How to Fix IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Windows 11

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Windows 11, the latest iteration of Microsoft's popular operating system, brings a host of exciting features and improvements. However, like any software, it is not immune to errors. One such error that Windows 11 users may encounter is the "IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL" error. This blue screen error can be frustrating and disruptive to your work or entertainment. In this blog post, we will explore four effective methods to help you fix the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error in Windows 11, ensuring a smoother and more reliable computing experience.

Update Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible device drivers are a common cause of the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error. Follow these steps to update your device drivers:

1. Press the Win + X keys and select "Device Manager" from the menu.
2. In the Device Manager window, expand the categories and locate the devices with a yellow exclamation mark.
3. Right-click on the device and select "Update driver."
4. Choose the option to search for updated drivers automatically.
5. If Windows finds any updates, follow the on-screen instructions to install them.
6. Repeat this process for all devices with an exclamation mark.

Run Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

Faulty or malfunctioning RAM can also trigger the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error. To check for memory-related issues, use the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool:

• Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
• Type "mdsched.exe" and hit Enter to launch the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool.
• Select the option to restart now and check for problems.
• Allow the tool to run a comprehensive memory test, which may take some time.
• After the test completes, your PC will automatically restart.
• Check if the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error persists after the restart.

Disable Overclocking

If you have overclocked your CPU or RAM, it may lead to system instability and trigger the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error. To disable overclocking:

1. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS or UEFI setup by pressing the designated key (e.g., Del, F2, F10) during startup. Consult your motherboard's manual for the exact key.
2. Navigate to the overclocking or performance settings.
3. Locate the CPU and RAM overclocking options and set them to their default or "Auto" values.
4. Save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI setup.
5. Allow your computer to boot normally and check if the error persists.

Perform a System Restore

If the above methods didn't resolve the issue, performing a system restore can help revert your Windows 11 system to a previous stable state:

1. Press the Win + X keys and select "Settings" from the menu.
2. In the Settings window, click on "System" and select the "Recovery" tab.
3. Under the "Advanced startup" section, click on "Restart now."
4. In the Choose an option screen, select "Troubleshoot" followed by "Advanced options."
5. Click on "System Restore" and follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system to a previous restore point.
6. After the restoration process completes, check if the error is resolved.

Conclusion:

The IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error can disrupt your computing experience on Windows 11. By following the four methods mentioned above—updating device drivers, running Windows Memory Diagnostic, disabling overclocking, and performing a system restore—you can effectively troubleshoot and fix this error. Remember to keep your Windows 11 system up to date and maintain a healthy computing environment to minimize the occurrence of such errors. If the issue persists, consider seeking further assistance from Microsoft Support or other technical resources. Happy computing!