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DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error in Windows

by | Feb 10, 2025

Learn how to fix the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error in Windows. Our Windows Support team is here to help you with your questions and concerns.

How to Fix DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error in Windows

If you have been using Windows for a long time, you are probably familiar with the Blue screen of death error. The DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL is a critical Windows Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) error with the stop code 0x000000D1.

How to Fix DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error in Windows

According to our Experts, this error indicates severe system driver or hardware issues, often linked to improper memory access attempts by drivers, leading to system crashes.

Today, we will look at the causes of this error and how to resolve it easily.

What Triggers the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error?

This error lets us know there has been a critical communication breakdown between the hardware and the processor. When multiple devices simultaneously send interrupt requests to the CPU, the Interrupt Request Level (IRQL) rises, causing the kernel to block I/O operations. Drivers may attempt to access unauthorized memory locations, resulting in system instability.

Here are some of the impacts of the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error:

  • Sudden, unexpected system crashes
  • Complete system freezes
  • Frequent Blue Screen of Death interruptions
  • Potential for permanent system instability
  • High risk of unsaved data loss
  • Possible corruption of open files
  • Interruption of critical work processes
  • Unexpected shutdowns during operations
  • Breakdown in hardware-software communication
  • Memory allocation conflicts
  • Disruption of kernel-mode driver operations
  • Interference with IRQL levels

Common Causes and How to Fix Them

1. Corrupted System Files

Damaged or corrupted Windows system files

Click here for the Solution.
  1. First, run a DISM Command by opening Command Prompt as administrator:

    DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image Restorehealth

  2. Then, execute an SFC Scan:

    sfc /scannow

    This scans for and repairs corrupted system files.

2. Hardware Issues

Faulty RAM, damaged hardware, or improper connections

Click here for the Solution.
  1. Physically inspect RAM sticks
  2. Use “Windows Memory Diagnostic” tool
  3. Run extended memory tests

Alternatively, use third-party memory testing software and consult professional diagnostics if needed.

3. Driver Problems

Outdated, misconfigured, or incompatible drivers

Click here for the Solution.
  1. First, we have to update Drivers. So, right-click the device > Update Driver > Search automatically for updates.
  2. For network adapter troubleshooting, uninstall and reinstall drivers.
  3. We can download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website

4. Software Conflicts

Antivirus interference, conflicting applications, or recent installations

Click here for the Solution.
  1. Temporarily disable real-time protection and observe system stability.
  2. Uninstall recently added software, use System Restore if necessary.

5. Malware and Virus Infections

Malicious software disrupting system processes

Click here for the Solution.
  1. Perform a full system scan via Windows Defender or reputable antimalware tools.
  2. Perform offline scans and consider professional cybersecurity help if needed

Prevention Strategies

  • Keep Windows and drivers updated
  • Install official updates promptly
  • Regularly check hardware connections
  • Run periodic diagnostics
  • Replace aging components
  • Install software from trusted sources
  • Verify compatibility with your Windows version
  • Maintain up-to-date antivirus protection
  • Schedule regular system backups
  • Utilize Windows recovery options
  • Keep a recovery drive handy

[Need assistance with a different issue? Our team is available 24/7.]

Conclusion

By understanding the causes and implementing the right fixes, we can easily fix the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error and prevent future occurrences.

In brief, our Support Experts demonstrated how to fix the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error in Windows.

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