IRQL NOT LESS OR EQUAL: Fixing This BSOD Windows Error

Seeing the dreaded blue screen with the “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL” error can ruin anyone’s day. This common Windows stop code typically appears when a system process or driver tries to access a memory address without proper permissions. The error occurs when there’s a conflict between drivers, incompatible hardware, or corrupted system files that improperly attempt to access protected memory areas.

When this blue screen appears, your computer restarts unexpectedly, potentially causing lost work and frustration. It can happen on any Windows version – Windows 7, 10, or 11 – and usually indicates underlying issues with your system’s hardware compatibility, driver functionality, or memory modules. Many users report seeing this error during startup or when running specific applications.

The good news is that despite its technical-sounding name, this error can often be fixed with straightforward troubleshooting steps. From updating drivers to running system file checks, there are several approaches to resolve this issue and prevent it from occurring again in the future.

What Causes the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error?

This Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error often points to a serious issue with your system’s memory access. IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL occurs when a process tries to access a memory address it doesn’t have permission for. This is usually tied to device drivers, RAM issues, or even faulty system files. IRQL stands for Interrupt Request Level—a core part of how Windows prioritizes tasks. When a driver or kernel-mode process tries to access memory at an inappropriate IRQL, the system stops everything and throws this BSOD to prevent further damage.

Common causes include:

• Corrupt or outdated drivers
• Faulty or incompatible RAM
• Overclocking instability
• Malware or rootkits
• Corrupted system files
• Recently installed hardware or software

Let’s break down how to troubleshoot and fix each of these potential culprits.

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Frequent BSOD: IRQL NOT LESS OR EQUAL
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Step-by-Step Fixes for IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

1. Update or Roll Back Drivers

Most BSODs like this stem from driver issues—especially graphics, network, or chipset drivers.

• To update drivers:
  • Open Device Manager (Win + X > Device Manager)
  • Expand the categories (like “Display Adapters”)
  • Right-click the device and select Update Driver
• To roll back a driver (if the error started after an update):
  • Right-click the driver > Properties > Driver tab > Roll Back Driver

Focus first on GPU, Ethernet, and storage controllers. If you recently installed a new driver, that’s your top suspect.

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2. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

Bad RAM is a classic trigger for this error. To test your memory:

• Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter
• Choose Restart now and check for problems

Let it complete the scan (it may take 10–15 minutes). If any errors show up, you may need to replace your RAM stick(s).

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3. Scan for System File Corruption

Corrupted system files can throw off memory access permissions. Use the built-in tools to scan and repair them.

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator
• Type: sfc /scannow Let the scan finish. If issues are found, it’ll attempt to repair them.

If the problem persists, run:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This can fix deeper component issues.

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4. Uninstall Recently Added Software or Hardware

If this BSOD started right after installing something new, that’s a huge clue.

• Go to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a Program
• Sort by install date
• Uninstall anything that was added right before the crashes began

Also, disconnect any new USB or internal devices temporarily to rule out hardware faults.

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5. Check for Malware or Rootkits

Some malware can mess with system-level drivers and memory processes.

• Use Windows Security or a trusted third-party antivirus to do a full scan
• Consider running Microsoft Defender Offline Scan, which can detect rootkits and threats that load before Windows starts

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6. Disable Overclocking (If Enabled)

If you’ve overclocked your CPU, GPU, or RAM—even a little—roll everything back to default settings.

• Restart your PC and enter the BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing Delete or F2 at startup)
• Reset to Optimized Defaults or manually turn off overclocking settings

Instability from even a minor OC tweak can cause access violations at the kernel level.

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7. Use System Restore or Reset Windows

If nothing else works, restoring your system to an earlier point can help:

• Type rstrui into the Start Menu and press Enter
• Follow the prompts to restore to a date before the issue began

If that’s not available, consider resetting Windows:

• Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC

Choose Keep my files if you want to avoid losing data, but always back up just in case.

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Technical Tip: Analyze the Minidump File

If you’re comfortable with advanced troubleshooting, check the minidump file:

• Go to C:\Windows\Minidump
• Use a tool like BlueScreenView or WinDbg Preview to read the crash logs

These tools often point to the exact driver or file that caused the crash—cutting your troubleshooting time in half.

