Kernel Security Check Failure on Windows 10 (9 Solutions)

Kernel Security Check Failure BSOD implies that one or several files failed a compatibility or integrity check. Here is how to fix this blue screen error on windows 10.

The Kernel Security Check Failure error usually occurs when the Windows operating system detects a violation in kernel mode, leading to system instability. The kernel is the core component of the operating system that manages memory, processes, drivers, and other system resources. This violation can be caused by various factors, including hardware issues, incompatible drivers, or corrupted system files. This article explores What Causes Kernel Security Check Failure in Windows 10 and How to Troubleshoot It

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kernel security check failure error

When the kernel detects corruption, it stops the system and displays the error message on a blue screen. The error message may also include a stop code, such as 0x00000139, and a file name, such as ntoskrnl.exe, that indicates the source of the problem. There are many possible causes of the Kernel_security_check_failure error, but some of the most common ones include, Outdated or Incompatible Drivers, Corrupted System Files, Faulty Hardware, or third-party Software Conflicts.

  • If some of the essential files that Windows needs to run are damaged or missing, the kernel may not be able to access them or load them properly, leading to the security check failure.
  • Drivers play a crucial role in the proper functioning of hardware components. Outdated or incompatible drivers can lead to conflicts and result in the BSOD.
  • Incompatible or malfunctioning hardware components can trigger the Kernel Security Check Failure error. This includes issues with RAM, hard drives, or other connected peripherals.
  • Certain third-party applications or antivirus programs may interfere with the kernel, causing system crashes.

Depending on the cause of the error, there are different methods that you can try to fix it.

Check your hardware compatibility

Sometimes, installing new hardware components or peripherals may cause compatibility issues with your system or existing hardware. For example, if you install a new RAM module that has a different speed or size than your existing ones, it may cause instability or errors with the memory management. If the problem started after a recent hardware change or software update the first thing we recommend disconnect external devices.

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  • Unplug any external devices that you have connected to your PC, such as USB drives, printers, scanners, etc.
  • Restart your PC and see if the error persists, If the error does not occur, plug in one device at a time and restart your PC until you find the device that causes the error.
  • If possible, replace or remove the problematic device or update its driver.
  • In addition, Re-seat RAM modules and ensure they are securely in place, Check for loose cables and connections.
  • Also, you can Use hardware diagnostic tools provided by your computer’s manufacturer to identify and replace malfunctioning hardware.

Boot in Safe Mode

If Due to this BSOD system restarts frequently and you are unable to boot up your computer and access regular mode, you should boot into Windows 10 Safe Mode. Safe Mode allows your system to start with a minimal set of drivers and services, helping you identify if the Kernel_security_check_failure error is caused by third-party software or drivers.

To do this Boot from installation media (If you don’t have a bootable USB/DVD create one by following this post: Create Windows 10 bootable USB.)

repair your computer

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Repair your computer -> Troubleshoot -> Advanced options -> Startup Settings -> Restart -> Press F4 to boot into safe mode.

Note: Press F5 to boot into safe mode with networking where using an internet connection we can install the latest driver updates.

windows 10 safe mode types

Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can lead to the Kernel_security_check_failure on Windows 10. Running SFC and DISM scans helps repair these files, ensuring the integrity of your Windows installation. SFC is a built-in tool that scans and repairs corrupted or missing system files DISM performs advanced level scans and repairs Windows images.

  • Press the Windows key + S, type cmd, and Open the Command Prompt as an administrator
  • Run sfc /scannow and wait for the scan to complete.
  • Next, run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.
  • Restart your computer after the scans are finished.

This is helpful if corrupted missing system files cause kernel security check failure error.

Update Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can disrupt the communication between hardware and the operating system, leading to the Kernel Security Check Failure on Windows 10. Especially if the problem started after a recent Windows upgrade there is a chance the installed device driver is not compatible with the current Windows version. Updating drivers ensures that your system can efficiently interact with hardware components.

