How to Fix 0x0000000A IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL BSOD Error on Windows 10 & 11

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Short Answer

The 0x0000000A IRQL_NOT_LESS_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 problematic drivers, it can also arise from software conflicts or corrupted system files.

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Overview

The 0x0000000A BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) error, also known as IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, is a critical system failure that typically appears during startup, shutdown, or while running applications. It indicates that a process in the kernel (the core part of Windows) tried to access memory at an invalid privilege level or with incorrect permissions.

This error can be frustrating because it often happens randomly, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. However, several common fixes can resolve this issue without requiring advanced technical knowledge.

Common Causes

The IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL BSOD is usually triggered by one or more of the following issues:

  • Corrupted system files: Missing, damaged, or outdated Windows components can cause this error during system operations.
  • Faulty hardware drivers: Drivers for graphics cards, network adapters, storage devices, or other hardware may conflict with the operating system or each other.
  • Overclocking or unstable hardware: If your CPU, RAM, or other hardware is overclocked improperly, it can lead to memory access violations.
  • Malware infections: Certain types of malware can manipulate system memory in unsafe ways, causing this error.
  • Windows updates or software changes

    : Recent updates, driver installations, or system modifications may introduce instability.

Fix Methods

Follow these step-by-step solutions to troubleshoot and resolve the 0x0000000A BSOD error. Start with the simplest methods and proceed to more advanced ones if needed.

1. Restart Your Computer

The most basic fix is to restart your computer. Sometimes, a temporary glitch or memory issue can cause this error, and a simple reboot may resolve it without further action.

2. Check for Windows Updates

Outdated system files or drivers can lead to the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL BSOD. Ensure your Windows is up-to-date by running the following command in an elevated Command Prompt:

wsappx /update /quiet /norestart

Restart your computer afterward to apply any updates.

3. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files are a frequent cause of this error. Use the built-in tools System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) to scan and repair them.

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run: 
    sfc /scannow
  2. Wait for the scan to complete. If issues are found, they will be automatically repaired.
  3. Next, run DISM with the following command: 
    dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
  4. Restart your computer after both processes finish.

4. Update or Roll Back Drivers

Faulty drivers, especially for graphics cards, network adapters, or storage devices, are a leading cause of this BSOD. Follow these steps to update or revert problematic drivers:

  1. Open the Device Manager by pressing Win + X and selecting it.
  2. Look for devices with a yellow exclamation mark (e.g., Display adapters, Network adapters) and right-click them. Choose Update driver or Roll back driver if available.
  3. If no issues are flagged, manually check for updates to your graphics card, chipset, and other critical drivers from the manufacturer’s website (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel).
  4. Restart your computer after updating any drivers.

5. Test Your RAM

Faulty or incompatible RAM can cause memory access violations leading to this BSOD. Use Windows’ built-in tool to test for issues:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run: 
    mdsched
  2. Restart your computer when prompted. The tool will run a memory diagnostic scan.
  3. If errors are detected, replace the faulty RAM module or consult hardware documentation for compatibility fixes.

6. Check Disk Integrity with CHKDSK

Corrupted files on your hard drive can also trigger this BSOD. Run the following command in Command Prompt to check and repair disk errors:

chkdsk /f /r

This may take some time, especially if your drive is large. Restart your computer afterward.

7. Scan for Malware

Malware can manipulate system memory in unsafe ways, causing the IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error. Use Windows Defender or a trusted third-party antivirus tool to perform a full system scan:

  1. Open Windows Security by clicking the shield icon in the taskbar.
  2. Go to Virus & threat protection and click Quick Scan. Wait for it to finish, then proceed with a Full Scan if no threats are found.
  3. If malware is detected, follow the recommended actions to quarantine or remove it. Restart your computer afterward.

8. Disable Overclocking (if applicable)

If you have overclocked your CPU or RAM, this can lead to memory access violations and the 0x0000000A BSOD. Reset your hardware settings to default:

  1. Open your system’s BIOS/UEFI by pressing the appropriate key (usually Del, F2, or Esc) during startup.
  2. Look for options related to overclocking, such as CPU multiplier, RAM speed, or XMP/DOCP profiles. Set them back to default or auto.
  3. Save changes and exit BIOS/UEFI. Restart your computer afterward.

9. Use a System Restore Point (if available)

If the error started after recent software changes, you can revert your system to a stable state using a restore point:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run: 
    rstrui
  2. Select Choose a different restore point if prompted.
  3. Click Next, then select the most recent restore point before the issue began. If no points are listed, this option may not be available.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm and complete the restore process.
  5. Restart your computer afterward.

10. Perform a Clean Boot (if needed)

A clean boot temporarily disables third-party software, allowing you to determine if a background application is causing the BSOD:

  1. Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
  2. Go to the Startup tab and disable all items. Restart your computer.
  3. If the error does not reappear, gradually re-enable startup items one by one to identify the culprit.
  4. Once identified, update or reinstall the problematic software.

11. Check for Hardware Issues

Faulty hardware, such as a failing hard drive, overheating CPU, or loose connections, can also trigger this BSOD. Perform these checks:

  1. Open the Event Viewer by pressing Win + X, selecting Task Manager

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

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