Reference Counter Overflow in Security Descriptor Causes STOP

• Microsoft Windows NT Server versions 3.51 and 4.0
• Microsoft Windows NT Workstation versions 3.51 and 4.0

SYMPTOMS

After several weeks of operation, a very busy Windows NT computer may experience a blue screen error message. This behavior has been observed on some Microsoft Exchange servers and SAP R/3 servers.

CAUSE

This problem occurs when the reference counter overflows due to the intense use of security descriptors within an application (for example, for RPC impersonation).

RESOLUTION

To resolve this problem, obtain the hotfix below, or wait for the next service pack.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Windows NT version 4.0. A supported fix is now available, but has not been fully regression-tested and should be applied only to systems experiencing this specific problem. Unless you are severely impacted by this specific problem, Microsoft recommends that you wait for the next Service Pack that contains this fix. Contact Microsoft Technical Support for more information.

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Windows NT version 3.51. A supported fix is now available, but has not been fully regression-tested and should be applied only to systems experiencing this specific problem. Unless you are severely impacted by this specific problem, Microsoft recommends that you wait for the next Service Pack that contains this fix. Contact Microsoft Technical Support for more information.