always accessible.

Regular maintenance using these tools, combined with periodic SFC scans, will help keep your system running efficiently and securely.

Step 10: Use Windows Blue Screen Troubleshooter

Experiencing a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) can be daunting, but Windows provides a built-in tool to help diagnose and resolve these issues. As someone who has navigated numerous system errors, I can attest to the utility of the Windows Blue Screen Troubleshooter.

Accessing the Blue Screen Troubleshooter

1. Press the Windows key and type Get Help.
2. Open the Get Help app from the search results.
3. In the app, type Troubleshoot blue screen error and press Enter.
4. Follow the guided walkthrough to diagnose and fix the issue.

Note: If you’re unable to access the Get Help app, you can run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter online by visiting the Microsoft Support page and typing Troubleshoot blue screen error. Then, follow the guided walkthrough under “Recommended Help”.

Understanding the Causes of BSoD

Blue screen errors can result from various issues, including:

• Faulty hardware
• Corrupted drivers
• Malware infections
• Recent software or hardware changes

In my experience, updating device drivers and ensuring system updates are current can prevent many blue screen errors. Additionally, running regular malware scans is crucial. For comprehensive protection, consider using reputable security software.

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check the Event Viewer for critical errors that occurred around the time of the blue screen. This can provide insights into the cause of the crash.
2. Ensure all hardware components are properly connected and functioning.
3. Disconnect any recently added hardware to determine if it’s causing the issue.

Remember, while the Blue Screen Troubleshooter is a valuable tool, persistent issues may require professional assistance. Always back up your data regularly to prevent loss during troubleshooting.

For a visual guide on troubleshooting BSoD errors, you might find this video helpful:

Step 11: Perform a System Restore

System Restore is a valuable feature in Windows that allows you to revert your computer’s system files and settings to a previous point in time. This can be particularly useful if your system is experiencing issues after installing new software or drivers. It’s important to note that System Restore does not affect your personal files, such as documents or photos.

When to Use System Restore

• After installing software that causes system instability.
• Following driver updates that lead to hardware malfunctions.
• When experiencing unexpected system behavior without a clear cause.

How to Perform a System Restore

1. Click the Start button.
2. Type Create a restore point in the search bar and select it from the results.
3. In the System Properties window, click on the System Protection tab.
4. Click the System Restore button.
5. In the System Restore window, click Next.
6. Select a restore point from the list. Choose one dated before you began experiencing issues.
7. Click Next, then Finish to confirm.
8. Your system will restart to apply the restoration.

For a visual guide, you can refer to the following video:

Expert Advice

As someone who has navigated numerous system issues, I can attest to the effectiveness of System Restore. However, it’s crucial to ensure that System Restore is enabled and that restore points are created regularly. To verify this:

1. Open the System Properties window as described above.
2. Under the System Protection tab, check if protection is set to On for your system drive.
3. If it’s off, select the drive, click Configure, and choose Turn on system protection.

Additionally, while System Restore is a powerful tool, it shouldn’t be your only line of defense. Regular backups are essential. Consider using reliable backup software to safeguard your data. For instance, MiniTool ShadowMaker offers comprehensive backup solutions to protect your files and system.

Remember, while System Restore can resolve many issues, it’s not a substitute for regular system maintenance and updates. Always keep your system updated and perform routine checks to ensure optimal performance.

Step 12: Reset Your PC

Resetting your PC can resolve persistent issues by restoring your system to its default state. This process reinstalls Windows and can either keep or remove your personal files, depending on your choice.

Before You Begin

• Backup Important Data: Ensure all essential files are backed up to an external drive or cloud storage. This precaution prevents data loss during the reset process.
• Note Down Software Keys: For applications requiring activation, record their product keys. Tools like Belarc Advisor can assist in retrieving this information.

Resetting Your PC

1. Click the Start button and select the Settings icon (gear symbol).
2. Navigate to System > Recovery.
3. Under Reset this PC, click Reset PC.
4. Choose one of the following options:
   • Keep my files: Removes apps and settings but retains personal files.
   • Remove everything: Deletes all personal files, apps, and settings.
5. Select the reinstallation method:
   • Cloud download: Downloads a fresh copy of Windows from the internet.
   • Local reinstall: Reinstalls Windows from existing system files on your device.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.

Note: The reset may take some time, and your PC will restart during the process. Ensure it’s connected to a power source to prevent interruptions.

Expert Advice

As someone who has guided numerous users through system resets, I recommend opting for the Cloud download method if you have a stable internet connection. This ensures you receive the latest version of Windows, potentially resolving issues caused by corrupted local files.

Additional Resources

For a visual walkthrough, consider watching the following tutorial:

Related Tools

After resetting your PC, you might need to reinstall essential applications. Here are some tools that can assist you:

• EaseUS Todo PCTrans: Simplifies the transfer of data and applications to your refreshed system.
• MiniTool Partition Wizard: Assists in managing disk partitions effectively post-reset.

Resetting your PC is a significant step. Ensure you’ve taken all necessary precautions and understand the implications of each option before proceeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)?

   The Blue Screen of Death, often abbreviated as BSOD, is a critical error screen displayed by Windows operating systems when a system fault occurs, preventing safe operation. This can result from hardware failures, driver issues, or software conflicts.

2. How can I identify the cause of a BSOD?

   To determine the cause of a BSOD, you can:

   • Note the error code displayed during the BSOD.
   • Check the Event Viewer for system logs related to the crash.
   • Analyze memory dump files using tools like WinDbg.

   These steps can help pinpoint the underlying issue.

3. Is updating drivers essential for preventing BSODs?

   Yes, keeping drivers updated is crucial. Outdated or corrupt drivers can lead to system instability and BSODs. Regularly updating drivers ensures compatibility and enhances system performance.

4. Can malware cause BSODs?

   Malicious software can compromise system stability, leading to BSODs. It’s advisable to use reputable antivirus solutions to detect and remove malware. For instance, Malwarebytes is a trusted tool for this purpose.

5. What should I do before performing a System Restore?

   Before initiating a System Restore:

   • Back up important data to prevent potential loss.
   • Ensure all ongoing tasks are saved and closed.
   • Be aware that recent software installations may be affected.

   These precautions help ensure a smooth restoration process.

6. Will resetting my PC remove all my files?

   When resetting your PC, you typically have two options:

   • Keep my files: This retains personal files but removes apps and settings.
   • Remove everything: This removes all personal files, apps, and settings.

   Choose the option that best suits your needs, and always back up important data beforehand.

7. How often should I check for Windows updates?

   It’s recommended to check for Windows updates regularly, preferably once a week. Enabling automatic updates ensures your system receives critical patches and improvements promptly.

8. Can hardware issues cause BSODs?

   Faulty hardware components, such as failing RAM or overheating CPUs, can trigger BSODs. Regular hardware diagnostics can help identify and address these issues.

9. Is it safe to use third-party tools for system optimization?

   While some third-party tools can enhance system performance, it’s essential to choose reputable ones. For example, MiniTool Partition Wizard is a trusted utility for disk management.

10. What is the role of System File Checker (SFC) in troubleshooting?

    The System File Checker (SFC) is a utility that scans and repairs corrupted system files. Running the sfc /scannow command can help resolve issues that might lead to BSODs.

11. How does Safe Mode assist in troubleshooting BSODs?

    Safe Mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services. If a BSOD doesn’t occur in Safe Mode, it’s likely that a background program or driver is causing the issue, aiding in pinpointing the problem.

12. Can insufficient disk space lead to BSODs?

    Yes, inadequate disk space can cause system instability. It’s advisable to maintain at least 10-15% of your disk space free to ensure smooth system operations.

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