Blue Screen error "STOP 0x0000000A: IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL"

Fixing STOP 0x0000000A: IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Blue Screen Error

This article explains how to troubleshoot the Windows Blue Screen error 'STOP 0x0000000A: IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL'.

This error usually appears during Windows startup and is most commonly caused by bad drivers or faulty hardware/software. It occurs when a kernel-mode process tries to access a restricted memory location or does so at an IRQL (Interrupt Request Level) that's too high.

Technical note: Kernel-mode processes can only access other processes with an equal or lower IRQL.

For related errors like 0x0000001A, you may find helpful references in the Microsoft Community. Example: Bluescreen stop error 0x0000001A (0x00000404, 0xC0040690, 0x6E595847, 0xC0042790).

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

1. Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

• Open the Control Panel
• Click Administrative Tools
• Click Windows Memory Diagnostic
• Or type mdsched in the search bar and press Enter
• Choose either 'Restart now and check for problems' or 'Check for problems the next time I start my computer'
• Let the test run — press F1 to change test settings if needed
• Once the test is complete, Windows will boot and show results
• You can also view the results in Event Viewer → Windows Logs → System → Filter by 'MemoryDiagnostics-Results'

If the test shows 'no errors', your RAM is likely fine. If errors are detected, consider replacing your RAM or contacting BattleforgePC support.

2. Update All Major Drivers

• Chipset drivers
• Graphics (GPU) drivers
• Display drivers
• Network adapter drivers

3. Check Recent Hardware or Software Changes

• Disconnect or uninstall any newly added hardware
• Remove or roll back recently installed software
• See if the issue persists afterward

4. Disable Memory Caching in BIOS

Enter your BIOS during startup and disable memory caching or shadowing if available. Then save and exit.

5. Download Latest Firmware & Drivers

Get updated drivers and firmware from the CyberPowerPC Drivers & Downloads page, or from your component manufacturer's website.

Not all blue screen errors require a Windows reinstall. These steps should help you resolve the most common issues without starting from scratch.