ERROR_PAGE_FAULT_GUARD_PAGE - 750 (0x2EE)

Introduction

This article provides a detailed technical reference for the ERROR_PAGE_FAULT_GUARD_PAGE error code in Windows. It covers the technical meaning, context of usage, and developer interpretation.

Technical Background

The ERROR_PAGE_FAULT_GUARD_PAGE is a specific error code indicating that a page fault occurred due to accessing a guard page. Guard pages are used for various purposes such as detecting buffer overflows or providing memory protection mechanisms.

Error Details

Numeric Code and Hexadecimal Representation

• Numeric Code: 750
• Hexadecimal Code: 0x2EE

Short Description

The error message indicates that a page fault was a demand zero fault, meaning the system attempted to access a guard page that is mapped to a non-existent memory location.

Common Causes

1. Invalid Memory Access: Attempting to read or write to a memory address that has been marked as a guard page.
2. Buffer Overflow: Writing data beyond the allocated buffer boundary, causing an attempt to access a guard page.
3. Incorrect Memory Mapping: Mismatch between expected and actual memory mappings.

Real-World Context

This error can occur in various scenarios where memory management is involved, such as within user-mode applications or kernel operations that handle memory allocation and deallocation.

Is This Error Critical?

The criticality of this error depends on the context. In most cases, it indicates a potential security risk due to buffer overflow or other memory corruption issues. However, in some scenarios, it might be a benign condition if properly managed by the application.

How to Diagnose

1. Review Operation Context: Ensure that all operations involving memory access are within valid boundaries.
2. Validate Parameters: Verify that input parameters passed to functions do not exceed their expected limits.
3. Confirm Object Types: Ensure that objects being accessed are of the correct type and have appropriate mappings.

How to Resolve

1. Correct Parameter Usage: Ensure all memory-related operations use valid addresses and sizes.
2. Adjust Operation Context: Modify application logic to avoid accessing invalid memory regions.
3. Restore Data: If data corruption is detected, restore it from a backup or correct the source of the issue.

Developer Notes

Developers should be cautious when handling memory in their applications to prevent such errors. Proper validation and boundary checks can help mitigate this type of error.

Related Errors

• ERROR_INVALID_ADDRESS (487, 0x1E3)
• STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION (0xC0000005)

FAQ

Q: What does the ERROR_PAGE_FAULT_GUARD_PAGE error indicate?

A: It indicates that a page fault occurred due to accessing a guard page, which is mapped to a non-existent memory location.

Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring in my application?

A: Ensure proper validation of memory addresses and sizes, and avoid buffer overflows by carefully managing data boundaries.

Summary

The ERROR_PAGE_FAULT_GUARD_PAGE error code is specific to page faults involving guard pages. It highlights potential issues such as buffer overflows or incorrect memory mappings. Developers should take appropriate measures to validate inputs and manage memory correctly to prevent this error from occurring.