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Quick Troubleshooting Table

Fix Action	What It Targets	When to Use
Update Drivers	Device conflicts	After Windows or driver update
Memory Test	RAM issues	Random BSODs or crashes
SFC / DISM	Corrupted system files	After file cleanup, malware removal
System Restore	Software conflicts	After new installs
Malware Scan	Rootkits/viruses	Unexpected crashes or slowdowns
Disable OC	CPU/RAM instability	PC recently overclocked
Analyze Dump File	Low-level cause	When other steps fail

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By systematically going through these steps, you can isolate and fix the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error for good. The key is identifying whether it’s software, driver, or hardware-related—and responding accordingly.

Key Takeaways

• The IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL blue screen typically occurs when a driver or process incorrectly accesses protected memory areas.
• Running system file checkers (SFC and DISM) can fix corrupted files that commonly cause this error.
• Updating drivers, checking for hardware compatibility issues, and testing RAM are effective troubleshooting methods for this BSOD.

Understanding the ‘IRQL Not Less or Equal’ Error

The ‘IRQL Not Less or Equal’ error is a common Windows blue screen error that occurs when there’s improper memory access by a driver or system process. This critical error forces Windows to shut down to prevent damage to the system.

Causes of the Error

Several factors can trigger the ‘IRQL Not Less or Equal’ error in Windows systems. Outdated or corrupted drivers are often the primary culprits, especially graphics, network, or audio drivers that haven’t been updated recently.

Faulty hardware components, particularly RAM issues, can lead to this error when the system attempts to access memory improperly. Running a memory diagnostic test can help identify these problems.

System file corruption may also cause this error. Windows system files that become damaged or corrupted can disrupt normal memory access procedures, triggering the BSOD.

Incompatible software installations sometimes conflict with system processes, especially after major Windows updates. Recently installed programs might need updating or removal to resolve conflicts.

Interpreting the Stop Code

The ‘IRQL Not Less or Equal’ stop code provides valuable diagnostic information. IRQL stands for “Interrupt Request Level,” which is a ranking system Windows uses to determine which processes get priority when accessing system resources.

When this error appears, it indicates a system process or driver attempted to access a memory address without proper permissions. The stop code often includes a file name, which can help identify the problematic driver.

The error sometimes displays additional codes like 0x0000000A or similar hexadecimal values. These specific codes help technical support identify exactly which memory access violation occurred.

The timing of this error is important for diagnosis. If it happens during startup, it likely relates to boot drivers. If it occurs during specific activities like gaming or video streaming, it may point to graphics or media drivers.

Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

When dealing with the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error, a systematic approach to troubleshooting can help identify the root cause. This error typically stems from memory access issues or driver conflicts that require specific diagnostic tools and procedures.

Safe Mode and System Restore

Safe Mode provides a controlled environment for troubleshooting by loading only essential drivers and services. To enter Safe Mode, restart your computer and press F8 during startup (Windows 7) or hold Shift while clicking Restart (Windows 10/11).

Once in Safe Mode, check if the error persists. If the computer runs normally, a third-party driver or program is likely causing the conflict.

System Restore can roll back system files to a point before the error began occurring. Access it through Control Panel > Recovery or by typing “system restore” in the search bar.

Select a restore point from before the BSOD issues started. This process won’t affect personal files but will remove recently installed programs and drivers.

If System Restore resolves the issue, gradually reinstall programs and update drivers while monitoring for the return of the error.

Windows Memory Diagnostic and MemTest86

RAM issues frequently cause IRQL errors. Windows Memory Diagnostic is a built-in tool that checks memory for problems.

To run it:

1. Type “memory diagnostic” in the search bar
2. Select “Windows Memory Diagnostic”
3. Choose either “Restart now and check for problems” or “Check for problems the next time I start my computer”

For more thorough testing, MemTest86 is a comprehensive alternative. It runs outside Windows and tests RAM extensively.

Download MemTest86 from the official website and create a bootable USB drive. Run the test for at least 3-4 complete passes. Red error indicators signal faulty RAM modules.

If errors appear, try removing and reinstalling RAM sticks one by one to identify the problematic module. Faulty RAM should be replaced.

System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tool

Corrupted system files can trigger IRQL errors. The System File Checker (SFC) scans and repairs Windows system files.

