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10h ago

Windows 11 Update Causes Game Crashes Linked to RGB Driver

Microsoft says a kernel-level RGB driver conflict is behind the crashes and has published a temporary registry fix as it develops a permanent patch.

A closeup of a PC build with lots of RGB lighting in an In Win PC case, this is an example of the kind of PC build you could put together if you're out of the budget realm.
A gaming PC with RGB lighting enabled on a desk.
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Overview

  • The August 11, 2026 Windows 11 update KB5121003 triggered reports of games freezing, EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION errors, and unexpected restarts on affected PCs.
  • Microsoft traced the failures to kernel-mode RGB drivers with names like inpoutx64.sys and confirmed those drivers can trigger crashes when certain multiplayer games start.
  • Microsoft published an official temporary workaround that disables inpoutx64 by setting HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\inpoutx64 Start to 4 and asked users to file Feedback Hub reports.
  • Developers including Embark Studios corroborated Microsoft’s finding and suggested removing the driver, using universal RGB controllers such as SignalRGB or OpenRGB, or rolling back the update while a permanent fix is prepared.
  • The issue highlights how kernel-level third-party drivers can clash with Windows 11 kernel changes or anti-cheat behavior and forces users to trade RGB functionality for game stability until a full patch arrives.