Fix Kernel Security Check Failure on Windows 10

Seeing a Blue Screen of Death with the message “Kernel Security Check Failure Windows 10” can really throw you off, especially when it seems to come out of nowhere. It might happen after a system update or during gaming. You’re left wondering if it’s a driver issue, corrupted files, or something more serious like hardware failure. This guide breaks it all down in plain steps so you finally have a clear path forward.

Why You’re Seeing “Kernel Security Check Failure” on Windows 10

Kernel Security Check Failure Windows 10 error isn’t just another crash, it’s a sign that something deep in your system isn’t right. It could be a driver, hardware glitch, or corrupted file acting up behind the scenes. This stop code is designed to protect your PC from further damage by halting everything immediately. Understanding what’s behind it is the first step toward fixing it for good.

Let’s take a closer look at what might be causing the error:

• Driver Issues: A common culprit. If you recently updated Windows or installed new hardware, some of your drivers, especially for graphics or network, may no longer be compatible.

• Hardware Failures: Your RAM might be failing, your hard drive may be developing bad sectors, or your CPU could be overheating. These hardware issues can easily trigger kernel-level crashes.

• Corrupted System Files: Maybe there was a power cut or forced shutdown during an update. That alone can damage important system files and confuse Windows at boot.

• Software Conflicts: Sometimes, antivirus programs or gaming anti-cheat tools (like Easy Anti-Cheat) interfere with system-level processes, leading to instability.

• Malware or Viruses: Infections can corrupt or remove essential data structures that Windows depends on, resulting in a BSOD.

• Recent Windows Updates: Some updates introduce bugs or compatibility issues that aren’t immediately noticeable until your PC crashes unexpectedly especially when installing them manually or outside regular update cycles

• Memory Errors: Swapping in new RAM or using mismatched sticks can lead to memory addressing errors, especially if BIOS settings aren’t tweaked accordingly.

• Overheating: If your system overheats under load maybe due to dust buildup or failed fans, Windows may shut down abruptly to prevent damage.

Easiest Way to Clear Kernel Security Check Failure On Windows 10

Sometimes the simplest fix turns out to be exactly what your system needs. A quick restart can resolve minor memory hiccups, driver stalls, or unfinished updates that triggered the kernel security check failure Windows 10 error. It’s an easy first step that clears the way for more targeted fixes if needed. Let’s start with the basics and see if a reboot does the trick.

Steps to Clear Kernel Security Check Failure by Restarting PC

A restart is quick, easy, and often all it takes to clear minor system glitches. Here’s how to do it properly and what to check after reboot:

Step 1: Save your work if you can and close everything running in the background.

Step 2: Click on the Start Menu, choose the Power icon, and select “Restart”.

Step 3: After rebooting, keep an eye out for any signs of the blue screen returning, that's what’s commonly known as the Blue Screen of Death, or BSOD. If it doesn’t pop up again right away, chances are you were just dealing with a one-time system glitch.

Ease of Use: Perfect for beginners or anyone who’s short on time. It won’t solve deep-rooted problems, but it’s often enough to clear temporary bugs.

DISM Tool — Intermediate Solution for Kernel Security Check Failure  On Windows 10

If restarting didn’t solve the kernel security check failure Windows 10 error, it’s time to dig a little deeper. Windows comes with built-in tools that can repair damaged system files behind the scenes. One of the most effective is the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool, or DISM. It checks for corruption in the system image and helps restore stability.

Steps to Clear Kernel Security Check Failure Using Command Prompt:

DISM is a built-in repair tool that scans for deeper issues in your system files. Follow these steps to run it and start fixing core problems.

Step 1: Open the Start menu and search for Command Prompt, right-click it, and choose “Run as administrator”.

Step 2: In the Command Prompt window, type:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Then hit Enter.

Step 3: Once the scan completes, restart your computer to apply the repairs.

Ease of Use: Ideal for intermediate users comfortable with basic command-line work. DISM is a powerful way to address core issues without third-party tools.

System File Checker — SFC Fix for Kernel Security Check Failure On Windows 10

Now that the system image has been repaired with DISM, the next task is to check for any corrupted system files. These are often the hidden cause behind persistent errors like the Kernel Security Check Failure. Windows includes a tool called System File Checker, or SFC, to scan and fix them automatically. It’s a quick way to restore missing or damaged files without reinstalling the OS.

