Reddit Validated Error Code 0xC0000017: How to Fix It

Medium 30-60 minutes High Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
0xC0000017
Brand
Reddit Validated
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
High
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes
Error 0xC0000017 means your system ran out of memory (paged or non-paged pool). This can happen due to a memory leak, faulty driver, or insufficient RAM. Follow these steps to free up memory and resolve the error.
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How to Fix Error Code 0xC0000017

  1. Restart Your Computer

  2. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

    Your PC will restart immediately. Save all work first.

  3. Check for Memory Leaks Using Task Manager

  4. Update or Roll Back Drivers

    Rolling back may remove feature updates but can fix compatibility issues.

  5. Increase Virtual Memory (Paging File)

    Ensure you have enough free disk space for the paging file.

  6. Scan for Malware

    A full scan may take an hour or more.

  7. Disable Startup Programs

    Do not disable essential system programs like antivirus.

  8. Repair System Files

    This may require a Windows installation media if files are missing.

  9. Test with a Clean Boot

    This disables third-party services temporarily. Re-enable them after troubleshooting.

  10. Update Windows to the Latest Version

    Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
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When to Call a Professional

If the error persists after trying all steps, it may indicate faulty RAM or a deeper hardware issue. Contact a technician for hardware diagnostics or consider replacing your RAM sticks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error 0xC0000017 mean?
It means Windows tried to allocate memory but failed because the system ran out of available memory (paged or non-paged pool). This is often caused by a memory leak or insufficient RAM.
How do I fix error 0xC0000017 permanently?
Identify the cause (faulty driver, malware, or memory leak) and address it. Updating drivers, increasing virtual memory, and scanning for malware are common solutions.
Can error 0xC0000017 be caused by hardware?
Yes, faulty or insufficient RAM can cause this error. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic to check for hardware issues.
Is error 0xC0000017 dangerous?
It's not dangerous to your hardware but can cause crashes and data loss. Save your work regularly while troubleshooting.
Does increasing virtual memory fix error 0xC0000017?
It can help if the issue is low available memory, but it won't fix a memory leak. Use it alongside other steps to identify the root cause.

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