Critical
Operating Systems
✓ Solution Verified by Community (0+ upvotes)
How to fix error 0x00000009 in Windows 11
Bug Check 0x00000009: IRQL_NOT_GREATER_OR_EQUAL — The IRQL was not greater than or equal to the required level.
Fix based on community reports and expert analysis. Last verified: 2026-08-12
· How we verify fixes
| Error Code | 0x00000009 |
|---|---|
| Affected System | Windows 11 (Microsoft) |
| Difficulty | Critical |
| Estimated Time | 45 min |
| Requires Admin Rights | ⚠️ Yes |
| Requires Reboot | 🔄 Yes |
Solution Steps
- 1 Boot into Safe Mode as described earlier. If the error doesn't occur in Safe Mode, a third-party driver is likely the culprit.
- 2 In Safe Mode, open Device Manager and uninstall recently installed drivers. Right-click the device and select 'Uninstall device'. Restart your PC. Windows will reinstall the default driver, which might be more stable.
- 3 Run SFC and DISM: Open Command Prompt as admin and run 'sfc /scannow' and 'DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth'. This repairs system files that might be causing the IRQL issue.
- 4 Check for Windows updates and install them. Microsoft often releases fixes for driver-related bugs.
- 5 If the error persists, test your RAM: Press Windows key + R, type 'mdsched.exe', and press Enter. Choose 'Restart now and check for problems'. Windows will run a memory test. Faulty RAM can cause IRQL errors.
🔍 Didn't work? Enter your GPU and CPU for hardware-specific advice:
🔧 Still having issues?
Describe your exact problem to Error Buddy and get a personalized fix in seconds.
🛠️ Try Error Buddy — It's Free