Solved: IRQL NOT LESS OR EQUAL (0X0000000A) BSOD Crash on Windows 10/11

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Solved: IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (0X0000000A) BSOD Crash on Windows 10/11

The **IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAl (0x0000000A)** Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is one of the most common and frustrating errors in Windows, often appearing unexpectedly with a critical system crash. This error typically occurs when a kernel-mode process or driver tries to access memory at an invalid memory address, violating the system’s protection rules. If you’re seeing this stop code after a recent update, hardware change, or while running demanding applications, follow these steps to diagnose and fix the issue.

What Causes IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (0x000A) BSOD?

The error usually stems from:

  • Corrupt or outdated device drivers, especially graphics, network, or storage controllers.
  • Faulty RAM or hardware issues, including bad memory modules or overheating components.
  • Malware or system file corruption affecting kernel operations.
  • Incompatible software or drivers, particularly after installing new updates, games, or applications.
  • Overclocking or BIOS/UEFI misconfigurations

Step-by-Step Fixes for IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (0x000A)

1. Check for Recent Changes and Roll Back Drivers

If the BSOD started after installing new software, updates, or hardware:

  • Open **Settings** > **Update & Security** > **Windows Update**, then click **View update history**. Uninstall recent updates.
  • Go to **Device Manager** (press Win + X, then select it). Look for devices with a yellow exclamation mark or error symbols, right-click them, and choose **Properties** > **Driver** tab. Note the driver version and manufacturer.
  • Use the manufacturers website to download the latest stable driver version and install it manually.

2. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can trigger this error. Open **Command Prompt as Administrator** and run:

sfc /scannow

If SFC doesnt resolve the issue, also run:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Restart your PC after each command completes.

3. Check for Hardware Issues (RAM and Storage)

Faulty RAM or a failing hard drive can cause this error:

  • Run **Memory Diagnostic Tool**:
    – Open **Task Manager** > **Performance** tab.
    – Click **Open Resource Monitor** > **Memory** tab, then check for errors.
  • Use Windows built-in memory test: 
    mdsched.exe

    Select “Restart now and check for problems.”

  • Check your hard drive health using File Explorer:
    – Right-click the drive > **Properties** > **Tools** tab.
    – Click **Check** under “Error checking” (this may take time).

4. Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers

The most common culprits are GPU, chipset, and network drivers:

  • Open **Device Manager**, expand **Display adapters** or other suspicious categories.
  • Right-click the driver (e.g., NVIDIA/AMD graphics) > **Update driver** > **Search automatically for drivers**. If no update is found, use the manufacturers software (e.g., GeForce Experience).
  • If the issue persists, uninstall the driver:
    – Right-click the device > **Uninstall device**.
    – Restart your PC to trigger Windows to reinstall the driver.

5. Test for Overheating or Hardware Failure

Overheating can cause kernel-level crashes:

  • Use third-party tools like **HWMonitor** or **Core Temp** to monitor CPU/GPU temperatures.
  • Clean dust from fans and vents, ensure proper airflow, and reapply thermal paste if needed.
  • If using a laptop, check for loose connections or overheating on the bottom surface.

6. Disable Overclocking (If Applicable)

If youve overclocked your CPU/GPU:

  • Enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing Del, F2, or Esc during boot).
  • Reset all overclocking settings to default and save changes.

7. Check for Malware and System Corruption

Run a full scan with:

8. Perform a Clean Boot to Isolate the Issue

A clean boot starts Windows with minimal drivers/services:

  • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  • Go to the **Services** tab, check **Hide all Microsoft services**, then click **Disable all**.
  • Go to the **Startup** tab, click **Open Task Manager**, disable all startup items, then restart.
  • If the system is stable, re-enable drivers/services one by one to identify the culprit.

FAQ: IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (0x000A) BSOD

Why does this error appear randomly?

Random crashes often indicate hardware instability, such as faulty RAM, overheating, or a failing storage drive. Run memory tests and monitor temperatures to pinpoint the issue.

Can I prevent future BSODs after fixing it?

Yes! Keep drivers updated, avoid overclocking unless necessary, and use reliable hardware. Regularly scan for malware and maintain proper system cooling.

Is this error related to my antivirus software?

Rarely, but some security suites (e.g., third-party AV) can conflict with kernel operations. Try disabling it temporarily in a clean boot test.

What if the BSOD happens during gaming or heavy workloads?

This often points to GPU/driver issues. Update your graphics driver, check for overheating, and ensure your PSU is stable. Test with integrated graphics (if available) to rule out GPU failure.

Final Notes

The **IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL** error is usually fixable by addressing driver conflicts, hardware issues, or system corruption. Start with the simplest steps (driver updates, SFC/DISM) before diving deeper into hardware diagnostics. If the problem persists after trying all methods, consider checking manufacturer support for your specific hardware.

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

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

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