How to fix
Gdrv2.sys “A driver cannot load on this device” error
on Windows

Every time I start my computer, I get a message saying that the Gdrv2.sys driver can't load on my device. I'm using a Gigabyte system with Windows 11, and I'm not sure if it's something serious or how to fix it. Is there a way to stop it?

The "A driver cannot load on this device" error message for Gdrv2.sys may be concerning to users, especially when it is continuously shown after restarting Windows. The message typically indicates that a kernel-mode driver such as Gdrv2.sys has been terminated by the operating system due to compatibility or security problems. It is typically linked with software produced by Gigabyte, as Gdrv2.sys is linked to Gigabyte tools such as App Center, EasyTune, or System Information Viewer (SIV).

The issue arises if Windows detects that the driver lacks the security level of today, particularly those introduced with Windows 11's Kernel-mode Hardware-enforced Stack Protection or Memory Integrity features. What this means is that while the Gigabyte software functions otherwise normally, its Gdrv2.sys module doesn't meet the stringent code-signing or integrity rules applied by Windows 11 security.

Similar driver blocking errors have been observed with other system-level utilities from hardware vendors. For example, issues have been reported with AsrDrv103.sys from ASRock tools, MSIAfterburner.sys from MSI Afterburner, and RTCore64.sys from RivaTuner. These drivers are often flagged after a Windows update strengthens driver enforcement rules or tightens Memory Integrity enforcement.

In most cases, this warning won’t cause system instability, but it may prevent certain Gigabyte software functions from working correctly. Some users choose to disable Memory Integrity to bypass the warning, though this comes at the cost of lowering system security. Others prefer to update or remove the offending software entirely.

When you're unsure about what’s triggering the problem or how to safely resolve it, using a trusted PC repair utility like [d1] can help detect outdated or blocked drivers and offer safe ways to correct these system-level issues automatically.

Fix 1. Update Gigabyte utilities

Outdated versions of Gigabyte software may use older drivers like Gdrv2.sys that are not compliant with Windows 11 security standards. Updating the software can install a newer, signed driver that Windows accepts.

• Visit the official Gigabyte support website.
• Search for your motherboard or system model (if using laptop).
• Download the latest version of the Gigabyte App Center or related utility.
• Install the updated version and restart the computer.

Fix 2. Uninstall the problematic Gigabyte tool

If you don’t need the Gigabyte software, removing it entirely will stop the Gdrv2.sys driver from attempting to load, eliminating the error message.

• Right-click on Start and pick Settings, then go to Apps.
• Click on Installed apps or Apps & features.
• Find Gigabyte App Center, EasyTune, or SIV in the list.
• Click Uninstall and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Restart the system after uninstallation.

Fix 3. Disable Memory Integrity

Windows 11 blocks certain drivers when Memory Integrity is enabled, to prevent potential vulnerabilities. Disabling this feature may allow the Gdrv2.sys driver to load, though it will reduce system protection.

Windows 11

• Right-click on Start and pick Settings.
• Go to Privacy & Security.
• Click Windows Security and open Device Security.
• Under Core Isolation, click Core isolation details.
• Toggle Memory Integrity off and restart your PC.

Windows 10

• Open Settings.
• Navigate to Update & Security, then to Windows Security.
• Select Device security.
• Scroll down to the Core isolation section.
• Click Core isolation details.
• Under Memory integrity, ensure the switch is set to the OFF position.

Fix 4. Check for driver signature enforcement

Gdrv2.sys may be blocked due to missing or expired digital signatures. Verifying the driver’s status can confirm if this is the issue.

• Press Win + R, type sigverif, and press Enter.
• Click Start to begin scanning system files.
• Wait for the scan to finish and review any unsigned drivers.
• If Gdrv2.sys is listed, remove or replace the software that uses it.

Fix 5. Use SFC and DISM

Corruption in system files can interfere with driver validation, causing load failures. Scanning and repairing system files may resolve the problem.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and pick Run as administrator.
• User Account Control will ask whether you want to allow changes – click Yes.
• Then, copy and paste the following command, pressing Enter after:
  sfc /scannow
• Wait till the scan is finished. If Windows finds system file integrity violations, it will attempt to fix them. After this, use the set of the following commands, pressing Enter each time:
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  
• (Note: if you get an error executing this last command, add /Source:C:\RepairSource\Windows /LimitAccess to it and try again.)
• Close down the Command Prompt and reboot your computer.

Fix 6. Perform a System Restore

System Restore can be used to restore Windows to a prior state if the problem continues.

• Type Create a restore point in the Windows search bar and open it.
• Click on System Restore.
• In the new window, click Next or Choose a different restore point.
• If available, mark the More restore points checkbox.
• Select the point in time when the issue did not exist and click Next.
• Finally, click Finish.
• After restarting, check if the driver issue is resolved.