How to fix KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE BSoD error in Windows 11/10

What is KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE error

KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE is a critical Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) error that occurs on Windows 11 and Windows 10 systems when the operating system detects corruption or invalid entries in vital data structures. This error indicates significant issues at the kernel level, often related to incompatible drivers, memory problems, or corrupted system files. When this error surfaces, it forces the system to crash to prevent further damage, displaying a stop code that aids in diagnosing the underlying issue. Users might encounter this error during system boot-up, while running specific applications, or after installing new hardware or software. Common triggers include faulty RAM, hard drive corruption, or conflicts between system processes and third-party programs. Additionally, malware infections targeting system files can modify essential components, leading to this error. Understanding the root causes is crucial for effectively troubleshooting and resolving the problem. Ignoring this error can result in persistent system instability and potential data loss. Therefore, addressing the KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE promptly is essential to maintain the smooth operation and reliability of your Windows system.

Solutions to Fix KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE Error

1. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Scans

Corrupted or missing system files can lead to this error. Utilize built-in tools to repair them:

1. Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
2. In the command prompt, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Allow the scan to complete and repair any corrupted files it detects.
4. If issues persist, run the DISM tool by typing DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and pressing Enter.
5. After both scans finish, restart your computer.

2. Update or Reinstall Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause kernel errors:

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand device categories and look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark.
3. Right-click on the problematic device and choose Update driver.
4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
5. If no updates are found, visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest driver manually.

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3. Check for Memory Issues with Windows Memory Diagnostic

Faulty RAM can trigger system crashes:

1. Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and hit Enter.
2. Select Restart now and check for problems.
3. Upon restart, the tool will scan your memory for errors. Note any issues reported.
4. If errors are found, consider replacing the faulty RAM modules.

4. Scan and Repair Hard Disk Errors

Disk errors can lead to critical system failures:

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin) from the Start menu.
2. Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
3. You will be prompted to schedule the scan on the next restart; type Y and press Enter.
4. Restart your computer to initiate the disk check.
5. Allow the process to complete and follow any recommendations provided.

5. Disable Overclocking and Hardware Acceleration

Overclocking can cause instability:

1. If you’ve overclocked hardware components, revert them to default settings via BIOS or overclocking software.
2. Save changes and restart your computer.

Disabling hardware acceleration in certain applications may also help:

1. Open the application experiencing issues.
2. Navigate to Settings and disable Hardware Acceleration.
3. Restart the application to see if the problem persists.

6. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot helps identify software conflicts:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
3. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
4. Disable all startup items listed.
5. Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
6. Restart your computer. If the error doesn’t occur, gradually re-enable services and startup items to identify the culprit.

7. Update Windows

Keeping Windows up to date can fix known issues:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click on Check for updates.
3. Install any available updates and restart your system if prompted.

8. Scan for Malware

Malware can corrupt essential system files:

1. Ensure your antivirus software is up to date.
2. Run a full system scan to detect and remove malicious software.
3. For an advanced scan, use Windows Defender Offline:
1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
2. Select Virus & threat protection and click on Scan options.
3. Choose Microsoft Defender Offline scan and click Scan now.
4. Your computer will restart and commence a deep scan.

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9. Uninstall Recent Updates or Software

Recent changes may cause conflicts:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click on View update history and then Uninstall updates.
3. Identify and uninstall recent updates that may have caused the issue.
4. Alternatively, uninstall any recently installed software from Apps & Features.
5. Restart your computer to see if the error is resolved.

10. Perform System Restore

Revert your system to a previous state:

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui.exe, and press Enter.
2. Click Next and select a restore point before the error began.
3. Follow the prompts to restore your system.
4. After restoration, check if the system operates without errors.

Conclusion

Encountering the KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE error can be daunting, but with systematic troubleshooting, you can identify and resolve the underlying issues. Regularly updating drivers, scanning for malware, and maintaining hardware can prevent such errors. If none of the solutions work, consider seeking professional assistance or performing a clean installation of Windows as a last resort to ensure system stability.