IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error on Windows? Quick Fix Guide

Jun. 26, 2025 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows 10

irql-not-less-or-equal-error-fixes

Windows users may occasionally encounter a blue screen error while using their computers, and one of the most common types is "IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL".

This error is typically caused by driver conflicts, faulty memory, or corrupted system files, leading to system crashes and automatic restarts.

This article will explain the common causes of this error and provide various solutions to help you restore system stability.

What Is the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error?

"IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL" is a type of Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error in the Windows operating system. The error code usually appears as 0x0000000A. It indicates that the system attempted to access an unauthorized or invalid memory address, often due to driver or hardware conflicts. When this occurs, Windows forces a restart to prevent further damage.

Common Causes of IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

Driver conflicts or corruption: Incompatible or outdated drivers can cause memory access violations.
Hardware issues: Faulty RAM, motherboard problems, or a failing hard drive can trigger this error.
Corrupted system files: Essential Windows files may be missing or damaged.
Software conflicts: Security software or third-party tools interfering with the system kernel.
Unstable overclocking: Improper CPU or RAM overclock settings leading to instability.

How to Fix the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error

1. Update Device Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers are one of the main causes of this error. If you're unfamiliar with manually installing drivers, it's recommend to use Driver Talent, which can automatically detect, download, and install the most compatible drivers for your device.

Download Driver Talent

Click the download button to get the latest version of Driver Talent.
Install and launch the software, then click "Scan" under the "Drivers" tab.
After scanning, locate outdated or missing drivers in the results and click "Update".

driver-update

Once updated, restart your computer to apply changes.

2. Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

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

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

run-the-windows-memory-diagnostic-tool

The system will reboot and automatically run a memory test.

If errors are detected, try reseating or replacing the RAM.

3. Check System File Integrity

Use the System File Checker (SFC) to scan and repair corrupted Windows system files:

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Enter the command: sfc /scannow and press Enter.

check-system-file-integrity

Wait for the process to complete, then restart your computer.

4. Uninstall Recently Installed Programs or Updates

If the error started after installing new software or a Windows update:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history.
Find the recently installed update and select "Uninstall updates".

click-uninstall-update

Restart the computer to check if the issue is resolved.

5. Reset Windows

If none of the above methods work, you can either use a system restore point or reset your PC:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
Choose "Go back to the previous version" or "Reset this PC".
Follow the prompts and back up important files if needed.

Tips to Prevent IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL in the Future

Keep Windows and drivers up to date to maintain compatibility.
Avoid installing untrusted software to reduce the risk of conflicts.
Regularly check your hardware, especially RAM and hard drives.
Avoid aggressive overclocking; ensure hardware runs within safe limits.
Use legitimate antivirus software to protect against malicious programs.