kernel latency

Kernel latency refers to delays introduced by the Windows kernel that can cause audio pops, micro-stutters, and input freezes even when CPU and RAM usage appear normal. The tool LatencyMon is commonly used to diagnose these issues by measuring kernel timer and interrupt handling performance. Troubleshooting kernel latency often involves identifying problematic drivers or hardware that cause high Deferred Procedure Call (DPC) or Interrupt Service Routine (ISR) execution times. Reducing kernel latency can improve real-time performance for audio production, gaming, and other latency-sensitive tasks on Windows systems.