How to Fix IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Blue Screen Error in Windows 10/11

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The IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error is a common issue in Windows 10, often signified by the stop code 0x0000000A. This error usually occurs when a driver or system process attempts to access an invalid memory address, leading to a system crash. Resolving this error involves diagnosing the underlying cause, which can range from faulty drivers and hardware issues to corrupted system files. This guide outlines effective solutions to fix the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL BSOD error and restore system stability.

IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

1. Check for Faulty Drivers

Incompatible or outdated drivers are common culprits behind the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error.

  • Update Drivers:

    • Press Windows + X and select “Device Manager.”
    • Expand the categories and right-click on devices, particularly those with a yellow exclamation mark. Select “Update driver” and choose “Search automatically for updated driver software.”

  • Rollback Drivers:

    • In Device Manager, right-click on the problematic device, select “Properties,” go to the “Driver” tab, and click “Roll Back Driver” if available. This option reverts to a previous driver version that might be more stable.

  • Uninstall and Reinstall Drivers:

    • In Device Manager, right-click on the problematic device and select “Uninstall device.” Restart your computer to let Windows reinstall the driver automatically.

2. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can trigger the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error. Running SFC and DISM can repair these files.

  • Run SFC:

    • Open Command Prompt as Administrator (press Windows + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)” or “Windows Terminal (Admin)”). Enter:
      sfc /scannow
    • Wait for the scan to complete and follow any prompts to repair corrupted files.

  • Run DISM:

    • In the same Command Prompt window, enter:
      DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    • Allow DISM to complete its process. Rerun SFC if needed.

3. Check for Hardware Issues

Faulty hardware components, such as RAM or hard drives, can cause BSOD errors.

  • Test RAM:

    • Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter. Choose “Restart now and check for problems” to run Windows Memory Diagnostic and check for RAM issues.

  • Check Hard Drive:

    • Open Command Prompt as Administrator and enter:
      chkdsk /f /r
    • Follow any prompts to schedule a disk check on restart. Restart your computer to complete the scan.

4. Update Windows

Installing the latest Windows updates can fix bugs and issues related to system stability.

  • Check for Updates:
    • Go to Settings > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update” and click “Check for updates.” Install any available updates and restart your computer if prompted.

5. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot can help identify if background services or startup programs are causing the error.

  • Open System Configuration:

    • Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.

  • Configure Clean Boot:

    • In the “Services” tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services” and click “Disable all.” In the “Startup” tab, click “Open Task Manager” and disable all startup items.

  • Restart Your Computer:

    • Restart to see if the error persists. If the error is resolved, re-enable services and startup items one by one to identify the problematic program or service.

6. Check for Malware

Malware infections can cause various system errors, including BSODs.

  • Run Windows Defender Scan:

    • Go to Settings > “Update & Security” > “Windows Security” > “Virus & Threat Protection.” Click “Quick Scan” or “Full Scan” for a more thorough check.

  • Use Third-Party Antivirus:

    • If you have third-party antivirus software, perform a full system scan to detect and remove any malware.

7. Restore System to a Previous State

If the error started recently, restoring your system to a previous state can resolve the issue.

  • Open System Restore:

    • Press Windows + S, type “Create a restore point,” and select the option. In the System Properties window, click “System Restore.”

  • Choose a Restore Point:

    • Follow the prompts to select a restore point from before the error began and complete the restoration process.

8. Check for Overheating

Overheating can cause hardware components to malfunction and trigger BSOD errors.

  • Monitor System Temperature:

    • Use tools like HWMonitor or Core Temp to check your system’s temperature.

  • Clean Hardware:

    • Ensure your computer’s fans and vents are clean and functioning properly to prevent overheating.

9. Perform a System Reset

As a last resort, performing a system reset can fix persistent issues by reinstalling Windows.

  • Open Reset Options:

    • Go to Settings > “Update & Security” > “Recovery” and click “Get started” under “Reset this PC.”

  • Choose Reset Option:

    • Select “Keep my files” to reinstall Windows while keeping your personal files or “Remove everything” for a clean installation.

Conclusion

The IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL BSOD error can be caused by various factors, including driver issues, hardware problems, and corrupted system files. By following these solutions, such as updating drivers, running system repairs, and checking for hardware issues, you can address the root cause of the problem and restore system stability. Regular maintenance, such as keeping your system and drivers up-to-date, will help prevent similar issues in the future. If the problem persists despite these efforts, consider seeking professional assistance or performing a system reset.