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Fix Windows Error: DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL ACPI.SYS

11 min read 11-15- 2024
Fix Windows Error: DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL ACPI.SYS

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Fixing the Windows Error: DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL ACPI.SYS 🛠️

Experiencing a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on your Windows computer can be a frustrating ordeal, particularly when you're faced with the error message: DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL ACPI.SYS. This critical issue is often linked to driver conflicts, hardware malfunctions, or problems with the ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface). In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the causes of this error and provide effective solutions to resolve it.

Understanding the Error

What is ACPI.SYS?

The file ACPI.SYS is a crucial Windows system file responsible for power management and configuration on your computer. The Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) facilitates communication between the operating system and your hardware, allowing for efficient power management and device configuration. When there's an issue with ACPI.SYS, it can lead to the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error.

What Does DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Mean?

The DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error indicates that a kernel-mode driver attempted to access a memory address at an invalid IRQL (Interrupt Request Level). In simpler terms, this means that a driver tried to perform an operation that it shouldn't have been allowed to do, resulting in a system crash.

Common Causes of ACPI.SYS Error

The DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL ACPI.SYS error can be triggered by various factors, including:

  1. Outdated or Corrupted Drivers: Driver incompatibilities are a leading cause of this error.
  2. Hardware Issues: Faulty RAM or malfunctioning hardware can disrupt the communication between the system and drivers.
  3. Malware or Virus: Malicious software can damage system files, including drivers.
  4. Corrupted Windows Files: Any corruption in the operating system files can lead to this error.

Solutions to Fix DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL ACPI.SYS Error

Here’s a detailed guide on how to fix this Windows error effectively.

1. Update Your Drivers 🖥️

Keeping your drivers up to date is essential for smooth operation. Follow these steps to update your drivers:

  • Open Device Manager:

    • Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.

  • Update Drivers:

    • Expand the categories (such as Display adapters or Network adapters).
    • Right-click on each device and choose Update driver.
    • Select Search automatically for updated driver software.

  • Restart Your Computer:

    • Restart your system and check if the error persists.

2. Roll Back Drivers 🚶

If you recently updated a driver and the error started appearing, consider rolling it back:

  • Access Device Manager:

    • Open Device Manager as described above.

  • Roll Back Driver:

    • Find the device, right-click it, and select Properties.
    • Navigate to the Driver tab and click on Roll Back Driver.

  • Confirm the Action:

    • Follow the prompts and restart your computer to see if the issue is resolved.

3. Check for Windows Updates 🔄

Ensure your Windows OS is fully updated, as updates can fix bugs and improve stability:

  • Access Windows Update:

    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

  • Check for Updates:

    • Click on Check for updates and install any available updates.

  • Restart Your Computer:

    • After installation, restart your system and check for the error again.

4. Run a Memory Check 🧠

Faulty RAM could lead to the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL ACPI.SYS error. Use Windows Memory Diagnostic:

  • Open Memory Diagnostic:

    • Type Windows Memory Diagnostic in the search bar and run the tool.

  • Choose Restart Option:

    • Select Restart now and check for problems.

  • Review Results:

    • After the diagnostic completes, check the results to see if any issues were found.

5. Scan for Malware 🦠

Malware could cause system file corruption. Run a thorough malware scan using your antivirus software or Windows Defender:

  • Open Windows Security:

    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.

  • Run a Full Scan:

    • Click on Virus & threat protection, and under Current threats, select Scan options.
    • Choose Full scan and initiate the scan.

6. Check for Corrupted System Files ⚠️

Using the System File Checker (SFC) tool can help repair corrupted system files:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator:

    • Type cmd in the search bar, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.

  • Run SFC Command:

    • Type the following command and press Enter:
      sfc /scannow

  • Review Results:

    • After the scan completes, follow any on-screen instructions to repair the files.

7. Use System Restore ⏳

If the issue started recently, using System Restore can revert your system to a previous state:

  • Open System Restore:

    • Type Create a restore point in the search bar and select it.

  • Click System Restore:

    • Under the System Protection tab, click on System Restore.

  • Follow the Wizard:

    • Choose a restore point and follow the prompts to restore your system.

8. Disable ACPI in BIOS (Advanced) ⚙️

Important Note: Disabling ACPI may affect power management features on your computer. Proceed with caution and ensure you understand the implications.

  • Access BIOS/UEFI:

    • Restart your computer and press the required key (often F2, Delete, or Esc) to enter BIOS.

  • Find ACPI Settings:

    • Navigate to the Power Management section and look for ACPI settings.

  • Disable ACPI:

    • Change the setting to Disabled and save changes before exiting BIOS.

9. Check Hardware Compatibility 🛠️

Ensure all your hardware components are compatible with your version of Windows:

  • Check Device Compatibility:

    • Visit the manufacturer’s website to confirm hardware compatibility.

  • Test Hardware Components:

    • If possible, test your hardware in another working computer to rule out hardware failure.

Table: Common Solutions to ACPI.SYS Error

<table> <tr> <th>Solution</th> <th>Description</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Update Drivers</td> <td>Ensure all device drivers are up-to-date.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Roll Back Drivers</td> <td>Revert to an earlier driver version if issues arose after an update.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Check for Windows Updates</td> <td>Install the latest updates for Windows OS.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Run Memory Check</td> <td>Use Windows Memory Diagnostic to check for RAM issues.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Scan for Malware</td> <td>Use antivirus software to check for malware infections.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Check System Files</td> <td>Run SFC to repair corrupted system files.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Use System Restore</td> <td>Revert to a previous system state before the error appeared.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Disable ACPI in BIOS</td> <td>Advanced option to disable ACPI if necessary.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Check Hardware Compatibility</td> <td>Ensure all hardware components are compatible with the OS.</td> </tr> </table>

Final Thoughts

Dealing with the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL ACPI.SYS error can be intimidating, but with the right steps, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively. Start by checking for outdated drivers, running diagnostics, and ensuring your system is free from malware. If these measures don’t work, consider reverting your system or checking hardware components.

By following this guide, you can hopefully resolve the BSOD error and enjoy a smoother computing experience. If the problem persists, it may be beneficial to consult a professional technician for further assistance. Remember, regular maintenance and updates can prevent many issues related to system stability and performance. Happy computing! 🌟

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