How to Fix the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Stop Code Error

Jul. 24, 2025 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows Driver Solutions

fix-irql-not-less-or-equal-stop-code-error

While using Windows 10 or 11, many users encounter blue screen errors, and one of the most common is IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL. This error often appears suddenly during startup or system operation.

This article will thoroughly analyze its causes and provide multiple effective solutions to help you quickly fix the issue and restore system stability.

1. What Is the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error?

IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL is a kernel-level error in the Windows operating system, usually related to:

Invalid memory access
Faulty or incompatible drivers
Corrupted system files
Hardware conflicts (e.g., faulty RAM)
Interference from third-party security software

This error is triggered when the system detects that a driver or process attempted to access unauthorized memory, in order to protect the system from damage.

2. When Does the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error Occur?

Blue screen appears during system startup or reboot
Crashes while playing games or running heavy software
Occurs after installing new drivers or Windows updates
Appears after connecting new hardware (e.g., RAM, graphics card)

3. Solutions to Fix IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

Method 1: Update Drivers

Drivers are crucial for system stability. If you're unfamiliar with downloading and installing drivers manually, it's recommend to use the Driver Talent tool. It can automatically detect missing or outdated drivers and fix them with one click.

Download Driver Talent

Click the download button to get the latest version of Driver Talent.
Install and open the software, then click "Scan".
After scanning, locate the drivers that need updating and click "Update".

driver-update

Once done, restart your PC to ensure the new drivers are applied properly.

Method 2: Boot into Safe Mode

Restart your PC and repeatedly press F8 or Shift + F8 during boot (some PCs may need to enter recovery mode).

Select "Safe Mode" to start the system.

boot-into-safe-mode

If the system runs fine in Safe Mode, the issue is likely caused by a faulty driver or third-party software.

Method 3: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

Press Win + R, type "mdsched.exe", and hit Enter.

Choose "Restart now and check for problems (recommended)".

run-windows-memory-diagnostic-tool

The system will restart and check for memory (RAM) issues.

If faulty RAM is found, try reseating or replacing the module.

Method 4: Run System File Checker

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
This will scan and repair any corrupted system files.

Method 5: Uninstall Recent Updates

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

Click "View update history" > "Uninstall updates".

uninstall-recent-updates

Uninstall the most recent updates, especially if the blue screen started after installing them.

Method 6: Disable Fast Startup

Fast Startup may cause driver conflicts in some cases:

Go to "Control Panel" > "Power Options" > "Choose what the power buttons do".
Click "Change settings that are currently unavailable".
Uncheck "Turn on fast start-up (recommended)".

disable-fast-startup

Save the changes and restart your computer.

Method 7: Disable Overclocking

If you've overclocked your CPU or memory, it might cause instability:

Restart your PC and enter the BIOS (commonly via Del, F2, or Esc).
Choose "Load Optimized Defaults" or "Restore Defaults".
Save and exit BIOS.

4. How to Prevent IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL in the Future

Avoid installing unverified software or drivers
Keep Windows and drivers up to date
Disable unnecessary startup programs
Regularly back up your system and create restore points