Encountering the ‘DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL’ error on your Windows 10 PC can be a source of frustration, but with the right guidance, you can tackle this issue effectively. This article will provide you with step-by-step instructions to diagnose and resolve the problem, ensuring a seamless computing experience.
Understanding the ‘DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL’ Error
The ‘DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL’ error often manifests as a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) and can be traced back to driver issues or memory conflicts within your system. It signals that a driver has tried to access a memory address without proper permissions. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial for the stability of your PC.
Critical Steps to Resolve the Error
Take action to rectify the ‘DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL’ error by following these solutions:
Uninstall Network Drivers in Safe Mode
If your PC is unable to start normally due to frequent BSODs, booting into Safe Mode may be necessary. Here is how you can uninstall problematic network drivers:
- Press the Windows logo key + R, type ‘devmgmt.msc’, and click OK to open Device Manager.
- Locate ‘Network Adapters’ and uninstall the device by right-clicking it and selecting ‘Uninstall Device’.
- Follow any prompts to confirm the uninstallation.
- Repeat the process for any wireless network adapters installed.
- Reboot your PC to allow Windows to reinstall the necessary drivers.
If starting Windows normally is not an option:
- Boot into Safe Mode following the appropriate steps for your PC.
- Open Device Manager and disable the network devices under ‘Network Adapters’.
- Reboot your PC for Windows to automatically reinstall drivers.
- Check to see if the BSOD error is resolved.
Updating Drivers Automatically
Utilizing driver update software can streamline the process of finding and installing the correct drivers for your system. A user-friendly option like Driver Easy can automatically determine what drivers your PC needs:
- Download and install a trusted driver updating tool.
- Run the software and commence a system scan to detect driver issues.
- Update necessary drivers individually or en masse with the appropriate version of the software.
Final Thoughts on Tackling the ‘DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL’ Error
By following the detailed instructions provided, you should be able to overcome the ‘DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL’ error on your Windows 10 PC. Proactive management of device drivers is an excellent preventative strategy against such disruptive errors.
FAQ
Q: What causes the ‘DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL’ error?
A: This error typically results from a driver trying to access an unauthorized memory address, often linked to network driver issues or incompatible hardware.
Q: Is it safe to use driver updating software?
A: Yes, using reputable software to update drivers can be a safe way to maintain your system, as long as you download it from a trusted source.
Remember to keep your operating system and drivers up to date to prevent similar issues. If the error persists, seeking assistance from a professional or consulting technical support may be necessary.
