How to Fix 0x00000009 IRQL_NOT_GREATER_OR_EQUAL BSOD Error on Windows 10 & 11

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Short Answer

The 0x00000009 IRQL_NOT_GREATER_OR_EQUAL BSOD error in Windows 10 and 11 occurs when a kernel-mode process attempts to access memory at an invalid or too high privilege level. This can lead to system instability, crashes, or data corruption. While the error is often caused by hardware issues or faulty drivers, it may also appear due to software conflicts or corrupted system files.

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What Is 0x00000009 IRQL_NOT_GREATER_OR_EQUAL BSOD Error?

The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with stop code 0x00000009 is a critical system error that indicates a problem in the kernel, which is the core part of Windows responsible for managing hardware and system resources. The “IRQL_NOT_GREATER_OR_EQUAL” message means that a process tried to access memory at an incorrect privilege level or with invalid data.

This error can appear during normal operation, when installing updates, or while running specific applications. It often leads to an immediate crash, displaying the stop code and dumping system information before restarting. If you encounter this BSOD frequently, it may signal deeper issues that require attention.

Common Causes of 0x00000009 IRQL_NOT_GREATER_OR_EQUAL

The following are typical reasons for this error:

  • Faulty or outdated hardware drivers, especially those related to storage, graphics, or network devices.
  • Corrupted system files due to incomplete updates, malware, or improper shutdowns.
  • Hardware issues, such as failing RAM, overheating CPU, or a damaged hard drive.
  • Software conflicts

    , including incompatible applications, overclocking settings, or corrupted Windows components.

  • Antivirus or security software interference

    , which may incorrectly flag system processes as threats.

  • Windows updates or system corruption

    , particularly if recent updates introduced instability.

How to Fix 0x00000009 IRQL_NOT_GREATER_OR_EQUAL BSOD Error

Follow these methods in order, starting with the simplest and moving to more advanced solutions. If an earlier step resolves the issue, you can skip subsequent ones.

Method 1: Restart Your Computer and Check for Errors

Sometimes, a temporary glitch or memory error can trigger this BSOD. A simple restart may resolve it if the crash was isolated.

  • Save any open work to avoid data loss.
  • Wait 30 seconds, then press the power button again to restart your PC.

Method 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files are a common cause of BSODs. Use these built-in tools to repair them.

  • Run SFC:
    • sfc /scannow
  • Run DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management):
    • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands will scan your system for corruption and attempt to restore damaged files. If the issue persists, proceed to the next method.

Method 3: Check for Hardware Issues with Memory Diagnostics

  • Run Memory Diagnostics:
    • mdsched.exe
  • Select “Restart now and check for problems” or schedule a scan later.
  • If errors are detected, replace your RAM modules if possible.

Method 4: Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers

Outdated drivers, especially for storage (SSD/HDD) or graphics, often trigger this BSOD. Follow these steps to resolve driver-related issues:

  • Open Device Manager:
    • devmgmt.msc
  • Expand the following categories and check for errors:
    • Disk drives
    • Display adapters
    • System devices
    • Universal Serial Bus controllers (USB)
  • Update drivers manually:
    • pnputil /update-driver oem*.inf /subdir %windir%\system32\drivers
  • If no updates are available, reinstall drivers:
    • Right-click the problematic device and select “Uninstall device.”
    • Restart your computer to trigger Windows to reinstall the driver automatically.

Method 5: Check for Overheating or Hardware Failures

Overheating CPU, GPU, or other hardware can lead to memory access violations. Monitor temperatures and ensure proper cooling.

  • Use third-party tools like HWMonitor or SpeedFan to check CPU/GPU temperatures.
  • Clean dust from fans and vents if overheating is detected.
  • Reapply thermal paste if your CPU has been running hot for a long time.
  • Check SSD health:
    • wmic diskdrive get status
  • If the drive is failing, replace it or back up data immediately.

Method 6: Disable Antivirus Temporarily

Some security software may interfere with system processes, causing false positives or memory access errors. Try disabling your antivirus to see if the BSOD stops.

  • Open your antivirus program (e.g., Windows Defender, McAfee, Norton).
  • Temporarily disable real-time protection or scheduled scans.
  • Restart your computer and check if the error persists.
  • If the issue is resolved, whitelist Windows system files in your antivirus settings.

Method 7: Check for Corrupted System Files with DISM

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
    • cmd
  • Run these commands in sequence (wait for each to complete):
    • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
    • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
    • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  • If DISM reports errors, manually replace corrupted files or perform a clean Windows installation.

Method 8: Perform a Clean Boot to Identify Software Conflicts

A clean boot starts Windows with only essential drivers and services. This helps isolate whether third-party software is causing the BSOD.

  • Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) or msconfig:
    • msconfig
  • Go to the “Services” tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services,” then click “Disable all.”
  • Go to the “Startup” tab and click “Open Task Manager.”
  • In Task Manager, disable all startup items by right-clicking each and selecting “Disable.”
  • Restart your computer in clean boot mode.

Method

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

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