Steps to Clear Kernel Security Check Failure Using System File Checker:

System File Checker dives into your core Windows files and replaces anything that’s damaged or missing. Here’s how to run it safely and effectively.

Step 1: Open the Start menu and search for Command Prompt, right-click it, and choose “Run as administrator”.

Step 2: In the Command Prompt window, type:

sfc /scannow

Then hit Enter. Windows will scan your system for missing or corrupted files and automatically repair them.

Step 3: Once the scan’s done, go ahead and restart your PC, this helps lock in the repairs and gives your system a clean slate to boot from.

Ease of Use: Useful for those experiencing frequent system errors or crashes after updates.

Hardware Check — Advanced Fix for Kernel Security Check Failure On Windows 10

If none of the software tools have solved the problem, your system might be dealing with something deeper, hardware. Issues like failing RAM, a worn-out hard drive, or even overheating components can all trigger the kernel security check failure Windows 10 error. These problems can feel intimidating, but they’re not impossible to fix if you take a careful, step-by-step approach.

Steps to Clear Kernel Security Check Failure Using Windows Memory Diagnostic:

If you suspect faulty RAM is behind the crash, Windows has a built-in tool to help. Here’s how to use Windows Memory Diagnostic to scan for memory issues.

Step 1: Open the Start Menu and type “Windows Memory Diagnostic” into the search bar.

Step 2: When it pops up, open the tool and choose “Restart now and check for problems”.

Step 3: Your PC will reboot and run a memory test on its own. Just let it do its thing and wait for the results.

Ease Of Use: Best suited to advanced users or when guided by a technician. However, if you’re confident, it’s doable even for home users willing to follow instructions carefully.

Comparison

Now that you’ve seen the main fixes for Kernel Security Check Failure, let’s compare them. Each method has its pros, depending on how comfortable you are with tech. The table below breaks down their difficulty, tools needed, and who they’re best for, so you can pick what works best for you.

WPS Office — Recommended Tool to Document Kernel Security Fix Steps On Windows 10

Once you’ve sorted out the Kernel Security Check Failure issue, it’s worth taking a moment to document what worked if it was a DISM scan, replacing RAM, or reinstalling drivers. These are the fixes you’ll want to remember. Rather than relying on paper notes or scattered screenshots, it helps to store everything in one organized, searchable file. That’s where something like WPS Office fits in. It’s lightweight, familiar, and perfect for saving logs or step-by-step notes without slowing your system. It’s basically your digital repair journal.

WPS Office is the perfect companion here. It gives you tools to:

• Record Diagnostic Logs: After spending time troubleshooting, it’s easy to forget the exact steps you took or commands you ran. With WPS Writer, you can keep a detailed, organized log of everything. This way, if the issue comes back or you need to help someone else, all your notes are in one place.

• Backup Files and Settings: Don’t wait for another system failure to remind you about backups. WPS Spreadsheet makes it simple to create a list of your installed apps, license keys, custom settings, and important files. It’s a smart way to prepare for future problems, or just to stay organized if you ever reset your system.

• Create Step-by-Step Tutorials: If you ever want to share what you’ve learned with friends, colleagues, or your future self, WPS Presentation is a great tool. You can build clear, visual walkthroughs of the fixes you applied, complete with screenshots and notes, turning your tech headaches into useful how-to guides.

FAQs

Q1: Is Kernel Security Check Failure fixable without reinstalling Windows?

Yes, absolutely. Most cases can be solved with DISM, SFC, or simple driver and hardware checks.

Q2: Does this error always mean hardware is damaged?

Not necessarily. In fact, most users find that outdated drivers or system file corruption are to blame.

Q3: Can I prevent this BSOD from happening again?

Yes. Keep your drivers updated, avoid forced shutdowns, and regularly run system checks or antivirus scans.

Fixing Kernel Errors the Smart Way

Dealing with the Kernel Security Check Failure Windows 10 error doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. From quick restarts to deeper system repairs and hardware checks, there’s a fix for every level of user. Once your PC is stable again, it’s a good idea to keep track of what worked and back up your setup. WPS Office makes that part easy, giving you a simple way to document, organize, and stay ready for next time. A little prep now can save a lot of stress down the line.