How to Fix the ERROR_STACK_OVERFLOW_READ Bug Check

Make sure that the OS and drivers are updated

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How to fix ERROR_STACK_OVERFLOW_READ
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The ERROR_STACK_OVERFLOW_READ bug check code 599 (0x257) comes with the message The request must be handled by the stack overflow code. The error occurs when a system or application tries to read data from a stack that has exceeded its allowed memory limit. It usually appears in coding environments for recursive function calls. If a program keeps calling functions without an exit condition, it can overflow the stack.

However, it may also be due to excessive memory allocation, faulty drivers or system processes, malware or exploits, and corrupt software or system files.

How do I fix ERROR_STACK_OVERFLOW_READ?

1. Update Windows and drivers

  1. Open Settings (Win + I), go to Windows Update, then click Check for updates, and install any available ones.
  2. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
  3. After reboot, press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  4. Expand categories and right-click on hardware components (e.g., graphics card, network adapter).
  5. Select Update driver and choose Search automatically for drivers.
  6. Restart your PC after updating drivers.

If any component from the list has a yellow exclamation mark next to it, start by updating its driver. If you want to finish this task a lot faster, you should use a driver updater tool. Dedicated software will scan your system and install new drivers automatically.

2. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM scans

  1. Press Win + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Enter the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete and restart your PC.
  4. Open Command Prompt (Admin) again, as instructed on the first step.
  5. Run the following command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  6. Wait for the process to finish, then restart your system.

If the ERROR_STACK_OVERFLOW_READ is caused by corrupted system files or image, running the SFC and DISM scans will fix the problem.

3. Scan for malware and viruses

  1. Open Windows Security (Win + S, then type Windows Security).
  2. Go to Virus & threat protection.
  3. Click Quick scan or Full scan for a deeper check.
  4. If threats are found, follow the on-screen instructions to remove them.

Alternatively, use a trusted third-party antivirus program to scan your PC.

4. Check for problematic software

  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I on your keyboard.
  2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Find the software, click Uninstall, and follow the prompts.
  4. Reinstall a fresh copy from the official source.

If the error occurs when running a specific application, it may be buggy or incompatible. If you installed any applications prior to this error occurring, start with them.

5. Increase Stack Size (for developers & advanced users)

  1. Open the project in Visual Studio or your IDE.
  2. Modify the stack size limit in the Linker settings.
  3. Optimize recursive functions to prevent infinite loops.

If you are a developer experiencing this error in a program, try increasing the stack size as instructed in the steps above.

6. Check RAM for Faults

  1. Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
  2. Select Restart now and check for problems.
  3. Your system will restart and scan for RAM issues.

Faulty memory can lead to stack overflows. If memory errors are found, consider replacing faulty RAM modules.

7. Reset Windows

  1. Open Settings > System > Recovery.
  2. Click Reset this PC.
  3. Choose Keep my files (to preserve personal data) or Remove everything (for a clean install).
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to reset Windows.

If all else fails, as a last resort, you may try resetting Windows to fix deep system issues.

After following these steps, ERROR_STACK_OVERFLOW_READ should be resolved. If the issue persists, it may indicate a hardware failure and you should consider consulting a professional or Microsoft support.

We also have a guide on ERROR_MARSHALL_OVERFLOW that might give you more useful information.

For any suggestions or questions, feel free to leave a note in the comments section below.

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