Easy 6 Fixes for the Driver irql_less_or_not_equal Error on Windows 10

Amongst all the BSOD errors you might encounter while using your PC, the driver irql_less_or_not_equal Windows 10 error is the worst, as it crashes the system’s operating system each time it occurs it takes more time to fix.

This problem can be a pain to fix most times, but notwithstanding, this article will give you a solid guide on effectively overcoming this problem with easy-to-do steps.

Continue reading to understand the major causes of this problem and how to solve them.

What causes Driver_irql_not_less_or_equal?

Many factors could lead to this error. Below are some of the primary causes of this error code.

• Problem with RAM – Most times, the driver irql_less_or_not_equal windows 10 error code occurs as a result of a problem with the Random Access Memory (RAM) of your PC.
• Incompatible/outdated drivers – Computer systems running on outdated or incompatible drivers are prone to experience this error.
• Corrupt system files – The presence of corrupt system files on your system can cause a system crash leading to the irql_not_less_or_equal error code.
• Malfunctioning hardware/software – If any hardware or software component on your computer system is faulty or failing, you will get this error code.
• Damaged/incomplete installation of software – Incomplete or damaged software installation can also cause this error.
• Error while updating Windows 10 – This error could also be triggered due to an error in the Windows 10 update.
• Overclocking – Overclocking, which is meant to boost the performance of your PC, could also lead to computer crashes and error codes.

We have highlighted some of the primary causes of the driver irql_not_less_or_equal windows 10 error. Now, let us look at some methods to fix this problem.

How to fix driver irql_less_or_not_equal windows 10

1. Scan your PC for viruses or malware

1. Click Windows + I and select Update & Security.
   
2. Select Windows Security and choose Virus & threat protection.
   
3. Select Scan options.
   
4. Choose the Microsoft Defender Offline scan and click Scan now.
5. After running the scan, check to see if the problem has been resolved.

2. Disconnect network drivers

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
   
2. Next, in the Device manager window, expand the Network adapters option by clicking on it, right-click on a network device, and then select Uninstall.
   
3. In the Uninstall Device window, click Uninstall.
   
4. To complete this step, reboot your PC to see if the problem has been resolved.

3. Update the wireless adapter driver

1. Click Windows + X and select Device Manager.
   
2. Expand Network Adapters, right-click on your wireless adapter, and select Update driver.
   
3. Select Search automatically for drivers.
   
4. Lastly, verify to know if the problem has been fixed.

4. Run Windows memory diagnostic test

1. In the search box at the bottom left corner of your screen, type Windows Memory Diagnostic and hit Enter.
   
2. Select the Restart now and check for problems option.
   
3. Finally, check to see if the problem has been resolved.

5. Switch from wireless adapter to Ethernet

1. Click Windows + R to open the run dialogue box, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter.
   
2. Click the alt button, select the Advance option, and then choose Advanced Settings.
   
3. Click on Wi-Fi and use the downward pointing arrow to take it down; this will automatically bring Ethernet to the top of the list.
   
4. This will switch you from a wireless adapter to Ethernet.

It is important to note that for this process to work, you must have your Ethernet cable plugged into your modem and computer.

6. Reset Windows 10

1. Click Windows + I and select Update & Security.
   
2. Select Recovery and choose Get started under Reset this PC option.
   
3. Select the appropriate reset option.
   

Note that the first option is the best choice if you have important files and documents on your PC. But if you don’t have any important files on your system, you can go with the second option.

Also, remember that this step should be your last resort after trying every other method to fix this problem.

By following the steps in this article, you will eliminate the driver irql_less_or_not_equal windows 10 error and get your PC in good working condition.

We would like to know which solutions worked for you in the comments section below.