How to fix Error 340 on Windows 11

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Windows 11 Error 340: “The Supplied Kernel Information Version Is Invalid”

Why This Error Happens

Error 340 typically occurs when there is a mismatch between the Windows kernel version and the drivers or system files attempting to interface with it, often following an incomplete Windows Update or a botched driver installation. This can also result from corrupted system files in the WinSxS store or a kernel-mode driver that was compiled against a different Windows build than the one currently installed. In some cases, third-party virtualization or security software (like antivirus kernel hooks) fails to recognize the updated kernel version signature after a feature update.

Step-by-Step Resolution Guide

  1. Run the System File Checker (SFC) and DISM tools
    Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:
   sfc /scannow

Followed by:

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This repairs corrupted system files and restores the WinSxS component store, which often resolves kernel version mismatches.

  1. Update or Roll Back Recent Drivers
    Go to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates > Driver updates. If the error started after a driver update, open Device Manager, locate the recently updated driver (commonly display, storage, or virtualization drivers), right-click it, select Properties > Driver tab > Roll Back Driver.

  2. Check for Pending Windows Updates
    Navigate to Settings > Windows Update and ensure your system is fully patched. Partial updates can leave kernel files out of sync with associated drivers. Install any pending Cumulative or Feature Updates and restart.

  3. Uninstall Recently Added Virtualization or Security Software
    If you use Hyper-V, WSL2, VMware, or third-party antivirus with kernel-level hooks, temporarily disable or uninstall these via Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off (for Hyper-V/WSL) or the vendor’s uninstaller. Restart and check if Error 340 persists.

  4. Perform an In-Place Upgrade Repair
    If the error remains, download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from Microsoft’s official site and choose the “Keep personal files and apps” option. This refreshes all kernel-related system files without wiping your data.

Alternative or Verification Steps

  • Verify the fix: Open Event Viewer (eventvwr.msc), navigate to Windows Logs > System, and confirm Error 340 no longer appears after a fresh restart and triggering the action that previously caused it.
  • Alternative: If the error persists only within a specific application (e.g., a VM tool), check that application’s changelog for a kernel-compatible update, as it may need patching to support the current Windows 11 build version (run winver to confirm your build number).