The “Kernel Security Check Failure” error is a common problem in Windows that causes the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). This error happens when Windows finds issues with drivers, system files, or hardware, forcing your computer to crash and restart.
While it might seem serious, it is usually fixable. The main causes include outdated drivers, broken system files, or overclocking.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to fix this error by updating drivers, scanning for malware and more. With these simple steps, you can resolve the issue and stop it from happening again.
What is the “Kernel Security Check Failure” Error in Windows?
The “Kernel Security Check Failure” error in Windows 10 is a serious issue that can cause a “Blue Screen of Death,” where the computer crashes and automatically restarts.
Fixing this problem might require professional help, which can be costly. However, we can guide you on how to fix this error yourself at home to save you the trouble and expense.
Causes of Kernel Security Failure
The “Kernel Security Check Failure” error in Windows can happen for a few reasons. Understanding what causes this error is crucial because each reason might need a different fix. Here are some causes of Kernel Security Failure:
1: Out-of-date or Wrong Drivers
Drivers help your computer work with things like the graphics card and internet connection. If these drivers are old or not right for your system, your computer might become unstable and show errors. Keeping your drivers updated is a good way to avoid this problem.
2: Broken Hardware
If parts like the RAM, hard drive, or motherboard are broken, it can lead to errors. These parts are crucial for your computer to work right. If they’re damaged, you might need to fix or replace them, which can be costly.
3: Broken System Files
Sometimes, the files that help run your computer get damaged. This can make your computer act up and cause errors.
The damage might happen because of viruses, disk problems, or if the computer is not shut down properly. Finding and fixing these broken files can take a lot of effort because there are so many of them.
4: Overclocking
Overclocking means making parts of your computer run faster than they’re supposed to. While this can make your computer faster, doing it wrong can make your system unstable and cause errors. It’s important to follow the right steps when overclocking to avoid issues.
5: Viruses and Malware
Viruses can attack your computer’s security and cause it to crash. Some viruses specifically target the core parts of your operating system, leading to errors.
It’s important to keep your computer’s defences, like Windows Firewall, active and consider additional security software.
Ways to Fix Kernel Security Check Error
Here is the list of the common fixes for kernel security check failure errors in Windows 10 and 11.
Method 1. Check and Fix System Files
Step 1: Start in Safe Mode:
First, boot your computer in Safe Mode. If you don’t see the error in Safe Mode, your main hardware and drivers are probably fine. If the error shows up again, here’s what to do next:
Step 2: Use System File Checker (SFC):
- Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This tool scans your system files for problems and tries to fix them.
- If SFC doesn’t find any issues, your system files are okay.
- If SFC finds but cannot fix some files, this means there’s a more complicated problem.
Step 3: Use DISM Tool:
- If SFC can’t fix everything, you should use the DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator again.
- Type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter. DISM needs an internet connection to download the necessary files to repair your system.
Step 4: Try System Restore:
- If both SFC and DISM don’t fix the issue and the problem is recent, consider using System Restore.
- This will roll back your system to an earlier time before the problems started, which can undo recent changes that caused the error.
Method 2: . Keep Windows and Drivers Updated
Outdated Windows or drivers can cause kernel security check errors. Keeping everything updated helps fix these problems. Here’s how:
- Update Windows: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update to check for updates and install them. This ensures your system has the latest fixes.
- Update Drivers: Make sure your device drivers, especially for your display and chipset, are up to date. You can do this manually using the Device Manager or by downloading updates directly from the hardware manufacturer’s website.
Method 3. Check and Fix Faulty Hardware
If the error is caused by broken hardware like RAM or a storage device, you can use diagnostic tools to check for problems:
- Use tools like Memtest86 to test your RAM.
- Many computer manufacturers also provide their diagnostic tools.
- If the tool finds issues, replace the faulty hardware to fix the problem.
Method 4. Scan for Malware
Malware can sometimes cause this error. Run a full malware scan using your antivirus or anti-malware software to find and remove any harmful programs.
Method 5. Disable Overclocking
Overclocking your CPU or GPU can enhance performance, but it may also cause system instability and lead to errors like the Kernel Security Check Failure. To fix this, try disabling overclocking temporarily.
Access your system’s BIOS or UEFI settings and reset the overclocked components to their default speeds. Once done, check if the error persists. Disabling overclocking ensures your system runs at stable, manufacturer-recommended performance levels.
How to Prevent the Kernel Security Check Failure Error?
To avoid this error on Windows 10, follow these simple tips:
Keep Drivers Updated: Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause problems. Download and install the latest drivers for your hardware from the official manufacturer’s website.
Scan for Malware: Run regular scans with antivirus software to keep your system safe from harmful programs.
Back-Up Your Data: Always back up your important files to avoid losing them in case of errors.
Conclusion
The “Kernel Security Check Failure” error may seem alarming, but it is usually fixable with the right steps. By addressing common causes like outdated drivers, faulty hardware, corrupted files, malware, or overclocking, you can resolve the issue effectively.
Regularly updating drivers, scanning for malware, and backing up your data can also prevent this error in the future.
With tools like SFC, DISM, and diagnostic utilities, fixing this problem becomes manageable. Follow the methods outlined in this guide to troubleshoot and restore your system’s stability quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kernel Security Check Failure, and why does it happen?
Kernel Security Check Failure is a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error that occurs when Windows detects a problem with system files, drivers, or hardware. It can be caused by outdated drivers, corrupted system files, faulty hardware (like RAM), malware, or overclocking.
Can RAM Cause Kernel Security Check Failure?
Yes, faulty RAM or memory issues can lead to this error. If your RAM is not working correctly, it may cause instability and trigger the Kernel Security Check Failure.
How to Fix Kernel Security Check Failure?
A Kernel Security Check Failure can be alarming, especially when it causes the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). Here’s how you can fix it easily.
1: Boot into Safe Mode: Restart in Safe Mode for safe troubleshooting.
2: Scan for Malware: Run antivirus software to remove harmful programs.
3: Repair Corrupt Files: Use SFC and CHKDSK tools to fix disk or file errors.
4: Undo Recent Changes: Revert updates, software installs, or driver changes.
5: Analyze Crash Reports: Use Bluescreen View to identify the cause.
6: Update Graphics Drivers: Reinstall your graphics driver for stability.
