Blog

How to Fix IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

The IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error is a common Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) issue on Windows 11. It usually appears when there is a problem related to device drivers, memory, or system files. This error can cause your computer to crash suddenly, interrupting your work.

Fixing this error involves a series of steps, starting from simple checks to more advanced troubleshooting. Each step helps identify and resolve the root cause without overwhelming you.

By following this guide carefully, even beginners can understand and fix the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error. Let’s get started with some quick notes before diving into the solutions.

Remember, patience is key. Make sure to follow each step thoroughly for the best results.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

Before trying any fixes, it’s important to prepare your system and check a few things. These quick checks can save you time and prevent further issues.

  • Backup your important data: If your PC crashes often, backing up files ensures you won’t lose anything important.
  • Check for recent changes: Think about any new software, hardware, or driver updates you installed before the error started.
  • Make sure your Windows is up to date: Sometimes, Microsoft releases fixes that solve errors like this.
  • Disconnect external devices: Unplug USB drives, printers, or other peripherals to see if they cause the problem.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

This might sound very basic, but often a simple restart can clear temporary glitches causing the error. Restarting resets the system memory and can stop conflicts between running processes.

After restarting, use your PC normally and check if the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error reappears. If it does, proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Update Device Drivers

Drivers are software that help your hardware communicate with Windows. Outdated or faulty drivers often cause the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error.

Here is how to update your drivers:

  1. Press Windows + X on your keyboard and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the categories and look for devices with a yellow exclamation mark — these indicate driver problems.
  3. Right-click the device and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers. Windows will try to find the latest drivers online.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to install updates if found.
  6. Restart your computer after updating.

If Windows cannot find new drivers, you can visit the manufacturer’s website directly to download and install the latest versions manually.

Step 3: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

Faulty RAM (memory) can also cause this error. Windows has a built-in tool to check your RAM for problems.

To use it:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type mdsched.exe and press Enter.
  3. Select Restart now and check for problems.
  4. Your PC will restart and run the memory test automatically.
  5. When the test finishes, Windows will boot normally and show the results.

If errors are detected, you might need to replace your RAM or consult a technician for further help.

Step 4: Check for System File Corruption

Corrupted system files can cause instability and errors. Windows provides tools to scan and repair these files.

Follow these steps:

  1. Click the Start button, type Command Prompt, right-click it, and choose Run as administrator.
  2. In the black window, type the following command and press Enter:
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait patiently as the system scans and repairs files. This may take some time.
  4. If the scan finds issues, it will repair them automatically.
  5. Restart your PC once the process completes.

Step 5: Uninstall Problematic Software or Drivers

If you noticed the error started after installing new software or hardware drivers, try uninstalling them:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Find the recently installed program, click the three-dot menu next to it, and select Uninstall.
  4. For drivers, open Device Manager, right-click the device, and select Uninstall device.
  5. Restart your computer to see if the error disappears.

Step 6: Disable Fast Startup

Fast Startup helps your PC boot faster but can sometimes cause driver conflicts leading to this error.

Disable it by following these steps:

  1. Open Control Panel and go to Power Options.
  2. Click Choose what the power buttons do on the left panel.
  3. Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
  4. Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended).
  5. Click Save changes and restart your PC.

Step 7: Use System Restore to Go Back

If the error started recently, you can use System Restore to revert your computer to a previous state where everything worked fine.

Here’s how:

  1. Press Windows + S, type Create a restore point, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Properties window, click System Restore.
  3. Follow the wizard to choose a restore point dated before the error began.
  4. Confirm and let Windows restore your system.
  5. Your PC will restart; check if the error still happens.

Advanced Option: Analyze Minidump Files

When Windows crashes, it creates small files called minidumps that contain details about the error. Advanced users can analyze these files to find the exact cause.

You can use tools like WinDbg or BlueScreenView to open and read minidumps.

This process can be technical, so if you’re unsure, consider seeking help from a professional or the Microsoft support forums.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL mean?

This error means a driver or a kernel-mode process tried to access a memory address it shouldn’t have, causing a system crash.

Is this error related to hardware or software?

It can be caused by either faulty hardware (like bad RAM) or software issues such as problematic drivers.

Can outdated Windows cause this error?

Yes, outdated Windows can lack important updates and fixes, increasing the chance of errors.

Will reinstalling Windows fix this error?

Reinstalling Windows can fix this if the problem is software-related, but it should be a last resort after other fixes.

How do I know if my RAM is faulty?

Running Windows Memory Diagnostic or third-party tools like MemTest86 can identify RAM problems.

Can antivirus software cause this error?

Sometimes, antivirus programs may conflict with drivers or system processes, causing errors.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the above steps and still face the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error, consider the following:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support page for personalized help.
  • Check hardware components: If possible, test your RAM and hard drives on another PC or use hardware diagnostic tools.
  • Consult a professional technician: Sometimes hardware repairs or replacements are necessary.
  • Consider reinstalling Windows: As a last resort, a clean Windows installation can resolve persistent system problems.

Conclusion

The IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error on Windows 11 can be frustrating but is usually fixable by following straightforward steps. Start with simple methods like restarting and updating drivers, then move on to memory checks and system scans. Understanding why each step matters helps you troubleshoot more effectively.

Always back up your data before making big changes, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. With patience and careful troubleshooting, you can get your Windows 11 PC running smoothly again.

Leave a Reply