How to Fix 0x00000008 IRQL_NOT_DISPATCH_LEVEL BSOD Error on Windows 10 & 11

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Understanding the 0x00000008 IRQL_NOT_DISPATCH_LEVEL BSOD Error

The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with stop code 0x00000008, also known as IRQL_NOT_DISPATCH_LEVEL, is a common issue that affects Windows 10 and 11 users. This error occurs when the system attempts to execute a kernel-mode routine at an invalid interrupt request level (IRQL). It typically appears during critical operations like memory management, hardware driver execution, or system service handling, causing your computer to crash unexpectedly.

When this BSOD occurs, your screen will briefly display an error message with technical details before restarting. The stop code 0x00000008 is often accompanied by a reference to the specific driver or module that caused the issue, such as ntoskrnl.exe, win32k.sys, or other system files.

Common Causes of the 0x00000008 BSOD Error

The IRQL_NOT_DISPATCH_LEVEL error can be triggered by several underlying issues, most of which are related to hardware or driver conflicts. Here are the most frequent causes:

  • Corrupted system files due to improper shutdowns, malware, or software updates.
  • Faulty or outdated hardware drivers, particularly those for graphics cards, network adapters, or storage devices.
  • Incompatible or poorly written third-party applications, especially those that interact closely with the Windows kernel.
  • Memory (RAM) issues, including faulty modules, incorrect seating in slots, or overheating.
  • Hardware conflicts, such as multiple drivers trying to access a resource simultaneously.
  • Overclocking your CPU or GPU without proper stability testing.

Step-by-Step Fixes for 0x00000008 BSOD Error

Below are practical solutions to resolve this issue, ordered from simplest to most advanced. Start with the first method and proceed if the problem persists.

1. Restart Your Computer and Check for Windows Updates

A simple restart can sometimes clear temporary glitches that trigger BSOD errors. After rebooting, check for pending Windows updates:

  • Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I.
  • Go to Update & Security, then click Check for updates.
  • Install any available updates, including optional ones like driver improvements or system stability patches.
  • Restart your computer again if prompted.

If the error persists after updating, proceed to the next method.

2. Run System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)

Corrupted system files are a leading cause of BSOD errors. Use Windows built-in tools to scan and repair them:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator by searching for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-clicking it, and selecting Run as administrator.
  • Run the System File Checker tool with this command: 
    sfc /scannow
  • Wait for the scan to complete. If repairs are found, they will be applied automatically.
    • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup
  • Restart your computer after both scans finish.

These tools will repair corrupted system files without replacing any critical components. If the BSOD persists, move to the next method.

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3. Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers

  • Open Device Manager by pressing Windows + X and selecting Device Manager.
  • Expand categories like Display adapters, Network adapters, or Storage controllers.
  • Right-click the driver listed in the error (e.g., NVIDIA, Intel, or a storage controller) and select Update driver.
  • Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow the on-screen instructions.
  • Restart your computer to force Windows to reinstall the driver automatically.

Alternatively, use a trusted third-party tool like NVIDIA GeForce Experience (for NVIDIA GPUs) or Intel Driver & Support Assistant to update drivers. Avoid downloading drivers from untrusted sources.

4. Check for Faulty RAM Modules

If the BSOD is related to memory corruption, test your RAM modules using Windows Memory Diagnostic:

  • Press Windows + R, type “mdsched.exe”, and press Enter.
  • Select Restart now and check for problems (recommended) or schedule a scan later.
  • Follow the instructions to perform a standard test. If errors are detected, note the faulty module(s).
  • If you have multiple RAM sticks, remove one at a time and retest to identify the problematic module.
  • Run the test again to confirm the issue is resolved.

If no errors are found, your RAM may still be causing issues due to overheating or other hardware problems. Consider using a cooling pad if your system runs hot.

5. Run CHKDSK to Check for Disk Errors

Hard disk corruption can also trigger this BSOD error. Use the built-in chkdsk tool to scan and repair your drive:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Run the following command, replacing “C” with the correct drive letter if needed: 
    chkdsk C: /f /r
  • Press Enter. If prompted to schedule a scan for the next reboot, confirm and restart your computer.
  • The tool will scan your disk during startup and report any issues it finds.

If CHKDSK detects bad sectors or file system errors, Windows will automatically attempt repairs. Monitor the process for any additional error messages.

6. Disable Overclocking (If Applicable)

  • Locate the overclocking settings, such as CPU multiplier, GPU core clock, or memory timings.
  • Reset these values to their default (non-overclocked) settings.
  • Save changes and exit BIOS/UEFI. Restart your computer normally.

7. Test for Third-Party Software Conflicts

Incompatible applications can interfere with Windows kernel operations and trigger this BSOD error. To test for conflicts

Last Updated: December 07, 2025
Tested on: Windows 10 (22H2) & Windows 11 (23H2)

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