Press the Windows + X keys and select Device Manager from the menu. look if any devices with a yellow triangle (indicating driver issues). Right-click on the device, choose “Update driver,” and follow the on-screen instructions.

We recommend check and update device drivers especially the display driver, Network Adapter, and Audio Driver.

Expand the category of the device that you want to update and right-click on it. Select Update driver from the context menu and follow the instructions on the screen.

Update display driver

Also, you can Visit the official website of your hardware component or use automatic driver update tools for the latest versions.

Updating your drivers can help resolve compatibility issues or fix bugs that may cause errors.

Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool

Faulty or incompatible RAM modules can cause errors with the memory management of the kernel. Running Windows Memory Diagnostic tool helps identify and address memory problems, with your RAM modules.

If you are using a Desktop computer it’s recommended to Completely shut down the windows and disconnect the power cables. Now “Open your PC cabinet and then remove RAM  from the motherboard.” Clean RAM using an eraser and Re-Insert it.

Clean RAM using eraser

Note: Try this if you have knowledge of RAM and other computer parts otherwise take the help of the Technician guy.

After that connect the power cable and start windows and check it helped.

Also, Run the Memory Diagnostic tool to find out your memory problems. Because Corrupted RAM can cause this blue screen problem. To determine whether or not this is the case, you will first, need to test your RAM. This can be done, by running the Memory Diagnostic Tool.

  • Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
  • Choose “Restart now and check for problems.”
  • The tool will run a memory test, and results will be displayed after your computer restarts.
  • If issues are detected, consider replacing the faulty RAM module.

Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

Uninstall Problematic Software

Certain third-party applications may conflict with the kernel, leading to system errors. Uninstalling recently installed software allows you to identify and address potential conflicts.

  • Press Win + I to open Settings.
  • Go to “Apps” and select “Apps & features.”
  • Identify recently installed applications, click on them, and select “Uninstall.”
  • Restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Uninstall apps windows 10

Check for Windows Updates

Keeping your operating system up to date is crucial for security and stability. Windows updates often include fixes for known issues, reducing the risk of encountering the Kernel Security Check Failure error.

Sometimes, Microsoft may release updates that can fix known issues or errors with the kernel or other system components.

  • Press the Windows + I keys and select Update & Security from the settings window.
  • Click on Check for updates and install any available updates.
  • Restart your PC if prompted and see if the error is resolved.

Windows 10 update download

Scan for Hard Disk Errors (CHKDSK Command)

Again Hard disk errors can contribute to system instability. Running the CHKDSK command helps identify and repair file system and disk errors, reducing the risk of encountering the Kernel Security Check Failure on Windows 10.

  • Open the command prompt as administrator, type chkdsk C: /f /r, and press the Enter key.
  • You may be prompted to schedule a disk check at the next restart; type Y and press Enter.

Run Check disk on Windows 10

Restart your computer, and CHKDSK will scan and repair disk errors during the boot process.

Scan for Virus or malware

Malware is malicious software that can infect your system and compromise its security and performance. Some malware may modify or delete system files, inject malicious code into processes, or interfere with drivers or hardware devices, causing kernel corruption.

Scanning for malware can help you remove any malicious software that may infect your system and cause errors.

You can use built-in Windows security or Download and install a reputable antivirus program on your PC. Run a full system scan and remove any detected threats.

For a few users, disable the fast startup feature help get rid of Windows 10 blue screen error.

  • You can disable fast startup from the Control panel-> System and security -> Power Options.
  • click on Choose what the power button does then click on Change settings that are currently unavailable.
  • Here Under “Shutdown settings”, uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended) then click Save changes.

If all the above solutions fail to fix the issue still windows fail to start with BSOD error, Then try to roll back the windows to the previous version. (applicable if the problem started after a recent Windows upgrade) Or try System restore from Advanced options where Windows reverts the settings to the previous working state where the system running smoothly.)

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