How To Fix ‘IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL’ STOP CODE Guide

Error
Error

It’s a BSoD (Blue Screen Of Death) problem that occurs as Windows is going to start up. The most likely cause is that you are using an older version of the software or that there is a problem with the hardware or software.

You should keep an eye on the RAM diagnostics and update them on a frequent basis. You can learn more about Windows 10 Errors Troubleshooting in our Windows 10 Errors Troubleshooting section.

Error
Error

To cope with your various PC difficulties, we highly recommend and suggest people to utilise the Restoro PC Repair tool. This software has a number of advantages, including the ability to protect your computer against viruses, Trojans, and software malfunctions, as well as improve computer speed.

Before you can use it, you must first install it, which is a simple process. To figure out different problems on your computer, first download Restoro PC repair tool from TrustPilot.com, then launch it and select Start Scan choices.

The next step would be to choose Repair All to resolve the issue. Every Windows user has probably encountered the BSoD problem at some point in their lives, which is caused by an incompatible system.

We can use that as a reference as we addressed how to deal with the problem of DPC WATCHDOG VIOLATION before. However, Windows users continue to receive the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL problem.

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STOP CODE IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

We’ll try to shed some light on some of the problem’s potential remedies. We’ve seen a problem like this before, with ntoskrnl.exe, which was caused by Realtek HiDefinition Audio drivers. The following are some of the scenarios in which this issue could occur:

Irql must be greater than or equal to ntoskrnl.exe: This is the operating system’s central component that alerts you to the problem.

This issue generally happens when gaming. IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL overclocks: Disabling the overclocking option is one possible solution.

Irql must be greater than or equal to Overheating of the CPU: Various apps or software on the PC might put strain on the CPU, causing it to heat up. As a result, there should be a good cooling system in place to keep it from overheating.

After RAM upgrading, Irql must not be less than or equal to: When you replace your RAM, the BSoD error can also occur. Make that your RAM is compatible with your computer and that it is installed correctly and without errors.

IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL after Windows update: Although unlikely, the problem can occur after you have completed your Windows update.

IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL and memory management: When one of these errors occurs, the other will follow. The RAM modules, which play a big role in this, are the fundamental reason for this. Let’s take a closer look at why this happens.

A system incompatibility, malfunctioning hardware, or a Windows update could all be factors. The device driver will also throw an error if it tries to reach a PC location to which it does not have access.

Understanding the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error

Before we dive into the details, let’s break down the stop code error itself:

  • “IRQL” stands for “Interrupt Request Level,” which is a fundamental part of how a computer’s hardware communicates with the operating system.
  • “NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL” indicates that a problem occurred when trying to execute a certain action or process involving interrupt requests.

In essence, the “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL” stop code error occurs when there is an issue related to how your computer’s hardware components interact with the Windows operating system, particularly when dealing with interrupt requests. This error can lead to system instability and crashes.

Common Symptoms of the Error

When you encounter the “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL” stop code error, you may experience the following symptoms:

  1. Blue Screen of Death (BSoD): The primary symptom is the appearance of the blue screen with the error message, followed by an automatic system restart.
  2. System Crashes: The error often leads to system crashes, which can result in data loss if you have unsaved work.
  3. Frequent Restarts: Your computer may enter a cycle of restarting, attempting to recover from the error.

Now that we understand the symptoms, let’s explore the potential causes of the “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL” stop code error.

Possible Causes of the Error

To effectively troubleshoot and resolve this error, it’s crucial to identify its underlying causes. Here are some common reasons behind the “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL” stop code error:

  1. Driver Issues: Outdated, incompatible, or corrupted device drivers are a common cause of this error. This includes drivers for hardware components such as graphics cards, network adapters, and storage controllers.
  2. Faulty Hardware: Hardware components that are failing or malfunctioning, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), can trigger the error.
  3. Software Conflicts: Conflicts between software applications or third-party drivers can lead to the error. This can include antivirus or security software.
  4. Overclocking: Overclocking your CPU or RAM beyond their stable limits can result in system instability and the “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL” error.
  5. Memory Issues: Problems with your computer’s memory, including faulty RAM modules or improperly seated RAM, can cause this error.
  6. Windows Updates: Sometimes, Windows updates can introduce new bugs or compatibility issues that trigger the error.

Now that we’ve identified the potential causes, let’s explore the solutions to fix the “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL” stop code error:

How Can I Fix The BSoD Problem (0x0000000A) IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL?

There are numerous solutions for resolving this issue. As previously stated, there are a variety of reasons, and as a result, there will be a variety of solutions.

You can experiment to see which one works best for you. Some of these are listed below and will be discussed shortly. Before continuing, ensure sure your system is up to date and that you have all of the latest drivers loaded.

First, perform a system update that affects all of your operating system’s different blocks and guarantees that you have the advanced version’s drivers loaded.

You may also check for system updates using third-party applications, and when you’ve completed all of these updates, you can upgrade your BIOS as well. A different way to this problem can be found by checking the “Event Viewer” for information about the error.

