Fixing IRQL NOT DISPATCH LEVEL (0X00000008) Stop Code on Windows 10 & 11 – Step by Step

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Fixing IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (0x0000008) Stop Code on Windows 10 & 11 Step by Step

The IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (0x0000008) error, often referred to as a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), is a critical system crash that can occur on Windows 10 and 11. This stop code typically indicates a problem with kernel-mode processing, where the system attempts to execute an operation at a lower interrupt request level (IRQL) than allowed. If you encounter this error, your PC will suddenly restart or freeze, displaying a blue screen with technical details before crashing again. Below, well explain what causes this issue and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

What Causes the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (0x0000008) Error?

The error usually occurs due to hardware or driver-related issues, such as:

  • Corrupt system files: Damaged Windows components can trigger this stop code.
  • Faulty or outdated drivers, especially graphics, network, or storage drivers.
  • Hardware conflicts

    or failing RAM modules.

  • Malware or virus infections that corrupt system files.
  • Overclocking or overutilized CPU/GPU, which can cause instability.
  • Incompatible software or drivers installed recently.

How to Fix IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (0x0000008) Error

Method 1: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

The first step is to repair corrupted system files using built-in Windows tools. Follow these steps:

  • Press Win + X and select Terminal (Admin) or open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each: 
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    sfc /scannow
  • Wait for the process to complete (this may take several minutes). Restart your PC afterward.

Method 2: Update or Reinstall Drivers

Outdated or conflicting drivers are a common cause of this error. Heres how to fix them:

  • Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  • Expand categories like Display adapters, Network adapters, or Storage controllers. Right-click any device with a yellow exclamation mark and select Update driver.
  • If no updates are available, right-click the device again and choose Uninstall device, then restart your PC. Windows will reinstall it automatically.
  • For graphics drivers (e.g., NVIDIA/AMD), download the latest version from the manufacturers website instead of using Windows Update.

Method 3: Run CHKDSK to Check for Disk Errors

Corrupted files on your hard drive can trigger this error. Use CHKDSK to scan and repair disk issues:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Type the following command and press Enter: 
    chkdsk C: /f /r

    (Replace C: with your system drive letter if needed.)

  • If prompted, confirm to schedule the scan for the next reboot. Restart your PC.

Method 4: Test and Replace Faulty RAM

Faulty RAM can cause IRQL-related crashes. Test it using Windows Memory Diagnostic:

  • Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
  • Select Restart now and check for problems (recommended).
  • Follow the on-screen instructions. If errors are found, replace your RAM modules if necessary.

Method 5: Check for Malware

Malware can corrupt system files. Run a full scan using Windows Defender:

  • Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
  • Go to Virus & threat protection > Quick scan. If threats are found, follow the removal steps.
  • For thorough scanning, use Microsoft Defender Offline Scan (available in Windows Security settings).

Method 6: Disable Overclocking or Cooling Settings

If youve overclocked your CPU/GPU or used custom cooling profiles, reset them to default:

  • Open BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing Del/F2 during boot).
  • Reset all overclocking settings to default and save changes.
  • Monitor temperatures using third-party tools like HWInfo to ensure theyre within safe limits.

Method 7: Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot helps identify if a background app or service is causing the issue:

  • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  • Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
  • Switch to the Startup tab, click Open Task Manager, and disable all startup items.
  • Restart your PC. If the error doesnt occur, re-enable services/apps one by one to identify the culprit.

Method 8: Reset or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)

If the issue persists, a clean install may be necessary:

  • Back up important files using File Explorer or a third-party tool.
  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, then select Reset this PC. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything based on your needs.
  • Follow the prompts to complete the reset. This will reinstall Windows while preserving (or removing) personal data.

FAQ: Common Questions About IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

Q: Will this error delete my files?

A: No, the BSOD itself doesnt harm your files, but frequent crashes can lead to corruption. Always back up important data regularly.

Q: Can I prevent this error in the future?

A: Yes! Keep drivers updated, avoid overclocking, use reliable antivirus software, and monitor system stability with tools like Windows Memory Diagnostic.

Q: Is this error related to my hardware?

A: Often yes. Test RAM, GPU, and storage drives for faults using built-in tools or third-party diagnostics like MemTest86.

Q: Why does this happen after a Windows update?

A: Updates can introduce bugs. If the issue starts after an update, roll back the update via Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history > Uninstall updates.

Q: Should I replace my RAM if this error occurs?

A: Only if memory tests (like MemTest86) confirm faults. Otherwise, try other troubleshooting steps first.

Final Notes

The IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (0x0000008) error can be frustrating, but its usually fixable with systematic troubleshooting. Start with SFC and DISM, then progress to driver updates, hardware checks, and malware scans. If the problem persists, consider a clean Windows installation as a last resort. If youre unsure about any steps, seek help from Microsoft Support or trusted tech forums.

By following these methods, you should be able to resolve the issue and restore stability to your system. Always ensure your drivers and software are up to date to minimize future occurrences.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Tested on: Windows 10 (22H2) & Windows 11 (23H2)

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