There are a lot of different components in our computers that protect the system’s data from hackers. In addition to the popular TPM 2.0 module, many computers also have a PCI encryption/decryption module to keep your data safe from local or offline attacks. 

In this article, we’re looking at how you can fix any issues with your PCI encryption/decryption controller and get it working again. 

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What is a PCI encryption/decryption controller?

PCI controllers are generally built into the motherboard and provide an interface between the PCI bus and the operating system. Since the data flowing through a PCI controller is extremely sensitive (as it deals with many hardware instructions), it must be protected against interceptions.

Having a PCI controller onboard can be helpful as it not only enhances the security and privacy of your system on a hardware level but also helps pass hardware certifications to keep consumers safe.

There are several reasons why a PCI controller might stop working out of the blue, including:

• Outdated drivers
• Outdated Windows version
• Malware infections
• Hardware flaws
• Incompatible chipset drivers

Also read: Windows error 0xc8000442: 6 Fixes

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Update your PC 

The first thing you should do is to update your PC. Updating your PC will, in most cases, update your drivers and fix any issues in the process.

Check out this detailed guide to know how to update your PC here

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Update your drivers

Updating (or uninstalling the problematic driver can also fix the PCI encryption/decryption controller problem.

Step 1: Right-click Start and select Device Manager from the menu.

Step 2: Expand the problematic driver, right-click on it and click Update driver. 

Step 3: Click on Search automatically for drivers. Windows will then automatically look for and download the latest drivers.

While this should help resolve any errors with the PCI module, if it doesn’t, click Uninstall device and restart your PC to force Windows to install the required drivers. You can then update them later. 

Also read: How to delete Quick Search?

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Update the chipset driver

As the PCI encryption/decryption controller is built directly into the motherboard, updating the chipset drivers will resolve any issues with the controller in most cases. 

Depending on your chipset manufacturer (Intel or AMD), you’ll have to figure out which version of the driver you need. You can do this by searching your processor’s chipset name on the manufacturer’s website, which should point you in the right direction. Also, ensure that you’re getting the correct infrastructure (x86 or x64).

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Run the Windows hardware troubleshooter

Windows comes with a few handy troubleshooters that can resolve many issues. However, for some reason, Microsoft has removed the hardware troubleshooter from the troubleshooter’s menu. So here’s an alternative way to run the hardware troubleshooter. 

Step 1: Press the Windows key + R to open the Run prompt. Type cmd and hit enter.

Step 2: Type msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic and press enter. This will launch the hardware troubleshooter. 

Proceed along as instructed by the troubleshooter.

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Repair your system

If nothing else works, simply reinstalling or repairing your OS is the best way to eliminate the PCI encryption/decryption controller error. 

The Windows Media Creation tool is a great way to install Windows and repair the OS. Using this, you can perform a clean installation or repair your OS without affecting your data.

You can download the Media Creation Tool here

Also read: What is the IoT hidden menu?