Do you want to fix driver error IRQL_LESS_OR_NOT_EQUAL in Windows 10? When Windows 10 runs properly, then it runs quite well. When it doesn’t run properly, you can then view the terrific blue screen of death (BSOD). The BSOD or blue screen of death can’t offer much help in fixing the bugs that caused it. However, by default Windows will restart your PC seconds after displaying you the BSOD. You are lucky if you can catch the actual error that caused it.
DRIVER IRQL_LESS_OR_NOT_EQUAL -> It is an error that Windows 10 users often see.
It generates the BSOD and Windows 10 explains the Google solution. This error is difficult and complex to pin on any one thing. Try these things to fix the DRIVER IRQL_LESS_OR_NOT_EQUAL error.
Contents
- 1 Driver Error: IRQL_LESS_OR_NOT_EQUAL
- 2 Conclusion:
Driver Error: IRQL_LESS_OR_NOT_EQUAL
The DRIVER error applies to a wide range of issues that a PC might encounter. It means that when your driver is having a tough time interacting with the hardware. There is no size that fits all fixes for it, but chances are one of the following fixes will resolve it.
Fix 1 – Update BIOS & All Drivers
Update and check all drivers. Also, you must install these drivers from the developer’s website when the drivers installed by Windows Update risk might out of date or can’t support few cases. Download the exact model corresponding to your version. Your hardware’s version number will be mentioned on the box it shipped in. If you don’t have the box, then check the device itself.
However, an update for your BIOS (the first screen you’ll view after power up your PC) is out, definitely update it as well. Certainly, some drivers are written in with a newly updated BIOS that puts you at risk of a BSOD.
Fix 2 – Event Viewer
If the above fix can’t work properly, then you want to check where the issue might be coming from. Windows has a built-in tool known as ‘Event Viewer’. You can just search for it in the Windows Search bar/Cortana.
Also, the Event Viewer has a log of all complex errors, warnings, and texts using their time stamps. It probably a little boring, but if you move through each critical error, you can then check which device caused problems. If the problem is recurring with the same device, then check the issue right there.
If it is a case of defective drivers, then you want to fully erase the old one and again install them. Initially, install the latest driver from the developer website, then erase the driver after using the following instructions:
Step 1:
Head over to the Control Panel
Step 2:
Move to Device Manager
Step 3:
Right-tap the device that is causing the error
Step 4:
Choose ‘Uninstall’ from the context menu
After it is fully erased, install the downloaded driver then restart your PC.
Fix 3 – Erase Overclocking Tool
Overclocking tools are built to enhance your hardware’s performance beyond its limits. Erase all overclocking tools and backup your hardware to factory defaults. Then erase the overclocking software. The issue should be gone.
If you like to overclock again, then install it again as a fresh copy of the software and this time do it slowly so as not to push your hardware to its breaking point again. The error caused by Windows 10 not working properly with your overclocking tool. It is possible you probably have to select between running Windows 10 perfectly or overclocking your PC.
Fix 4 – Again install Audio or Network Drivers
While updating the drivers can’t work, then check to erase and reinstalling any defective drivers. Certainly, Windows installs or downloads a generic model of a driver that conflicts with the hardware. If you want to address that, first install your hardware’s correct driver from its developer website (for your exact version). Also, if you want to check the exact version, refer to the original package. If you do not have the package, then unplug the device and check it physically for a version number.
While having more than one network installed, then don’t follow each one.
Step 1:
Head over to the Control Panel app
Step 2:
Then check the Device Manager
Step 3:
Right-tap on the Network Adapter
Step 4:
Tap ‘Uninstall’ from the context menu
Then, install your downloaded driver and the bug should be gone. Next time you want to update that specific driver, get a new one from the builder website. Ignore allowing Windows download that driver for you and you must be fine.
If the issue still continues, then view if you can try using an external or another network device.
Fix 5 – Update or Modify VPN software
Well, the error is also a network problem as VPN software is assumed to redirect your traffic to a different location around the planet. Certainly, outdated VPN software makes requests that hardware doesn’t know how to fulfill. Updating your VPN software should help remove issues.
If the issue still exists, erase the VPN software from Control Panel > Programs and Features > Right tap> Uninstall. If that solution works, you probably have to modify VPN software you use to one that is supported by your PC.
Fix 6 – Anti-Virus or Firewall Tools
Third-party security tools also provide protection to your PC. In some situations, security measures probably interfere with the PC’s daily performance. Erasing said protection software should fix the issue. Just try to use a distinct anti-virus to keep your PC secure.
If you want to fully remove an antivirus software we strongly recommend that you use one of the dedicated uninstallers. Some antivirus enterprises have uninstaller tools that are available on their websites. You can then use them to erase a specific antivirus program from your computer.
Once you’ve erased your antivirus software, then try to reinstall it, or install any other antivirus software.
Fix 7 – Reset your Windows 10
If all other fails and ruled out any physical faults, then might a full reset is in order. This will remove all of your files and settings from Windows 10, whenever any apps that you’ve installed. You want to take a proper backup and backup it afterward. Follow these instructions to reset Windows 10.
Head over to the Settings app and move to the Update & Security group of settings. Head over to the Recovery tab and choose Reset this PC.
Choose Remove Everything then reset Windows 10.
Fix 8 – Check Hardware Performance
If all software fixes have been exhausted, then it might behoove one to check the hardware for physical faults. Certainly, the cooling system under-performs, overheating your PC, and certainly, Windows can’t generate temperature warnings. Then head over to your PC to individually unscrew, unplug, erase, check for physical defects (such as burn marks, dust), clean and again install each part.
Conclusion:
Here’s all about “Turn Off Fast User Switching”. I hope that you can now fix your issue as we covered every information regarding this error. If you still face any issue then try to use given methods separately. Also, if you know any other alternative method that you think we can’t cover in this guide then let us in the comment section below!
If you have any queries and questions then let us know in the comment section given below.
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