← Back to DatabaseHow to Fix DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
Topic: Windows 10 Blue Screen Errors | Status: Updated
What is this error?
The "DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL" error is a common Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) message indicating that a driver is attempting to access a memory address that it does not have permission to access. This typically occurs due to issues with outdated, corrupted, or incompatible drivers.
How to Fix It
- Restart Your Computer: Begin by rebooting your system to see if the error resolves itself, as it may be a one-time occurrence.
- Boot into Safe Mode: If the error persists, restart your computer and press F8 or Shift + F8 during boot to access the Advanced Boot Options menu. Select "Safe Mode" to start Windows with minimal drivers.
- Update Drivers: Once in Safe Mode, open Device Manager by right-clicking the Start button and selecting it. Expand the categories, right-click on your devices, and choose "Update driver." Install any updates, particularly for network adapters and display drivers.
- Uninstall Problematic Drivers: If the issue started after installing new hardware or drivers, return to Device Manager, right-click on the relevant driver, and select "Uninstall device." Restart your computer, and Windows will attempt to reinstall a compatible driver.
- Check for Windows Updates: Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Click "Check for updates" to ensure that your operating system is up to date, as updates may include critical patches for drivers.
- Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type
sfc /scannow. This command scans for corrupted system files and attempts to repair them.
- Revert Recent Changes: If the error began after a recent change (software or hardware), consider using System Restore to revert to a previous state where your system functioned correctly.
Disclaimer: This is an educational guide. We are not responsible for data loss. Always backup your system.