To do so, go to Event Viewer and pick charm, then utility. Look for any logs in the currently open window. Before beginning any solution, you must first erase all of the PC faults. Let’s start with the first option.

 1. Switch Your Computer 

Windows 10 gives users the option of booting into “Safe-Boot” mode, which is also known as “safe mode” in previous OS versions. You can use your computer with fewer features and drivers if you use the Minimal configuration.

This ensures that you are utilising a virus-free system with no additional tainted files. There are only two possible outcomes. Either your problem has been solved, suggesting that the third-party drivers were the reason, or it will not work, indicating that you need to dig deeper to find the root cause.

You can start Safe Mode by following the procedures listed below:

Step 1: Hold down the shift key while pressing the power button.

Step 2: Next, select the restart option.

Step 3: After that, go to Troubleshoot>Advanced options>Startup Settings>restart.

Step 4: Now you must wait for Windows 10 to reboot.

Step 5: Finally, select the safe mode option.

Step 6: Check to see if the issue is still present.

2. Examine Your Hardware and Memory

If the first option did not solve your problem, you can try this and debug the hardware part of your computer. As we previously stated, the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL issue occurs when you attempt to access a memory address for which you do not have permission.

In that scenario, the first thing you need do is check and test your computer’s RAM. Also, Windows has a good option for this.

You will be given instructions on how to test your RAM.

Step 1: Type Memory Diagnostic into the search charm, then select the Windows Memory Diagnostic programme from the results.

Step 2: A new window will open with two options for you to choose from. You must choose one; the first choice will restart your computer and begin a RAM scan.

Step 3: If it returns an error, you must respond to it and replace the RAM in your computer, which must be in good functioning order.

Step 4: If your motherboard includes a Memory Caching feature, you must first disable it. Also, operating in BIOS can be risky and put you at risk, so if you aren’t aware of them, don’t make any other changes.

Hardware inspection is a demanding and time-consuming operation. You must disconnect any connected devices from your computer before disabling their drivers. After that, restart and re-enable them, then connect all of the devices.

Only install one driver at a time, and try to connect a device to a computer each time. If no errors emerge, it is safe to assume that the driver is working well and that you can move on to the next one.

Carry out the identical steps for all of the drivers until a BSOD occurs. If you see this error, it means your driver isn’t up to date, and you need to enter safe mode and install the latest driver. If it still doesn’t work, it’s possible that your driver is incompatible with Windows.

3. Refresh or Restore 

The refreshing feature of Windows allows you to restore all values to their default settings. Your personal files will not be harmed in any way. You can use this strategy without feeling tense in your mind.

Before installing any programme, you must first make your own restore point. This will be beneficial to you in the future. To begin a system restoration on Windows 10, you must complete the following steps:

Step 1: Open the search engine and type in “system properties,” then close it.

Step 2: Go to System Protection and select System Restore from the drop-down menu.

Step 3: In the new box, press next and choose a restore point that suits your needs.

Step 4: After you’ve completed picking your restore point, click next, and then finish.

Windows also offers a number of advanced recovery tools for cleaning the operating system. You can also use this approach to reset Windows:

Step 1: Go to Settings, then Update and Security, then Recovery from the left panel.

Step 2: Select the Get Started option and begin resetting your computer.

Step 3: Then, to continue, follow the commands displayed on the screen.

4. Repair

This strategy aids in the correction of your error. The quickest method is to utilise the command prompt’s System File Checker command. Then go to Start and type cmd in the search box.

Use the run as administrator option to start the command prompt. Put the sfc or scannow command there and wait for it to finish scanning. All of your corrupted or missing files will be replaced in their identical spot.

 5. Inspect Your Hard Drive 

IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL issue can also be caused by your disc. So make sure to check your hard drive as well. On Windows, you can easily perform this by opening Command Prompt and typing the command chkdsk C:/f there.

 6. Perform a Complete System Scan

Viruses and malware can also be a significant contributor to IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL errors. To detect any virus on your computer, you must run a thorough system scan. Windows comes with built-in software, Windows Defender, that runs the scan.

Write defender in the start menu. Then, to run Windows Defender, double-click on it. On the top left panel, there is a shield-like symbol. After you’ve opened it, you’ll see a scan option. To begin scanning, select the complete scan option.

 7. Install Windows 

After you’ve exhausted all other options, the last choice is to execute a fresh Windows installation.

You will need a Windows installation disc for this, as well as the ability to erase everything from the C drive and install the most recent version of Windows. Using the Windows Refresh function is the quickest and easiest way to do so.

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Conclusion

The “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL” stop code error can be frustrating, but with a clear understanding of its causes and the appropriate troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve this issue and maintain a stable and reliable computer system.

By following these solutions and adopting good system maintenance practices, you can efficiently troubleshoot and resolve the “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL” error, ensuring a smoother and error-free computing experience.