How to Resolve Interception Driver Launch Error

If you’ve encountered an Interception Driver launch error, you’re not alone. This issue typically arises when software or drivers conflict with input control layers of Windows – particularly those trying to modify or adapt keyboard and mouse input. Whether you’re a developer using low-level input APIs or a gamer attempting to use specialized software, understanding and resolving this error is crucial to restoring full system functionality and avoiding further complications.

TL;DR

The Interception Driver launch error is commonly caused by driver signature conflicts, incompatible Windows updates, or incorrect driver installations. To resolve it, you should verify driver signatures, uninstall and reinstall the Interception Driver correctly, and make sure Windows security settings aren’t blocking the driver. Safe Mode and Group Policy settings may also help in stubborn cases.

What Is the Interception Driver?

The Interception Driver is a low-level system driver used by software that requires input control at a kernel level — most notably, tools like keyboard remappers, custom automation software, and some specialized developer utilities. It operates beneath typical input layers, meaning it has elevated permissions and often operates invisibly to the user interface. This also means that modern operating systems, which aggressively protect against unsigned or unauthorized drivers, may block or disable it during boot or installation.

Common Symptoms of a Launch Error

An error message during boot or software launch reading: “Failed to install Interception Driver”.
Input devices (keyboard or mouse) not functioning with software designed to leverage the Interception Driver.
Silent failure – where software doesn’t open or work as intended without clear notification.
BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) moments after driver attempts to load (rarer but more serious).

Why This Happens

There are several key reasons this error might appear:

Driver signature enforcement by Windows: Windows 10 and above strictly block unsigned or modified drivers unless Secure Boot is disabled or the driver is properly signed.
Corrupted or incomplete installation packages: If installation packages are broken, missing files, or if the installation was interrupted, the driver may not launch properly.
Conflicting programs or driver-level software: Other drivers that control input devices could conflict with the Interception Driver.
Windows Updates: Critical updates, especially security-focused ones, can introduce conflicts or reset permissions and driver trust settings.

How to Resolve a Launch Error

1. Verify Driver Signatures Using Command Prompt

Before diving into reinstallation, it’s wise to verify whether the issue stems from a driver signature failure. To do this:

Open the Command Prompt as Administrator.
Type bcdedit /enum and press Enter.
Look for the entry testsigning. If it’s No, Windows will block unsigned drivers.

If needed, enable test mode:

bcdedit /set testsigning on

Reboot your PC afterward. This mode allows unsigned drivers to be installed temporarily. When finished, you can disable it again using:

bcdedit /set testsigning off

2. Reinstall the Interception Driver Properly

Often, a fresh start solves the issue. Carefully follow these steps:

Step 1: Download the latest Interception Driver package from a trusted repository or official developer channel.
Step 2: Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Step 3: Navigate to the extracted driver directory and run the installation script. Typically, it looks like this:
install-interception.exe /install
Step 4: Monitor the result. If the driver still fails, consider running the installer with test mode enabled or from Safe Mode.

Always make sure you’re using the official and unmodified version of the driver. Modified versions are frequently blocked by Windows or can introduce instability.

3. Disable Secure Boot Temporarily

Secure Boot, enabled by default on most UEFI systems, can block drivers at a low level. Disabling it may temporarily allow a successful Interception Driver launch:

Access your BIOS/UEFI settings during system boot (commonly via DEL, ESC, or F2).
Locate the Secure Boot option, usually under Security or Boot Configuration.
Set it to Disabled and save your settings.
Reboot and reinstall the Interception Driver.

Note: Disabling Secure Boot reduces your system’s protection against rogue drivers. Only attempt this temporarily and re-enable it once the driver is installed and verified.

4. Try Installation in Safe Mode

Sometimes, running the installer in full Windows creates permission conflicts. Safe Mode reduces system-level interference:

Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and enter.
Go to the Boot tab and check Safe boot. Choose Minimal.
Reboot your system; it will enter Safe Mode.
Install the Interception Driver via the administrative Command Prompt.

After a successful install, repeat the process to disable Safe Mode and return to normal startup.

Alternative Solutions and Workarounds

1. Modify Group Policy Settings

If you’re on Windows Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions, you can configure Group Policies to allow kernel-mode code signing and unsigned drivers.

Open gpedit.msc
Navigate to:
- Computer Configuration
- Administrative Templates
- System
- Driver Installation
Edit Code signing for device drivers and choose Ignore.

Restart your computer afterward and try installing the driver again.

2. Manually Add Driver Exceptions in Windows Defender

Modern Windows Defender or third-party antivirus suites can flag interception drivers as threats. To prevent deletion or blocking:

Open Windows Security
Go to Virus & threat protection > Manage settings
Under Exclusions, add the Interception Driver folder.

This ensures any subsequent security scans won’t remove or disable the driver again.

Preventive Measures Moving Forward

Always update drivers from official sources and subscribe to their release channels for compatibility notes.
Before installing OS updates, ensure driver support for the build version you’re moving to.
Keep backups of critical drivers in case of automatic overwrite during Windows maintenance.
Enable system restore points before major installations.

When to Seek Professional Help

If after multiple reinstallations and following the safe mode and signature override tactics, you’re still experiencing problems, it could indicate a deeper system-level integrity issue or even malware interference.

In such cases, consider:

Running a full system scan using trusted antivirus software.
Using Microsoft’s Driver Verifier tool to isolate startup issues related to drivers.
Consulting online forums such as StackOverflow or GitHub discussions specific to the software using the Interception Driver.

Conclusion

Resolving the Interception Driver launch error requires technical diligence but is very achievable with patience and the correct approach. From verifying driver signatures to Safe Mode installations and security exceptions, each step builds toward regaining full input-driver functionality.

Good driver hygiene not only prevents recurrence of such errors but also enhances overall system stability. Stay proactive, keep your system updated, and always vet sources before installing low-level software components.