0x80090304SystemHigh

Error 0x80090304 — Internal Error (SEC_E_INTERNAL_ERROR) | Windows System Error Fix

Windows 11Windows 10Windows Server 2022

What Does 0x80090304 Mean?

The Local Security Authority (LSA) encountered an internal error.

Real-World Causes

1Corrupted security database
2LSA process memory corruption
3Incompatible security update
4Third-party security software conflict

Symptoms

⚠Authentication fails with internal security error
⚠Cannot log in to domain
⚠Security-sensitive operations fail
⚠Kerberos ticket operations fail

DIY Fix

Beginner-friendly steps you can try at home

1Restart the computer
2Run 'sfc /scannow'
3Uninstall recently installed security updates if the error started after an update
4Disconnect from VPN and try local authentication

Advanced Fix

For experienced users and IT professionals

1Check the Security event log for detailed error information
2Reset the machine account with 'netdom resetpwd'
3Rejoin the domain if the trust relationship is broken

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Local Security Authority?

LSA (lsass.exe) is the Windows process responsible for enforcing security policy, authenticating users, and managing tokens. It is critical for all authentication operations. Errors in LSA can prevent login and access to resources.

Related Error Codes

0x80090020Internal Error (NTE_FAIL)0x80090305Security Package Not Found (SEC_E_SECPKG_NOT_FOUND)

About the Author

Windows Troubleshooting Team

Verified against official Microsoft documentation and real-world diagnostic data. Error behavior confirmed across Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server.