How to Fix INCONSISTENT IRP (0X0000002A) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

How to Fix INCONSISTENT IRP (0X0000002A) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

The INCONSISTENT IRP (0x0000002A) Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is a frustrating error that can suddenly appear while using your Windows PC, often leading to system crashes or unexpected restarts. This error typically occurs when the operating system detects an inconsistency in how hardware devices communicate with the kernel, particularly related to I/O Request Packets (IRPs). While this issue can be caused by faulty drivers, corrupted system files, or hardware problems, its usually fixable without needing advanced technical skills.

In this guide, well explain what causes the INCONSISTENT IRP error, how to identify its triggers, and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it on Windows 10 and Windows 11. Follow these methods in order, starting with the simplest fixes before moving to more advanced troubleshooting.

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What Causes the INCONSISTENT IRP (0x0000002A) BSOD?

The INCONSISTENT IRP error usually appears due to one or more of the following reasons:

• Corrupted system files or registry entries: Critical Windows components may become damaged during updates, improper shutdowns, or malware activity.
• Outdated or incompatible drivers, especially those related to storage (e.g., disk controllers, USB ports, or network adapters).
• Faulty hardware, such as a failing hard drive, RAM issues, or loose connections in your system.
• Overheating or power supply problems, which can cause instability in data transfer between components.
• Third-party software conflicts, including antivirus programs, disk utilities, or overclocking tools.

The error may also appear after installing new hardware, updating Windows, or running intensive applications like games or video editing software. If you see this BSOD with a message like “INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE” or “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL”, its likely related to the same underlying issue.

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How to Fix INCONSISTENT IRP (0X0000002A) BSOD

Try these solutions in order, starting with the easiest and moving to more advanced steps.

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1. Restart Your Computer

A simple restart can sometimes resolve temporary glitches causing the error. If your system is stuck on the BSOD screen:

• Hold down the power button for 510 seconds to force a shutdown.
• Wait 30 seconds, then press the power button to restart.
• Check if the error reappears after Windows loads. If not, the issue may have been temporary.

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2. Check for Hardware Issues

Loose cables or failing hardware can trigger this error. Follow these steps:

• Inspect your connections: Open your PC case (if comfortable) and ensure all cables (SATA, power, RAM, GPU) are securely connected.
• Test your RAM: Corrupted memory is a common cause. Use Windows built-in tool:

  mdsched.exe

  Run this command in the Start menu search bar, select “Restart now and check for problems,” and follow the prompts.

• Check your hard drive health: Use CrystalDiskInfo (free tool) to scan your storage devices for errors or failing sectors.
• Monitor temperatures: Overheating can cause instability. Download HWMonitor to check CPU/GPU temps during stress tests.

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3. Update or Roll Back Drivers

Outdated or conflicting drivers often trigger this BSOD. Focus on these components:

• Update chipset, storage, and network drivers:
  • Press Win + X, then select Device Manager.
  • Expand categories like Disk drives, Storage controllers, or Network adapters.
  • Right-click each device, choose Update driver, then select Search automatically for drivers.
• Roll back problematic drivers (if you recently updated one):
  • In Device Manager, right-click the driver (e.g., NVIDIA Graphics), select Properties, then the Driver tab.
  • Click Roll Back Driver if available.
• Use Windows Update to ensure all drivers are current:

  ms-settings:windowsupdate

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4. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can cause the IRP inconsistency error. Repair them using these commands:

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator:

  cmd

  Press Ctrl + Shift + Enter, then click Yes.

• Run SFC (System File Checker) to repair missing or corrupted files:

  sfc /scannow

  Wait for the scan to complete (may take 1020 minutes). Restart if prompted.

• Run DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) to restore system health:

  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

  This may take longer. If stuck, use the /LimitAccess flag for a faster scan.

• Restart your PC after both commands finish.

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5. Check Disk for Errors with CHKDSK

If the error involves storage, run CHKDSK to fix disk corruption:

• Open Command Prompt as Admin (as above).
• Run the following command (replace C: with your system drive if needed):

  chkdsk C: /f /r /x

  • /f: Fixes errors.
  • /r: Locates bad sectors.
  • /x: Forces volume dismount (no pending writes).
• If the disk is in use, schedule it for the next reboot:

  chkdsk C: /f /r /x /b

  Restart your PC to complete the scan.

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6. Disable or Uninstall Problematic Software

Third-party software (e.g., antivirus, overclocking tools) can interfere with IRP handling:

• Boot into Safe Mode to isolate the issue:
  • Restart your PC and hold Shift while clicking Restart on the login screen.
  • Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart, then press F4 or 5 to enable Safe Mode.
• Uninstall recently installed programs:

  appwiz.cpl

  Review the list for suspicious or unnecessary software (e.g., driver boosters, RAM optimizers).

• Disable startup items temporarily to test stability:

  msconfig

  Go to the Startup tab and uncheck all non-Microsoft entries.

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7. Test for Malware or Rootkits

The error can sometimes appear due to malware corrupting system files:

• Run Windows Defender:

  Windows Security

  Go to Virus & threat protection > Quick scan.

• Use Microsofts Malicious Software Removal Tool (if needed):
  Download it here, then run it without internet.

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8. Reset or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)

If the error persists, a clean reinstall may be necessary:

• Back up your data to an external drive.
• Create installation media using another PC:
  Download Windows Media Creation Tool.
• Boot from USB and select Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Reset this PC. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything based on your needs.

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FAQ About INCONSISTENT IRP (0X0000002A)

Q: Will this error damage my hard drive?

A: The BSOD itself doesnt physically harm your hardware, but if its caused by a failing disk, you should back up data immediately and replace the drive to avoid data loss.

Q: Can I prevent this error in the future?

A: Yes. Regularly update drivers, scan for malware, and use DISM or SFC monthly. Avoid abrupt shutdowns and monitor hardware health with tools like HDDScan.

Q: Why does this happen after a Windows update?

A: Updates can introduce bugs or replace critical files. Rolling back the update (via Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Go back) may help, but ensure you have a restore point first.

Q: Is this error related to overclocking?

A: Yes, if youve overclocked your CPU/GPU, revert settings in BIOS or use stock speeds. Overheating from overclocking can cause IRP inconsistencies.

Q: Should I replace my RAM if this happens often?

A: Test with one RAM stick at a time using MemTest86. If errors appear, your RAM may be faulty. Replace it if issues persist after other fixes.

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Final Notes

The INCONSISTENT IRP (0x0000002A) BSOD is usually fixable with patience and systematic troubleshooting. Start with simple steps like restarts and driver updates, then progress to deeper scans (SFC/DISM/CHKDSK) if needed. If the problem persists after trying all methods, hardware failure (e.g., a bad SSD or RAM) is likely the culprit.

If youre unsure about any step, seek help from Microsofts Support or community forums like Microsoft Answers.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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