Troubleshoot and Fix a Kernel Security Check Failure in Windows (2024)

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Kernel security check failure errors in Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7 appear on the Blue Screen of Death when one or more data files fail to pass an integrity or compatibility check.

The error message typically appears as follows.

• Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart. We're just collecting some error info, and then we'll restart for you.
• Stop Code: KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE

Cause of Kernel Security Check Failure Errors

Kernel security check failure errors typically occur when booting, shutting down, or putting a computer in sleep mode. Most often, the problem begins following a Windows update or RAM upgrade.

Several issues might be at the root of a kernel security check failure error. Although the most common include outdated drivers, hard disk or RAM corruption, or a virus or malware infection, the error could also be caused by damage to Windows OS files.

How to Fix Kernel Security Check Failure Errors

In some cases, the solution is as simple as uninstalling an update or driver. In other cases, it takes a bit more time and effort to pinpoint and resolve this issue. Beginning with the most common and easily-resolved fixes and working up to more challenging ones, if necessary, could help you locate and repair it quickly.

1. Remove any removable peripheral devices. Before beginning the troubleshooting process, remove any peripheral devices that may interfere. Take out any other removable items, such as CDs or flash drives, as well. If any of these have loose or damaged connections, it could cause a kernel security check failure error, as Windows connects to these items first at startup. Restart the computer to see if this resolves the error. If not, continue troubleshooting.

   Check other connections, such as the power cord and monitor, at this time.

   See Also

   How to Quickly Fix the Kernel Security Check Failure in Windows

2. Scan for malware. A virus or other malicious software could be the root of the damage that caused the error message. Using Windows Defender or other antivirus software, search for and remove any malware that might be harming the system. Reboot after finishing and continue troubleshooting if the error remains.

3. Disable Windows automatic restart. When the BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) appears, prevent the computer from restarting automatically, so that you have the opportunity to dig in and start troubleshooting.

4. Start Windows in Safe Mode. By booting up with only essential applications running, you might find that a recently installed application triggered the error message. If necessary, use the power button to perform a hard reboot. Once in Safe Mode, uninstall programs that were added before the kernel security check failure appeared. Restart the computer and try again. If the error still appears, continue troubleshooting.

5. Update the drivers. A corrupt device driver is one of the most common reasons this issue occurs. Using Device Manager, check for any available driver updates, and install them, then restart the computer after you have done so. Keep troubleshooting if the error continues.

6. Check for Windows updates. Although Windows updates are typically installed automatically, an update may be available that you haven't downloaded yet, which could resolve the issue. Windows needs to restart following any updates, so check to see if the error is gone once the computer boots up again.

7. Perform a scan to diagnose possible RAM issues. Windows Memory Diagnostic (WMD) is a free tool that used to be available from Microsoft and is still available for download from a reliable source. However, there are many other free memory tests you might want to use, as well. Restart the computer after using the tool. If the error still appears, continue troubleshooting.

8. Scan the system to check for corrupt files. Using the System File Checker enables you to seek out problems with protected Windows files. The tool replaces any damaged files that it finds. Restart the computer to see if this resolves the error. If not, continue troubleshooting.

9. Check the hard disk for errors. Another tool built into Windows is the Error Checking Tool, which you can run manually at any time to identify (and correct) hard drive errors. After using the Error Checking Tool, a reboot is required. If the error still appears, keep troubleshooting.

10. Restore the system to a past working point. Using Windows System Restore undoes any changes that might prompt the issue, essentially taking the computer back in time to a point when it worked correctly.

11. Use the Startup Repair Tool. If you still see the BSOD when you boot up the computer, run the Startup Repair Tool to fix any outstanding issues automatically. A Startup Repair (formerly called Automatic Repair) is an effective tool to fix a computer that is not starting up properly. Startup Repair is available from the Advanced Startup Options menu.

12. Reset the computer. Using Reset This PC in Windows 10 or Windows 8 is the last resort to try if none of the previous troubleshooting efforts worked. You have the option to keep your files, remove everything, or restore the computer to factory settings. Take care with this option if you don't want to start over from scratch with your computer.