IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

Solution 1 of 7 - Get Latest Service Pack

Microsoft has identified a problem with the OSes listed below that require updating to the current service pack to fix this issue:

For Windows Vista pre-SP1, with 3 GB or more of memory, you'll need the current service pack (Micorosft article 929777).

For Windows Vista pre-SP1, when storport.sys is identifed with 4 GB or more of memory and using Nivida chipset, you'll need the current service pack (Microsoft article 930261).

If you are attempting to use Roxio Easy CD Creator 5, it is not compatible with XP or later Windows versions. Uninstall or upgrade to a current Roxio version (Microsoft article 310628).

Solution 3 of 7 - Use Last Known Good Configuration

If you are unable successfully boot into Windows because of the fatal error, Windows has an option to reload registry information from the last successful boot. To revert to the last successful boot:

1. Reboot the computer.
2. Near the end of the BIOS messages or graphic, but well before anything appears from Windows, press the F8 key. You may only have a few seconds to get the right spot to press F8 before it attempts to go into Windows. If the BIOS complains about a pressed key or asks you to go into BIOS setup, you've pressed F8 too soon (Don't go into BIOS setup).
3. When successful, you should see a back screen with white text "Windows Advanced Options". Use the up or down arrow keys to highlight Last Known Good Configuration and press Enter.

Solution 4 of 7 - Check Memory

You may have a defective memory. This is even more likely if it only occurs when the system is cold or hot, but not all the time. Use a memory tester to confirm if it is defective or if you have spare memory, try replacement.

Windows Vista now includes a Memory Test program when booting from the

Installation DVD. Step-by-step instructions with screen shots are

available at Using System Restore on Vista/2008 as part of System Recovery.

Several software products that also provide memory and video diagnostics includes Fix-It Utilities Professional and SystemSuite Professional. Other diagnostic products include Eurosoft's PC Check and Iolo's System Mechanic.

Additional Memory Solutions:

• Confirm all the memory is of the same type and speed. Many motherboards only work correctly when the memory is installed with matched sets and matched speeds.
• If you added or changed your memory just before this problem occurred, try reverting to the prior memory configuration to confirm it's the source of the problem.
• Check that the memory is fully seated in the sockets. Memory sockets often have side latches that need to be upright to indicate the memory is correctly locked in place.
• It's also possible the memory problem is on the video card, as they often contain additional memory. The video card should be tested and/or try a different video card to see if the problem goes away.

Solution 5 of 7 - Uninstall the Last Install

If you can get the system up for more than a few minutes or can use safe mode, try removing the last installed software application or driver.

For removal of an application (Windows Vista):

1. Click on Start, Control Panel, then Programs and Features.
2. Select the software to uninstall and select Uninstall.

For removal of an application (Windows XP):

1. Click on Start, Control Panel, then Add or Remove Programs.
2. Select the software to uninstall and select Remove.

To disable a driver:

1. Bring up the system information dialog:

   On the keyboard, press the Windows key + Pause/Break.

or

Select Start, right click Computer and on the drop-down, select Properties.

2. Click on the left side option Advanced system settings (Vista only).
3. In System Properties, select the Hardware tab, then click on Device Manager button.
4. Find the hardware/driver of interest (you may need to expand a choice at the "plus" graphic) and double click the choice.
5. Select the Driver tab. Here you can perform a number of actions such as update the driver, roll Back the driver to an older version, disable or uninstall the driver.
6. Click OK to exit, then close the Device Manager and other previously opened dialogs.

Solution 6 of 7 - Get the latest Drivers

Check if you are using the latest hardware drivers, especially the chipset and video drivers. Older drivers are a common contributor to BSoD issues.

You can use a product like Driver Genius or Radar Sync to verify you have the latest drivers and help keep all your drivers up-to-date. If you're comfortable with driver installations, you can individually find and install current drivers.

A some of the most popular driver download sites:

• CPU and Chipset Drivers: AMD, Intel, Via
• Video Drivers: ATI, Intel, Nvida
• Computer and other hardware manufacturers

Solution 7 of 7 - Get the Latest Updates

Install the latest Windows software updates. Don't forget to check for non-critical updates too!

To manually get updates, open Internet Explorer (you can't use a non-Microsoft browser for updates).

Click on Tools, then Windows Update. Follow the instructions.

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