The KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) in Windows is a frustrating error that can halt your workflow and create system instability. This error typically points to corrupted system files, outdated drivers, or memory issues. Fortunately, there are several proven methods to fix it. In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step solutions to fix KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE BSOD in Windows.
What Causes KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE BSOD?
Understanding the causes can help prevent future errors. Common reasons include:
- Corrupt or outdated drivers
- Memory (RAM) issues
- Corrupted system files or Windows image
- Hard drive errors
- Overclocking or BIOS incompatibility
Step 1: Update Windows
- Press
Win + I
→ Update & Security → Windows Update. - Click Check for updates and install all available updates.
- Restart your computer.
Keeping Windows updated ensures you have the latest security patches and driver improvements.
Step 2: Update Device Drivers
- Press
Win + X
→ Device Manager. - Expand categories such as Display adapters, Network adapters, and Storage controllers.
- Right-click each device → Update driver → Search automatically for drivers.
For GPU drivers, download the latest version directly from NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel for best compatibility.
Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) & DISM
Corrupt system files or Windows components can cause this BSOD. Run these commands:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type:
sfc /scannow
– This scans and repairs corrupted system files. - Then run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
– DISM repairs the Windows image to ensure stability.
Step 4: Check Your Hard Drive
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Enter:
chkdsk C: /f /r
- Press Y if asked to schedule a check at next restart.
- Restart your PC to let Windows scan and repair your disk.
Step 5: Test Your RAM
- Press
Win + R
→ typemdsched.exe
→ Enter. - Choose Restart now and check for problems.
- Your PC will restart and run a memory test. Replace any faulty RAM if errors are detected.
Step 6: Perform a Clean Boot
- Press
Win + R
→ typemsconfig
→ Enter. - Go to Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
- In the Startup tab, open Task Manager → disable all startup items.
- Restart your PC and see if the BSOD persists.
Step 7: Optional – Restore or Reset Windows
- System Restore: Press
Win + R
, typerstrui
, and restore your PC to a point before the error. - Reset this PC: Go to
Settings → Update & Security → Recovery → Reset this PC
.
One-Click Fix: Automated Command Sequence
For convenience, you can run a single command sequence that handles system file repair, disk check, and memory diagnostics:
:: 1. Repair system files
sfc /scannow
:: 2. Fix Windows image
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
:: 3. Check disk for errors
chkdsk C: /f /r
:: 4. Schedule memory diagnostic
mdsched.exe
This sequence addresses the main causes of KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE BSOD in Windows in one go.
Tips to Prevent Future BSODs
- Keep Windows and drivers updated.
- Avoid overclocking CPU or GPU.
- Regularly check disk and RAM health.
- Use antivirus software to prevent malware-related file corruption.
Conclusion
The KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) in Windows is usually caused by drivers, memory, or system file issues. By following the steps above—updating Windows, checking drivers, running SFC/DISM, verifying RAM and disk health, and optionally performing a clean boot—you can effectively fix the BSOD and restore system stability.