How to Solve Windows Error Code "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" (0x00000018)

How to Solve Windows Error Code "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" (0x00000018)

The "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error, represented by the error code 0x00000018, is a type of Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) in Windows. To solve this issue, follow these steps systematically:

1. Check for hardware issues: Since this error is often related to hardware problems, start by examining your RAM. Use a memory diagnostic tool like Windows Memory Diagnostic or MemTest86 to check for any faults. If a problem is found, replace the faulty RAM module.
2. Update or rollback drivers: Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause this error. Go to the Device Manager, find the drivers related to your hardware, and update them to the latest version. Alternatively, if you recently updated your drivers, consider rolling back to a previous version.
3. Run System File Checker (SFC): The SFC tool can repair corrupted system files. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the command sfc /scannow. If it finds and fixes errors, restart your computer and check if the problem persists.
4. Check for BIOS updates: An outdated BIOS can also cause this error. Visit your computer or motherboard manufacturer's website to download and install the latest BIOS update.
5. Perform a clean boot: To eliminate software conflicts, perform a clean boot. This starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. If the error does not occur during a clean boot, gradually re-enable startup programs to identify the problematic software.
6. Restore or reinstall Windows: As a last resort, if the above steps don't resolve the issue, consider using System Restore to revert to a previous state where the system was functioning correctly. If that fails, you might need to reinstall Windows.

What are the common causes of the "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error in Windows?

The "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error in Windows can be triggered by various factors, commonly including:

1. Faulty RAM: Defective RAM modules are a frequent cause of this error. The system may be attempting to reference memory that does not exist or is faulty.
2. Driver issues: Incompatible or outdated drivers, particularly those for hardware components like graphics cards or storage devices, can lead to this error.
3. Corrupted system files: If essential system files are damaged or missing, Windows may encounter issues when trying to access them, leading to this error.
4. BIOS problems: An outdated or corrupted BIOS can cause hardware-related errors, including the "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error.
5. Software conflicts: Sometimes, third-party software can interfere with system operations, causing this type of BSOD error.
6. Overclocking: Overclocking your CPU or GPU can destabilize your system, potentially triggering this error.

Can the "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error be fixed without restarting the computer?

While some temporary fixes might be possible without restarting the computer, resolving the "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error typically requires a restart. Here's why:

• Hardware checks: Tools like Windows Memory Diagnostic or MemTest86 usually require a system restart to perform thorough checks on RAM.
• Driver updates: Updating drivers often necessitates a system restart to apply the changes effectively.
• System File Checker: The SFC tool may require a restart to complete its repair process and apply any fixes.
• BIOS updates: Updating the BIOS involves restarting the computer to enter the BIOS setup and apply the update.
• Clean boot: Performing a clean boot and testing if the error persists will require a restart.

While you can attempt some preliminary troubleshooting steps like checking Event Viewer logs or closing recently installed applications without restarting, the comprehensive fixes for the "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error almost always require rebooting the system.

Are there specific software tools recommended for diagnosing the "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error?

Yes, several software tools are particularly useful for diagnosing and potentially resolving the "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error:

1. Windows Memory Diagnostic: This tool, built into Windows, can help diagnose faulty RAM, a common cause of the "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error. To run it, search for "Windows Memory Diagnostic" in the Start menu, and follow the prompts to restart and check for memory problems.
2. MemTest86: A more advanced memory testing tool, MemTest86 is highly effective for identifying memory issues. You'll need to create a bootable USB drive with MemTest86 and run it during system startup.
3. System File Checker (SFC): This tool checks for and repairs corrupted system files. Run it by opening Command Prompt as an administrator and entering sfc /scannow.
4. Driver Verifier: This built-in Windows tool helps identify faulty drivers. To use it, open Command Prompt as an administrator and type verifier. Choose "Create standard settings" and select "Automatically select all drivers installed on this computer" to start the verification process.
5. BlueScreenView: A free utility from NirSoft, BlueScreenView analyzes crash dump files to help pinpoint the drivers or modules that might be causing the BSOD, including the "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error.
6. WhoCrashed: Another useful tool for analyzing crash dump files, WhoCrashed can provide detailed information about what caused the system to crash, helping to identify and resolve the "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error.

Using these tools can significantly aid in diagnosing and fixing the "REFERENCE_BY_POINTER" error, helping to restore system stability.

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