How to Resolve the Bad Pool Header Error (Fix for 0x00000019 Bad Pool Header)

How to Resolve the Bad Pool Header Error (Fix for 0x00000019 Bad Pool Header)

The Bad Pool Header error, also known as error code 0x00000019, is a Windows Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) issue that typically occurs when there’s a problem with memory management, corrupted files, incompatible drivers, or faulty hardware. This error can disrupt your workflow, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve it and prevent future occurrences. Here are several methods to fix the Bad Pool Header error.

1. Restart Your Computer in Safe Mode

Safe Mode allows Windows to start with minimal drivers and services, making it easier to identify and fix issues like the Bad Pool Header error.

• Restart in Safe Mode: Click Start > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Advanced Startup > Restart Now.
• Select Safe Mode: After rebooting, choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart. Press 4 to boot into Safe Mode.

Suggested Image: A screenshot of the Windows Advanced Startup options, highlighting the selection for Safe Mode.

2. Check for Windows Updates

Outdated system files or software can cause the Bad Pool Header error. Ensuring that Windows is updated to the latest version can help resolve the problem.

• Update Windows: Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Click Check for updates to install any available updates.

Suggested Image: A screenshot of the Windows Update page, showing the “Check for updates” button.

3. Update Device Drivers

Incompatible or outdated drivers can cause memory management issues, leading to the Bad Pool Header error. Updating drivers often resolves these conflicts.

• Open Device Manager: Right-click on Start and select Device Manager.
• Update Drivers: Expand categories such as Display adapters or Network adapters, right-click on each device, and select Update driver. Choose Search automatically for drivers to allow Windows to find the latest driver.

Suggested Image: A screenshot of the Device Manager with the option to update a driver highlighted.

4. Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

The Bad Pool Header error can sometimes stem from faulty memory (RAM). The Windows Memory Diagnostic tool will check for any issues in your computer’s memory.

• Run Memory Diagnostic: Type Windows Memory Diagnostic in the search bar and select it. Choose Restart now and check for problems. Windows will reboot and begin a diagnostic scan.
• Check Results: After the scan, log in to Windows, and the results will appear on your screen. If no issues are detected, try the next solution.

Suggested Image: A screenshot of the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool with the option to “Restart now and check for problems.”

5. Disable Fast Startup

Windows’ Fast Startup feature, while useful for speeding up boot times, can sometimes cause BSOD errors like Bad Pool Header.

• Disable Fast Startup: Go to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do > Change settings that are currently unavailable. Uncheck Turn on fast startup and click Save changes.

Suggested Image: A screenshot of the Power Options settings with the “Turn on fast startup” option unchecked.

6. Use the Check Disk Tool to Repair Corrupted Files

The Check Disk (chkdsk) tool scans for and repairs file system errors that could be causing the Bad Pool Header error.

• Run Check Disk: Open Command Prompt as an administrator by typing cmd in the search bar, right-clicking it, and selecting Run as administrator. Type chkdsk /f and press Enter. Confirm with Y to schedule the scan on the next reboot.
• Restart Your Computer: Restart your computer to allow the chkdsk tool to scan and repair any corrupted files.

Suggested Image: A screenshot of the Command Prompt with the chkdsk command entered.

7. Uninstall Recently Installed Software or Hardware

If the Bad Pool Header error started after installing new software or hardware, it could be the cause of the issue. Uninstall it to see if the error resolves.

• Uninstall Software: Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features. Select the recently installed software and click Uninstall.
• Remove Hardware: If you recently added hardware, shut down your computer, remove it, and restart to see if the error is resolved.

Suggested Image: A screenshot of the Programs and Features window with an uninstall option highlighted.

8. Perform a System Restore

If none of the above solutions work, performing a System Restore can return your computer to a previous state before the error occurred.

• Open System Restore: Type System Restore in the search bar and select Create a restore point. Click System Restore and follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point.
• Restore Your System: Choose a restore point from a date before the error started and click Next. Your computer will restart with the settings from that point.

Suggested Image: A screenshot of the System Restore window showing available restore points.

Conclusion

The Bad Pool Header (0x00000019) error can be disruptive, but by following these troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue and prevent it from recurring. Start with basic checks, such as updating Windows and drivers, then proceed to more advanced solutions like running memory diagnostics or performing a system restore. By systematically going through each step, you can restore your Windows system to full functionality and reduce the chances of encountering the error in the future.