To run SFC:

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter
3. Wait for the process to complete (about 15-20 minutes)

If SFC finds issues it cannot fix, the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can help. DISM repairs the Windows image itself.

Run these commands in sequence:

1. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
2. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
3. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

After DISM completes, run SFC again to ensure all system files are repaired.

Hardware Diagnostics and Overheating

Hardware issues beyond RAM can trigger IRQL errors. Check hard drives using the command: wmic diskdrive get status, model in Command Prompt.

Overheating can cause memory errors that trigger IRQL BSODs. Monitor CPU and GPU temperatures using tools like HWMonitor or Core Temp.

Normal CPU temperatures under load should stay below 80°C. If temperatures exceed this, check that all fans are working properly and clean any dust from vents and heatsinks.

Update device drivers, particularly for graphics cards and network adapters. Use Device Manager to identify devices with warning symbols and update their drivers.

For persistent issues, disconnect peripheral devices one by one to identify if a specific device is causing conflicts with system memory access.

Driver Management and Software Conflicts

Many IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL errors stem from driver-related issues and software conflicts. Proper driver management is essential for maintaining system stability and preventing these blue screen errors.

Updating and Rolling Back Drivers

Outdated drivers often trigger IRQL errors when they attempt to access memory incorrectly. To update drivers, open Device Manager by right-clicking the Start menu and selecting it from the list. Look for devices with yellow warning symbols, which indicate problems.

Right-click the problematic device and select “Update Driver.” Choose to search automatically for updated driver software or manually install drivers downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.

If a recent driver update caused the IRQL error, rolling back might help. In Device Manager, right-click the device, select “Properties,” then the “Driver” tab. Click the “Roll Back Driver” button if available.

Windows Updates sometimes include driver updates too. Check Settings > Windows Update to ensure your system has all current updates installed.

Identifying Incompatible Drivers

Incompatible drivers commonly cause IRQL errors by improperly accessing system memory. To identify problematic drivers, examine the blue screen details for file names mentioned in the error (typically ending in .sys).

Use Windows Reliability Monitor to review system crashes. Access it by typing “reliability” in the search bar and selecting “View reliability history.”

Third-party diagnostic tools like BlueScreenView can help pinpoint the exact driver causing issues by analyzing dump files created during crashes.

For persistent problems, try running Windows in Safe Mode by pressing F8 during startup. If the error disappears in Safe Mode, a third-party driver is likely the culprit.

Resolving Software Conflicts

Software conflicts often occur when multiple programs try to access the same hardware resources or when security software interferes with system operations.

Start by identifying recently installed software that coincides with the appearance of IRQL errors. Temporarily uninstall suspicious programs through Settings > Apps > Apps & features.

Antivirus and firewall programs frequently conflict with system drivers. Try temporarily disabling security software to see if it resolves the issue. If it does, check for updates or contact the software vendor.

Boot into Clean Boot state to eliminate software conflicts. Type “msconfig” in the search bar, open System Configuration, select “Selective startup,” and uncheck “Load startup items.” Also disable all non-Microsoft services under the Services tab.

Prevention and Maintenance Strategies

Preventing the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error requires regular system maintenance and good computing habits. Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the chances of encountering this memory-related blue screen error.

System Updates and Driver Management

Windows updates contain critical fixes for system stability issues that can trigger IRQL errors. Users should enable automatic updates through Windows Settings to ensure their system receives these important patches regularly.

Driver management is equally important since outdated or corrupted drivers often cause IRQL errors. To maintain healthy drivers:

• Use Windows Device Manager to check for devices with warning symbols
• Visit manufacturer websites for the latest driver versions rather than relying on third-party tools
• Create restore points before installing new drivers
• Uninstall unused hardware drivers that might conflict with system operations

For critical hardware like graphics cards and network adapters, checking quarterly for driver updates is recommended. When installing new hardware, always use the manufacturer’s installation process rather than letting Windows automatically install generic drivers.

Regular System Scans for Malware

Malware can corrupt system files and drivers, leading to IRQL errors. Setting up a consistent scanning schedule helps catch issues before they cause blue screens.

Windows Defender provides built-in protection, but users should ensure it’s properly configured:

• Enable real-time protection
• Run full system scans weekly
• Keep definition updates current

Browser extensions and downloaded files are common malware sources. Users should only download software from trusted sources and verify file authenticity when possible.

