Fix Kernel Security Check Failure Windows 10

Kernel Security Check Failure is a Windows 10 Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) stop code that appears when the operating system’s kernel detects corrupted data, a faulty driver, or incompatible software. The fix usually involves updating or rolling back drivers, running system file checks, and scanning for memory or disk errors. Below is a step-by-step guide to resolve the error, along with background on what causes it and how to prevent it from recurring.

What Is the Kernel Security Check Failure Error?

The stop code KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE (0x00000139) is a bug check that Windows triggers when the kernel finds that a security check it relies on has failed. This is a broad error—it does not point to one specific component. Instead, it signals that something at the core of the system is misbehaving. Common triggers include:

• Outdated, corrupt, or incompatible device drivers (especially graphics, network, or storage drivers).
• Faulty RAM or a failing hard drive/SSD.
• Corrupted system files or a damaged Windows registry.
• Malware or antivirus software that interferes with kernel operations.
• Overheating or power supply issues that cause hardware instability.

Because the error is generic, the solution often requires a process of elimination. The steps below are ordered from the most common and easiest fixes to the more advanced ones.

Before You Start: Boot Into Safe Mode

If the BSOD appears repeatedly and prevents you from reaching the desktop, you will need to boot into Safe Mode. Safe Mode loads only essential drivers, which often lets you log in and perform repairs.

1. Restart your PC. As soon as the Windows logo appears, press and hold the power button to force shutdown. Repeat this three times.
2. On the fourth restart, Windows should enter the Automatic Repair screen.
3. Click Advanced options → Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.
4. After the restart, press 4 or F4 to choose Enable Safe Mode.

Once in Safe Mode, proceed with the fixes below. If you can boot normally, you can skip this step.

Fix 1: Run the System File Checker and DISM

Corrupted system files are a leading cause of this error. Windows includes two built-in tools to find and repair them.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (search “cmd,� right-click, and select Run as administrator).
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This scans protected system files and replaces damaged ones. It can take 10–20 minutes.
3. After it finishes, run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. This repairs the Windows image itself. It may take longer.
4. Restart your PC and check if the error is gone.

If SFC reports that it could not fix some files, running DISM first and then SFC again often resolves the issue.

Fix 2: Update or Roll Back Device Drivers

Drivers are the most common culprit. A recently installed driver may be buggy, or an old driver may be incompatible with a Windows update.

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand categories like Display adapters, Network adapters, and Storage controllers.
3. Right-click each device and choose Update driver → Search automatically for drivers.
4. If you recently updated a driver and the error started after that, go to the driver’s Properties → Driver tab and click Roll Back Driver.

Pay special attention to graphics card drivers (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) and chipset drivers. Use the manufacturer’s website to download the latest stable version if Windows Update does not find one.

Fix 3: Check for Memory and Disk Errors

Faulty RAM or a failing hard drive can cause the kernel to receive corrupted data, triggering this stop code.

Memory Diagnostic

1. Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
2. Choose Restart now and check for problems.
3. Windows will run a memory test and restart automatically. If errors are found, you may need to replace the faulty RAM stick.

Check Disk

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Type chkdsk C: /f /r and press Enter.
3. If prompted to schedule a scan on restart, type Y and restart. The scan will check for bad sectors and file system errors.

Note that chkdsk can take a while on large drives. Let it finish completely.

Fix 4: Run a Clean Boot to Isolate Software Conflicts

Sometimes third-party software—especially antivirus, VPNs, or system utilities—interferes with the kernel. A clean boot starts Windows with only the essential drivers and services.

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
3. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager. Disable all startup items.
4. Click OK and restart. If the error stops, re-enable services one by one to find the culprit.

If you identify a problematic program, update it, reinstall it, or remove it.

Fix 5: Update Windows and Check for Overheating

Microsoft regularly patches bugs that cause BSODs. Make sure you have the latest updates installed.

1. Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates and install all pending updates.

Overheating can also cause kernel errors. Use a free tool like HWMonitor to check CPU and GPU temperatures. If they exceed 90°C under load, clean dust from fans and ensure proper ventilation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Kernel Security Check Failure be caused by a virus?

Yes, malware that hooks into kernel functions can trigger this error. Run a full scan with Windows Defender or a reputable third-party antivirus. If your system is already infected, boot into Safe Mode with Networking and run an offline scan.

Will I lose my files if I fix this error?

No, the fixes above are non-destructive. They do not delete personal files. However, if you need to use System Restore (another option), it may remove recently installed programs but will not touch your documents. Always back up important data before making major changes.

Is Kernel Security Check Failure the same as a hardware failure?

Not necessarily. It is often caused by software, but it can indicate failing hardware. If the error persists after all software fixes, test your RAM and hard drive as described above. If those pass, consider checking the power supply or motherboard.

How do I fix the error if I can’t boot into Windows at all?

Use the Advanced Startup options (as described in the Safe Mode section) to access Command Prompt and run SFC and DISM. If that fails, you may need to use a Windows 10 installation USB to perform a startup repair or reinstall Windows.

Should I reset Windows to fix this error?

Resetting Windows (Settings → Update & Security → Recovery → Reset this PC) can fix persistent BSODs, but it is a last resort. It reinstalls the OS and can keep your files if you choose the “Keep my files� option. Only do this after trying the other fixes.

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