How to Fix ks.sys BSOD Error on Windows 10 & 11

The ks.sys file is a critical system driver in Windows responsible for managing audio and multimedia tasks, particularly related to the Kernel Streaming (KS) architecture. When this file encounters issuessuch as corruption, conflicts with hardware or software, or problems with driversit can trigger a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), often accompanied by an error message like “CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED” or “SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION.” This article explains what causes the ks.sys BSOD and provides step-by-step solutions to resolve it on Windows 10 and 11.

Why Does ks.sys Cause BSOD?

The ks.sys driver is part of the Windows operating system and works with audio devices, multimedia applications, and other hardware components. A BSOD related to this file typically occurs due to:

Corrupted or outdated drivers: Outdated or incompatible drivers for audio, graphics, or network adapters can conflict with ks.sys.
Hardware issues
: Faulty audio devices (e.g., sound cards, microphones) or memory problems may trigger errors in the driver.
Malware or system corruption: Viruses or corrupted system files can disrupt the functionality of ks.sys.
Windows updates or driver conflicts: Recent Windows updates or third-party drivers may introduce incompatibilities.
Overheating or overheating hardware: Overheating can cause instability in system drivers, including ks.sys.

How to Fix ks.sys BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

Method 1: Update or Reinstall Audio Drivers

Outdated or faulty audio drivers are a common cause of ks.sys-related BSODs. Follow these steps to update or reinstall them:

Open Device Manager: Press Windows + X, then select Device Manager.
Locate Audio, Video, and Game Controllers: Expand the category and right-click on your audio device (e.g., “Realtek Audio” or “High Definition Audio Controller”).
Uninstall the driver: Select Uninstall device, check Delete the driver software for this device, and confirm.
Restart your PC to let Windows reinstall the driver automatically. If no issues persist, proceed to download the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website (e.g., Intel, NVIDIA, or your motherboard/laptop brand).

Method 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can trigger BSODs. Use Windows’ built-in tools to repair them:

Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Press Windows + X, then select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
Run SFC Scan:
```
sfc /scannow
```
Wait for the scan to complete and restart your PC.
Run DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management):
```
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
```
This may take several minutes. Restart afterward.

Method 3: Check for Disk Errors with CHKDSK

If file system corruption is suspected, run CHKDSK to scan and repair disk errors:

Open Command Prompt as Administrator (as above).
Run CHKDSK with the following command:
```
chkdsk C: /f /r
```
Replace “C:” with your system drive if needed. Press Enter, then type Y to confirm.
Restart your PC and check for improvements.

Method 4: Roll Back or Disable Problematic Drivers

If the BSOD started after a driver update, roll back or disable it:

Open Device Manager, expand your audio or problematic device category.
Right-click the driver and select Properties. Go to the Driver tab.
Click “Roll Back Driver” if available, then restart. If not, note the driver version and disable it temporarily.

Method 5: Update Windows and Check for Malware

Ensure your system is up to date and free of malware:

Update Windows: Go to Settings > Windows Update and install all pending updates.
Run a Malware Scan: Use Windows Defender or trusted antivirus software (e.g., Malwarebytes) to scan for threats.

Method 6: Check Hardware for Issues

Loose connections, overheating, or faulty hardware can cause ks.sys errors. Ensure:

All cables (audio jacks, RAM) are securely connected.
Your PC is not overheating (clean fans and reapply thermal paste if needed).
No hardware conflicts exist (e.g., multiple audio devices enabled simultaneously).

FAQ About ks.sys BSOD

Is ks.sys a virus?
No, ks.sys is a legitimate Windows system file. However, malware can disguise itself with similar names, so scan your PC if you suspect an infection.
Can I safely delete ks.sys?
Nodeleting or modifying this file manually can break your system. Always use trusted tools like SFC or DISM to repair it.
Will a clean install fix the issue?
A clean install may resolve deep-seated issues, but try the steps above first. Back up your data before proceeding.
Why does this happen only with certain apps?
Some applications (e.g., audio editors or games) heavily rely on ks.sys. Conflicts arise if those apps or their drivers are outdated or misconfigured.

Preventing Future ks.sys BSODs

To avoid recurring issues:

Regularly update Windows and drivers (especially audio-related ones).
Use trusted sources for driver downloads (e.g., manufacturer websites).
Monitor system temperatures to prevent overheating.
Run SFC/DISM scans monthly or after major updates.

If the problem persists, check Windows Event Viewer (eventvwr.msc) for detailed error logs or seek advanced support. Most users resolve this issue with driver updates or system file repairs, but severe cases may require hardware diagnostics.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Tested on: Windows 10 (22H2) & Windows 11 (23H2)