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Fix: The Instruction at 0x000000000 Referenced Memory
Check our verified solutions for a quick fix
6 min. read
Updated onApril 2, 2024
updated onApril 2, 2024
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We often seeapps not opening, and the message accompanying the issue lists the underlying cause and helps with the troubleshooting. But that doesn’t always work, as is the case withThe instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000. The memory could not be writtenerror.
The referenced memory could not be written error can be encountered while launching programs, running games or graphics-intensive apps, or even shutting down the PC. Keep reading to find out all about it!
Why reference memory could not be written?
The error states that the address where the critical information is stored on the RAM is inaccessible to the software, or changes can’t be made to it. The problem can arise due to hardware and software issues, though it’s generally the latter to blame.
Here are a few reasons you get the error:
How do I fix the instruction at referenced memory could not be written error?
Before we move to the slightly complex ones, here are a few quick tricks to try:
If none work, head to the fixes listed next.
1. Run the DISM and SFC scans
For cases when it’s thecorrupt system filesto blame for the error, the easiest solution is torun the DISM tooland SFC scan.
These will replace the corrupt files with the cached copy stored on the PC and get rid ofThe instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000. The memory could not be writtenerror.
Moreover, you can try dedicatedthird-party repair softwareto make sure you erase not only corrupt system files but other Windows stability issues as well.
2. Update the graphics driver
A corrupt, incompatible, or outdated one can trigger a range of errors, andupdating the graphics driverwill take care of it all. Besides, if Windows can’t find one locally, you can alwaysmanually install the latest driverfrom the manufacturer’s website.
3. Increase the virtual memory
Whenrunning out of RAM, a quick solution is toincrease the virtual memoryin Windows. This part of the disk acts as RAM by temporarily storing files. While it functions the same way as the RAM, it’s not as fast. So, adding virtual memory can’t be a permanent solution.
Remember, this also helps withThe instruction at 0x00 referenced memoryerror.
4. Reinstall the app
As pointed out on many forums, the error also appears due to an improper app installation or missing files. And in this case,uninstalling the programand getting it from scratch does the trick.
Also, for users gettingThe instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000. The memory could not be writtenerror with Firefox,downloading the 32-bit versionof the browser works.
5. Perform a system restore
In case the previous solutions didn’t help, you could perform a system restore and revert any recent changes on the PC that might be triggering the error. This will get rid of any software-related issues.
6. Check for memory issues
When nothing works, it could be a memory-related problem that leads to the error. For that, we have the built-inWindows Memory Diagnosticto help identify and eliminate common problems with the RAM.
Also, for a more comprehensive scan, you can useMemtest86+, an open-source memory testing tool that finds even the minutest and most complex issues with the RAM.
Since the tool takes a few hours, it’s best to run it overnight. And if any problems are found, replace the affected RAM module.
By now, you should have fixedThe instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000. The memory could not be writtenerror encountered when running apps.
Before you leave, check some quick tips tomake Windows faster than ever.
Tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below.
More about the topics:memory issues
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.