Memory-scanning utilities can also help identify malware that hides in RAM. These tools check for suspicious code execution patterns that might trigger IRQL violations during normal operation.

Avoiding Overclocking and System Monitoring

Overclocking pushes hardware beyond manufacturer specifications, often leading to memory instability and IRQL errors. Users should maintain default clock settings unless they thoroughly understand hardware limitations.

Temperature monitoring is crucial as overheating can cause memory errors. Several practices help maintain optimal operating conditions:

• Clean computer vents and fans every 3-6 months
• Ensure proper case ventilation
• Use monitoring tools like HWiNFO to track system temperatures

Physical memory issues often manifest as IRQL errors. Running Windows Memory Diagnostic tool quarterly helps identify RAM problems before they cause system crashes. For persistent issues, memtest86 provides more thorough testing capabilities.

RAM timing and voltage settings in BIOS should remain at default values unless users have specific reasons to change them.

Frequently Asked Questions

The ‘IRQL not less or equal’ error commonly stems from memory access issues, driver problems, and hardware conflicts. These causes often have specific solutions that can be implemented without advanced technical knowledge.

What steps can be taken to resolve the ‘IRQL not less or equal’ blue screen error on Windows 10?

To fix this error on Windows 10, users should first update all device drivers. Outdated or corrupted drivers are a primary cause of this blue screen issue.

Running Windows Memory Diagnostic tool can help identify memory problems. This built-in utility tests RAM for errors that might be triggering the BSOD.

System File Checker (SFC) scans can repair corrupted system files. Users should open Command Prompt as administrator and run “sfc /scannow” to check and fix system files.

Disabling memory caching in BIOS settings has also proven effective for some users. This requires restarting the computer and entering BIOS/UEFI setup.

How can one fix the ‘IRQL not less or equal’ error on Windows 11?

Windows 11 users should first try booting in Safe Mode to determine if third-party software is causing the issue. If the error doesn’t appear in Safe Mode, a recently installed application may be the culprit.

Updating Windows to the latest version often resolves driver compatibility issues. Windows 11 has enhanced driver management that can fix these errors automatically.

Rolling back recently installed drivers through Device Manager can help if the error began after a driver update. Right-clicking the problematic device and selecting “Roll Back Driver” might resolve the issue.

What are the common causes of the ‘IRQL not less or equal’ error in Windows 7?

In Windows 7, hardware conflicts frequently trigger this error. Older systems may have components that aren’t properly communicating with each other.

Outdated antivirus software can sometimes interfere with system processes. Users should update their security software or temporarily disable it to test if it’s causing the problem.

Memory-intensive applications may push Windows 7 systems beyond their capabilities. Users should monitor resource usage and close unnecessary applications.

Could improper driver installation lead to ‘IRQL not less or equal’ errors, and if so, how can it be rectified?

Yes, improper driver installation is a common cause of this error. Drivers installed from unofficial sources or without proper compatibility checks often create memory access violations.

To fix this issue, users should uninstall problematic drivers completely using Device Manager. After removal, they should restart their computer and let Windows install the default driver.

For specialized hardware, downloading drivers directly from the manufacturer’s website ensures compatibility. Always check that drivers match both the hardware model and Windows version.

Is it possible that hardware malfunctions, such as faulty RAM, are behind the ‘IRQL not less or equal’ issue?

Faulty RAM is frequently responsible for this error. When memory modules cannot properly store or retrieve data, they cause access violations at the system level.

Testing RAM with Memtest86+ can identify hardware failures. This tool performs comprehensive memory testing beyond what Windows built-in diagnostics can do.

Sometimes, simply reseating RAM modules resolves connection issues. Users should power down completely, discharge static electricity, and ensure memory is properly seated in its slots.

What diagnostic tools or methods can be used to troubleshoot the ‘IRQL not less or equal’ error on Windows operating systems?

BlueScreenView is a useful third-party tool that analyzes dump files created during crashes. It can identify the specific drivers involved in the error.

The Windows Debugger (WinDbg) provides detailed crash analysis for advanced users. This Microsoft tool can pinpoint exact memory addresses and code causing the failure.

Event Viewer logs often contain warning signs before a crash occurs. Checking System and Application logs might reveal hardware or driver issues before they cause a blue screen.