How to Fix IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Errors in Windows 10/11?

What is the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error?

IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL is one of the most frequent BSOD errors in Windows. It happens when a system process or driver attempts to access an interrupt request level that is restricted and for which it has no permission. The related error, stop code irql_not_less_or_equal can appear on either Windows 10 or Windows 11 OS.

Common Causes of the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error

The irql_not_less_or_equal error can be triggered by various underlying causes, including:

Corrupt or incompatible drivers
Bad memory (RAM), if memory is damaged or failing.
Malicious software may damage system files leading to this error.
Pushing your system beyond normal capabilities results in system instability, hence giving rise to this error.

Read about similar Windows Errors:
Error Code 0x800f081f

Fix #1: Remove Malware Entities

If the irql_not_less_or_equal error showed up after installing new software, it’s possible that malware or a virus came along with the installation. Removing the malware could fix the problem.

You can use the built-in Windows Defender to scan for and remove malware. Alternatively, reliable third-party antivirus software can be helpful as well.

In some cases, simply uninstalling the problematic application may resolve the error. Here’s how to do it:

Open Settings by clicking the Windows menu and selecting the gear icon.
Go to Apps, then click on Apps and Features.
On the right-hand side, sort the apps by Install Date to find the most recent one.
Select the recently installed app and click Uninstall.

Fix #2: Keep Your Computer Cool

Overheating can lead to issues like the irql_not_less_or_equal error. If your CPU gets too hot, it can cause system instability. To avoid this, you need to keep your computer at a safe temperature. Here are some simple cooling tips:

Upgrade your CPU fan: If the current fan isn’t effective, replacing it with a better one can help.
Install an extra fan: Sometimes, one fan isn’t enough. Adding another fan can improve cooling.
Try a water-cooling kit: If you’ve made a lot of upgrades and your fan isn’t cutting it, water cooling can be a more effective way to keep your CPU cool.

You can use Camomile app tool for real-time automatic optimization for CPU and system performance. Camomile reduces hardware strain, helping cool your system and extend its lifespan.

Fix #3: Use the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

Issues with your RAM can also trigger the irql_not_less_or_equal error. To check for RAM problems, use the Windows Memory Diagnostics tool. Here’s how:

Search for “memory diagnostic” in the search box.
Select “Windows Memory Diagnostic” to open the tool.
Click “Restart now and check for problems (Recommended).”

In a few minutes, Windows will scan for RAM-related problems and list those it finds.

Fix #4: Update Your Device Drivers

Yet another common cause of the irql_not_less_or_equal error, the error can also arise if one or more drivers installed in your system is incompatible or out-of-date. First, you’ve got to renew your driver. Here’s how:

Open File Explorer and right-click This PC > Manage > System Tools > Device Manager.
Find your device under “Disk Drives” and right-click it. Then select “Update Driver.”
Windows will search for and install the compatible driver.

When the update is complete, remember to restart your computer to install.

Alternatively, if you want to do things the easy way, then use Outbyte Driver Updater to automatically update drivers.

Fix #5: Run the Hardware Troubleshooter

Hardware issues can also trigger the irql_not_less_or_equal error. Using the hardware troubleshooter can help resolve this. Here’s how:

Open: Start menu > Settings > Update and Security > Troubleshoot.
On the right side, find and click “Hardware and Devices.” Hit “Run the Troubleshooter” to scan for any hardware problems. Let Windows scan and identify issues.
Once finished, follow the prompts to fix any detected problems.

Fix #6: Verify Your Drivers

The Driver Verifier will be able to identify the problematic drivers which may be causing the irql_not_less_or_equal problem. It is a bit technical, so unless you are comfortable using it, you should seek professional advice. Here is how you can run Driver Verifier:

Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Once the command line opens, type in verifier and press Enter.
Click “Create Standard Settings” and then click Next.
Put checkmarks beside the drivers that you want to verify and click Next. Select one of the drivers to be checked and click Finish.
When it asks you to, restart your PC. The rest should be handled by Windows.

Fix #7: Reset Your PC

Now, if all other would not work, then restoring can be your last resort. You are going back to the default settings of your computer, but you can choose not to delete your personal files.

Fix #8: Perform a Clean Boot

Performing a clean boot helps determine whether some third-party services are causing a conflict:

Search for msconfig in the search bar and open it.
Go to the Services tab and select Hide all Microsoft services. Then click Disable all.
Restart your computer to see if this clears the error.

If the error does not occur on the clean boot mode, that means some third-party service is stopping Windows from opening properly.

Fix #9: Get Expert Help

When everything fails and the error continues, it is high time to go for help. Explore online forums or directly call Microsoft’s support team.

You can also pay a visit to any authorized Windows service center near your location. The problem could be grave, as a technician at the center may be able to find the diagnosis of the problem. The blue screen error may get resolved with expert assistance.