The IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error in Windows 10 is a common Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) that usually appears due to faulty drivers, memory issues, or corrupted system files. If you’re seeing messages like driver_irql_not_less_or_equal Windows 10, don’t panic — this guide explains exact fixes step by step, even for Windows 8, 8.1, and Windows 7.
What Is IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error?
IRQL (Interrupt Request Level) errors occur when a driver or system process tries to access restricted memory at an incorrect priority level. This instantly crashes Windows to prevent further damage.
Common Error Variations:
- driver_irql_not_less_or_equal
- stop code irql_not_less_or_equal
- blue screen Windows 10 irql_not_less_or_equal
Main Causes of IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL in Windows 10
- Outdated or incompatible drivers
- Faulty RAM
- Corrupted system files
- Antivirus or VPN conflicts
- Overclocked CPU or RAM
- Windows update bugs
Quick Fixes (Featured Snippet Friendly)
- Boot into Safe Mode
- Update or rollback drivers
- Run Windows Memory Diagnostic
- Disable third-party antivirus
- Repair system files (SFC & DISM)
How to Fix IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Windows 10 (Step-by-Step)
1. Boot Windows 10 into Safe Mode
This prevents faulty drivers from loading.
Steps:
- Restart PC
- Press Shift + Restart
- Troubleshoot → Advanced → Startup Settings
- Select Safe Mode
✔ Best for diagnosing driver-related BSODs
2. Update or Roll Back Drivers (Most Effective Fix)
This is the top solution for
how to fix driver_irql_not_less_or_equal Windows 10
Steps:
- Press Win + X → Device Manager
- Expand Network, Display, or Storage drivers
- Right-click → Update driver
- If error started after update → Roll Back Driver
3. Fix Stop Code DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Windows 10
Run system repair commands:
sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
✔ Fixes corrupted system files causing BSOD
4. Check RAM for Errors
Faulty memory can trigger IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL.
Steps:
- Press Win + R → mdsched.exe
- Restart and scan memory
- Replace RAM if errors are found
5. Disable Antivirus or VPN Temporarily
Some security tools conflict with Windows kernel drivers.
- Uninstall third-party antivirus
- Restart PC
- Use Windows Defender temporarily
6. Fix Blue Screen Windows 10 IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL via BIOS
- Reset BIOS to default
- Disable overclocking
- Update BIOS (if required)
⚠ Only if you’re experienced
How to Fix IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Windows 8 / 8.1 / 7
Most fixes are the same:
- Update legacy drivers
- Run memory diagnostics
- Disable old antivirus software
- Install latest Windows updates
✔ Works for:
- how to fix irql_not_less_or_equal windows 8
- how to fix irql_not_less_or_equal windows 8.1
- how to fix irql_not_less_or_equal windows 7
Related BSOD Fixes (Internal Links)
- PFN List Corrupt error fix:
👉 https://multicaretechnical.com/how-to-fix-pfn-list-corrupt-windows-10-complete-guide - DPC Watchdog Violation fix:
👉 https://multicaretechnical.com/how-to-fix-dpc-watchdog-violation-windows-10-step-by-step-guide - Page Fault in Nonpaged Area fix:
👉 https://multicaretechnical.com/how-to-fix-page-fault-in-nonpaged-area-in-windows-11-10-7-complete-step-by-step-guide-2025
How to Prevent IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error
- Keep drivers updated
- Avoid unknown driver installers
- Don’t overclock hardware
- Run periodic disk & memory checks
- Keep Windows updated
FAQs – IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Windows Error
What causes IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL in Windows 10?
Mostly outdated drivers, faulty RAM, or corrupted system files.
Can RAM cause IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL?
Yes, defective RAM is a common cause.
Is IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL a hardware or software issue?
It can be both, but driver issues are the most common.
Does reinstalling Windows fix this error?
Yes, but only if software-related. Hardware issues will remain.