Experiencing a "KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE" blue screen error (BSOD) on Windows 10 can be unsettling. It's a common issue that affects users across a range of devices and can often disrupt your work or leisure activities. In this article, we will delve into the potential causes of this error and provide you with comprehensive, step-by-step solutions to effectively fix it.
What is KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE?
The "KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE" is a stop code error that generally indicates that there are issues related to your system’s memory or driver problems. When Windows detects that some critical security checks fail, it prevents the system from continuing, ultimately leading to a blue screen error to protect the integrity of the operating system.
This error can stem from several underlying issues, including:
- Corrupt system files
- Incompatible drivers
- Hardware issues, particularly with RAM
- Software conflicts, especially with recent installations
- Malware or viruses
Understanding the potential causes of the "KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE" error can help you take the appropriate steps to fix it. Now, let’s explore the various methods to resolve this frustrating issue.
1. Perform a System Restart
While it might sound simplistic, rebooting your computer is often the first line of defense against many technical problems. Sometimes, a temporary glitch may result in the KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE, and a restart can resolve it.
- Save your work and close all applications.
- Click on the Start menu and select the power icon.
- Choose Restart and allow the computer to reboot.
After the restart, check if the error persists. If it does, move on to the next solutions.
2. Update Device Drivers
Outdated or incompatible drivers are a common culprit behind the KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE. Windows requires the most recent drivers to function effectively, especially after updates. Here's how you can update your device drivers:
Manual Update
- Right-click on the Start menu and select Device Manager.
- Expand the categories, especially "Display adapters," "Network adapters," and "Sound, video, and game controllers."
- Right-click on each device and select "Update driver."
- Follow the prompts to search automatically for updated driver software.
Automatic Update
Alternatively, use a tool like Driver Booster or Snappy Driver Installer to automatically scan for and update outdated drivers.
Pro Tip: After updating your drivers, reboot your computer to ensure the updates take effect.
3. Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft frequently releases updates to improve system performance and security. Here’s how to check for and install these updates:
- Go to Settings by pressing
Windows + I. - Select "Update & Security."
- Click on "Windows Update" and then "Check for updates."
- Install any pending updates.
After completing this process, restart your computer to see if the error remains.
4. Run System File Checker (SFC)
The System File Checker is a handy built-in tool that can help repair corrupt system files:
-
Press
Windows + Xand select “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” or “Command Prompt (Admin).” -
Type the following command and hit Enter:
sfc /scannow -
Wait for the scan to complete; this process may take several minutes.
-
Once done, restart your computer.
The SFC tool will attempt to fix any corrupted files it encounters, which may resolve the KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE issue.
5. Use DISM Tool
If SFC didn't solve the problem, try using the DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool) utility to repair the system image:
-
Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
-
Type the following command and hit Enter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth -
Wait for the process to complete and then reboot your computer.
Running DISM can fix deeper issues related to the Windows image, potentially resolving the BSOD error.
6. Check Memory (RAM)
Faulty RAM is another common cause of the KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE error. To check your memory for problems, follow these steps:
- Press
Windows + Rto open the Run dialog. - Type
mdsched.exeand hit Enter. - Select either "Restart now and check for problems" or "Check for problems the next time I start my computer."
The system will restart and check your RAM for issues. If errors are found, replacing the RAM modules may be necessary.
7. Disable Fast Startup
The Fast Startup feature in Windows 10 can sometimes interfere with the boot process, leading to errors. Here’s how to disable it:
- Go to Control Panel and select "Power Options."
- Click on "Choose what the power buttons do."
- Click on "Change settings that are currently unavailable."
- Scroll down to "Shutdown settings" and uncheck "Turn on fast startup."
- Click "Save changes" and restart your computer.
This action can help if the fast startup feature is causing conflicts during the system boot.
8. Scan for Malware
Malware infections can lead to various system issues, including blue screen errors. It’s essential to run a full system scan using Windows Defender or a trusted third-party antivirus program:
- Open Windows Security by clicking on the Start menu and selecting "Settings."
- Navigate to "Update & Security" and click on "Windows Security."
- Select "Virus & threat protection" and choose "Quick scan" or "Scan options" for a full scan.
- Follow the prompts to remove any detected threats.
9. Restore Your System
If the error started occurring after a recent change, performing a system restore to a point when everything was working smoothly might be a viable option:
- Open Control Panel and select "Recovery."
- Click "Open System Restore."
- Follow the prompts to select a restore point and proceed with the restoration process.
Your computer will be reverted to the state it was in before the changes were made, which may fix the KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE.
10. Reset Windows 10
If none of the previous methods have resolved your issue, resetting Windows 10 could be the final option. This will reinstall Windows while allowing you to keep your personal files (though applications will need to be reinstalled):
- Go to Settings and select "Update & Security."
- Click on "Recovery."
- Under "Reset this PC," click "Get started."
- Choose to keep your files and follow the prompts.
Resetting Windows will take time and can be a last-resort method, but it typically resolves deep-rooted software issues.
Conclusion
The KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE stop code error can be a significant hindrance, but with the right approach and troubleshooting methods, it’s a manageable issue. By systematically applying the fixes outlined in this article, users can restore their Windows 10 systems back to optimal performance.
If you find yourself in situations where these fixes do not work or the problem persists, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional technician who can diagnose and rectify more complex hardware issues.
With the right knowledge and tools, overcoming the KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE can be a straightforward process, empowering users to continue with their digital lives without further interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What causes the KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE error?
A1: The error can result from corrupt system files, incompatible drivers, faulty hardware (especially RAM), software conflicts, or malware infections.
Q2: How can I check if my RAM is faulty?
A2: You can use the built-in Windows Memory Diagnostic tool by typing mdsched.exe in the Run dialog and following the on-screen prompts.
Q3: Is it safe to disable fast startup?
A3: Yes, disabling fast startup is safe and can often resolve boot-related issues that lead to errors like KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE.
Q4: Will resetting Windows remove my personal files?
A4: If you choose the "Keep my files" option during the reset process, your personal files will be preserved; however, applications will need to be reinstalled.
Q5: What should I do if none of the methods work?
A5: If none of the solutions work, it may be time to consult a professional technician who can diagnose and fix deeper hardware issues.