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IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

Last checked 2026-10-17 · 3 fixes · reviewed answer

TL;DRThis is a Windows blue screen stop error that occurs when the system tries to access memory at an incorrect interrupt request level, usually pointing to a driver or hardware problem that crashes the PC.

Likely causes

  1. Faulty or incompatible device drivermost likely
  2. Issues with system memory (RAM)possible
  3. Hardware conflicts or recent system changesless likely

How to fix it

Safest first: SafeChanges settingsDangerous
  1. Restart the computerSafe

    Power off completely and restart to test if the error happens again after a fresh boot.

  2. Check Event Viewer for detailsSafe

    Open Event Viewer and look under Windows Logs > System for recent errors around the time of the crash to identify possible causes.

    eventvwr
  3. Run built-in memory diagnosticSafe

    Test RAM for errors using the Windows memory tool, which requires a restart.

    mdsched.exe

    ⚠ Save all work before running as it will restart the PC.

If that didn't fix it

The blue screen may keep returning, risking data loss or preventing normal use of the computer.

When to see a technician

If the error continues after trying the basic steps, take the computer to a technician for hardware testing.

Did this fix it? Report a problem

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