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How to Fix Incompatible Driver Causing Memory Integrity Error in Windows 11

Memory Integrity is a security feature in Windows 11 that helps protect your system from malicious software by ensuring drivers and system files are trustworthy. Sometimes, incompatible drivers can cause errors related to Memory Integrity, preventing this feature from working properly.

This article will guide you step-by-step on how to identify and fix incompatible drivers causing Memory Integrity errors in Windows 11. The instructions are designed to be simple and clear, even if you are new to troubleshooting Windows.

By following these steps, you can improve your system’s security and stability. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.

Understanding why a driver is incompatible will help you avoid similar problems in the future.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Checks

  • Check Windows Update: Make sure your Windows 11 is fully updated. Sometimes, Microsoft releases patches that fix driver compatibility issues.
  • Create a System Restore Point: Before making changes, create a restore point. This lets you undo changes if something goes wrong.
  • Note the Error Message: Write down or screenshot the exact Memory Integrity error message if it appears. This helps in identifying the problematic driver.
  • Backup Important Files: Always back up your important documents and files before doing system repairs.

Step 1: Check Which Driver is Causing the Issue

The first step is to find out which driver is incompatible and causing the Memory Integrity error.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Privacy & security from the left menu.
  3. Select Device security.
  4. Under Core isolation, click Core isolation details.
  5. If Memory Integrity is turned off due to incompatible drivers, you will see a message listing the problematic drivers.

Knowing which drivers are incompatible is important because you will focus on updating or removing them next.

Step 2: Update or Uninstall the Problematic Driver

Updating drivers can often solve compatibility problems. If updating is not possible, uninstalling the driver might be necessary.

To Update Drivers:

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Find the device related to the incompatible driver. You can usually tell by the driver name noted in the error message.
  3. Right-click the device and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for the latest driver online and install it.
  5. Restart your computer after the update.

To Uninstall Drivers:

  1. Open Device Manager as described above.
  2. Right-click the device with the incompatible driver.
  3. Select Uninstall device.
  4. Confirm the uninstallation and restart your computer.

After uninstalling, Windows may automatically install a compatible generic driver, or you can manually install a newer stable driver from the manufacturer’s website.

Step 3: Disable Memory Integrity Temporarily

If you need to use your PC immediately and cannot fix the driver right away, you can temporarily disable Memory Integrity.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Navigate to Privacy & security > Device security > Core isolation details.
  3. Toggle off Memory Integrity.
  4. Restart your computer.

Remember, this reduces your system’s protection, so only do this temporarily while troubleshooting.

Step 4: Use Windows Security to Scan for Driver Issues

Windows Security can help detect and sometimes repair problems related to drivers and system files.

  1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
  2. Go to Device performance & health.
  3. Look for any warnings or issues related to drivers and follow the suggested fixes.

This can help identify deeper problems that may not be obvious.

Alternative Method: Use the System File Checker (SFC)

If driver files are corrupted, running the System File Checker can repair them.

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This process will scan system files and fix any corrupted files that might affect driver compatibility.

FAQs

Why does Memory Integrity disable itself due to drivers?

Memory Integrity requires all drivers to be compatible and secure. If Windows detects an incompatible or unsigned driver, it disables Memory Integrity to prevent system instability.

Can I manually update drivers from the manufacturer’s website?

Yes, downloading drivers directly from the manufacturer ensures you get the latest and compatible versions, especially for hardware like graphics cards and network adapters.

Will uninstalling a driver cause hardware to stop working?

Uninstalling a driver may temporarily disable the device, but Windows often installs a generic driver automatically after a restart, allowing basic functionality.

Is it safe to disable Memory Integrity?

Disabling it reduces your system’s protection and is not recommended long-term. Use it only as a temporary measure while fixing driver issues.

How can I find out if my driver is signed or not?

You can check driver signatures by opening Device Manager, right-clicking the device, selecting Properties, then navigating to the Driver tab and clicking Driver Details. Signed drivers usually indicate a verified publisher.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and Memory Integrity still won’t enable, consider the following options:

  • Contact Manufacturer Support: Reach out to your PC or hardware manufacturer for updated drivers or support.
  • Visit Microsoft Support: Use the official Microsoft Support website for additional troubleshooting guides.
  • Reset Windows 11: As a last resort, resetting Windows can fix deep system issues, but make sure to backup your data first.

Conclusion

Fixing incompatible drivers causing Memory Integrity errors in Windows 11 is essential to keep your system secure. Start by identifying the problematic drivers, then update or uninstall them as needed. Use built-in Windows tools like Device Manager, Windows Security, and System File Checker to assist your troubleshooting.

Always keep your system updated and avoid disabling Memory Integrity unless absolutely necessary. With patience and careful steps, you can resolve these errors and maintain a safer Windows environment.

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