Blog

How to Fix the Windows 11 LSA Bug: Step-by-Step Guide to Solve Error and Keep Your System Secure

Windows 11 users sometimes experience issues related to the Local Security Authority (LSA) bug. This problem can cause errors that affect system security and stability. Fixing the LSA bug is important to keep your system running smoothly and protect your data.

This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step instructions to resolve the LSA bug on Windows 11. Each step is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along.

By following these steps carefully, you can fix the error and maintain your system’s security. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.

Remember, patience and attention to detail are key when troubleshooting system issues.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Checks Before You Begin

  • Backup Important Data: Before making any system changes, back up your files to avoid data loss.
  • Check Windows Updates: Make sure your system is up-to-date by visiting Settings > Windows Update. Sometimes updates include fixes for bugs.
  • Run Antivirus Scan: Malware can cause security-related errors. Run a full scan using Windows Defender or another trusted antivirus program.
  • Ensure Administrative Rights: You need administrator privileges to perform the steps below.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches causing the LSA bug. Restarting refreshes system files and processes.

  1. Click the Start button.
  2. Select Power and then click Restart.
  3. After your PC restarts, check if the error still appears.

If the problem persists, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

The System File Checker tool scans your Windows system files for corruption and repairs them. This can fix issues caused by damaged files related to the LSA bug.

  1. Press Windows + S and type cmd.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  3. In the command window, type the following and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This scan may take several minutes. Wait until it finishes and shows a message about any repairs made.

Restart your PC and check if the error is resolved.

Step 3: Use the DISM Tool to Repair System Image

If the SFC scan didn’t fix the issue, use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool. This tool repairs the Windows system image, which may resolve deeper problems.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator as explained in Step 2.
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands check for corruption and repair it if found. The process may take some time.

Restart your computer after the commands complete and verify if the LSA error is gone.

Step 4: Check and Reset LSA Protection Settings

Windows 11 includes a security feature called LSA Protection that prevents unauthorized access to sensitive processes. Sometimes this setting can cause issues if misconfigured.

Follow these steps to check and reset the LSA Protection setting:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to this key:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlLsa
  4. Look for a DWORD entry named RunAsPPL.
  5. If it exists and is set to 1, right-click and select Modify. Change the value to 0.
  6. If it doesn’t exist, no change is needed here.
  7. Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC.

Changing this setting disables LSA Protection, which might fix the bug but lowers security. Only do this temporarily to test.

Step 5: Update Windows and Drivers

Outdated system files or drivers can cause conflicts with security processes like LSA. Keeping everything updated is crucial.

  1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
  3. Also, update device drivers using Device Manager:
  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand categories like Security devices or System devices.
  3. Right-click each device and choose Update driver.

Restart after installing updates and check if the error persists.

Alternative Method: Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with only essential services. This helps identify if third-party software is causing the LSA bug.

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check Hide all Microsoft services.
  4. Click Disable all.
  5. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  6. Disable all startup items.
  7. Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
  8. Restart your PC and see if the issue is resolved.

If the error disappears, enable services and startup items one by one to find the culprit.

FAQs

What is the LSA bug in Windows 11?

The LSA bug refers to errors related to the Local Security Authority, a core Windows process managing security policies. Bugs here can cause system instability or security risks.

Is it safe to disable LSA Protection?

Disabling LSA Protection can help troubleshoot the issue but reduces system security. Only disable it temporarily and re-enable it after fixing the problem.

Can malware cause LSA errors?

Yes, malware can interfere with LSA processes. Running a full antivirus scan is strongly recommended before troubleshooting.

Will updating Windows fix the LSA bug?

Sometimes. Microsoft often releases patches that address such bugs, so keeping your system updated is important.

Do I need technical skills to follow these steps?

The instructions are designed to be simple and detailed. Basic familiarity with Windows is helpful, but anyone can follow along carefully.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and the LSA bug still persists, consider these final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for professional help.
  • Use System Restore: Restore your PC to a point before the issue started. Search for System Restore in Windows and follow instructions.
  • Reset Windows 11: As a last resort, reset your system while keeping your files. Go to Settings > System > Recovery and select Reset PC.

Be sure to back up important data before using restore or reset options.

Conclusion

Fixing the Windows 11 LSA bug is essential for maintaining your system’s security and stability. Starting with simple steps like restarting and running system scans can often solve the problem. If needed, adjusting registry settings or performing a clean boot can help isolate and fix deeper issues.

Always keep your system and drivers updated, and run regular antivirus scans to prevent security bugs. If you get stuck, Microsoft support and system restore options are available to assist.

By following this guide carefully, you can resolve the LSA bug and keep your Windows 11 PC running safely and smoothly.

Leave a Reply