DRIVER_CORRUPTED_EXPOOL (0x000000C5): The Ultimate Fix Guide to Stop the Blue Screen Mayhem

What is BSOD Error Code 0x000000C5?

The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with error code 0x000000C5, also known by its symbolic name DRIVER_CORRUPTED_EXPOOL, occurs when the system attempts to access invalid memory at a process IRQL (Interrupt Request Level) that is too high. In simple terms, this means a driver has performed an operation at an improper priority level, leading to system instability and crashes.

This is a critical Windows kernel error that typically indicates a driver-related memory corruption issue. If not resolved, this error may continue to crash your system repeatedly.

What Causes the DRIVER_CORRUPTED_EXPOOL Error?

Understanding the root causes can help you identify and fix the trigger. The most common causes include:

1. Faulty or Corrupt Device Drivers

Poorly written or corrupted drivers, particularly for network adapters, graphics cards, or third-party peripherals, are a leading cause.

2. Incompatible or Buggy Software

Certain software applications that install low-level drivers (such as antivirus programs, VPNs, or performance tools) can cause instability.

3. Memory Access Violations

Drivers attempting to access memory they do not own or at an invalid IRQL level often lead to this stop code.

4. Hardware Issues

Faulty RAM, overheating components, or failing hard drives can cause improper memory access, triggering this error.

5. Overclocking or BIOS Modifications

Manual changes to CPU, RAM, or GPU speeds can lead to timing errors that cause kernel crashes.

6. Problematic Windows Updates

Sometimes a Windows update may introduce a bug or conflict with an existing driver, resulting in the BSOD.

How to Fix BSOD 0x000000C5 (DRIVER_CORRUPTED_EXPOOL)

Follow these step-by-step methods to resolve and prevent this critical error:

Step 1: Boot Into Safe Mode

If your system is stuck in a reboot loop:

• Hold Shift while clicking Restart from the login screen.
• Navigate to: Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart
• Press 4 to boot into Safe Mode.

Step 2: Use Windows Driver Verifier

This tool helps detect problematic drivers.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type: verifier
3. Choose “Create custom settings”.
4. Enable:
   
   • Special Pool
   • Force IRQL Checking
   • Pool Tracking
   • I/O Verification
   • Deadlock Detection
5. Select “Select driver names from a list” and choose all non-Microsoft drivers.
6. Reboot your system.

If a BSOD appears again, take note of the driver name mentioned, reboot in Safe Mode, and run verifier /reset.

Step 3: Update or Roll Back Drivers

Access Device Manager:

• Right-click Start > Device Manager
• Look for devices with yellow exclamation marks
• Right-click the device > Update driver or Roll back driver

Pay particular attention to:

• Network adapters
• Graphics cards
• Chipset drivers
• USB controllers

Visit the manufacturer’s official website for the latest versions.

Step 4: Remove Recently Installed Software

Uninstall any newly added programs or tools that may have installed kernel-level drivers:

• Antivirus or antimalware tools
• VPN applications
• System tweaking software
• Gaming peripheral utilities

Use the Run command appwiz.cpl to access Programs and Features quickly.

Step 5: Run a Memory Check

Use Windows Memory Diagnostic:

• Type mdsched.exe into the Run dialog.
• Choose “Restart now and check for problems”.

Alternatively, use MemTest86+ for a more comprehensive test.

Step 6: Check for System File Corruption

Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:

bash

CopyEdit

sfc /scannow

‍

Then run:

swift

CopyEdit

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

‍

These tools repair corrupted or missing system files that may cause kernel-level errors.

Step 7: Reset BIOS/UEFI and Disable Overclocking

Enter BIOS during startup (typically by pressing DEL, F2, or ESC).

• Restore default settings
• Disable any overclocking profiles

Step 8: Install All Windows Updates

Go to:
Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
Download and install any pending updates, including driver patches and security improvements.

Step 9: Use System Restore

If the error began recently:

• Press Windows + R > type rstrui > press Enter
• Select a restore point from before the issue began

Step 10: Clean Install Windows (Last Resort)

If none of the above steps work:

• Back up your important files
• Reinstall Windows using a bootable USB drive

Tips to Prevent 0x000000C5 BSOD in the Future

• Keep device drivers up to date via official manufacturer websites
• Avoid unverified “driver updater” utilities
• Monitor hardware temperatures with tools like HWMonitor
• Avoid overclocking unless absolutely necessary
• Remove unused drivers and peripherals
• Run regular antivirus and antimalware scans

Final Thoughts

The DRIVER_CORRUPTED_EXPOOL (0x000000C5) error is a serious system-level issue, often caused by rogue drivers or memory corruption. With careful troubleshooting using the above steps, you can isolate the cause, fix the error, and restore system stability.

If the issue persists, consider analyzing the memory dump files or contacting a professional technician for further help.

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