A Complete Guide to Fixing the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (rtwlanu.sys) Blue Screen Error in Windows 10
The dreaded blue screen of death (BSOD) is a common Windows problem, often caused by driver issues. One particularly frustrating error is DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, often appearing with the culprit identified as rtwlanu.sys. This file is related to your Realtek wireless network adapter. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various solutions to resolve this issue and get your system back up and running smoothly.
Understanding the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Error
The DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error essentially means a driver is trying to access a memory location it shouldn't be. The rtwlanu.sys reference points towards a problem with your Realtek wireless network adapter driver. This can stem from various factors, including:
- Corrupted or outdated drivers: This is the most common cause. An outdated or corrupted driver can lead to conflicts and instability.
- Hardware issues: While less likely, problems with your wireless adapter itself could be to blame.
- Driver conflicts: Other drivers might be interfering with the rtwlanu.sys driver.
- System file corruption: Damaged Windows system files can also trigger this error.
Troubleshooting Steps: Resolving the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (rtwlanu.sys) Error
Here's a systematic approach to troubleshooting and fixing this problem. Remember to try each step sequentially, and restart your computer after each one.
1. Update Your Wireless Adapter Driver
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Device Manager: Open Device Manager (search for it in the Windows search bar). Expand "Network adapters," right-click on your Realtek Wireless LAN adapter, select "Update driver," and choose "Search automatically for drivers." Windows will search for and install the latest driver.
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Realtek Website: Alternatively, visit the official Realtek website and download the most recent driver for your specific adapter model. Carefully follow their installation instructions. Important note: We cannot directly provide links to external websites.
2. Roll Back Your Wireless Adapter Driver
If you recently updated your driver, rolling it back to a previous version might resolve the issue:
- Device Manager: In Device Manager, right-click on your Realtek Wireless LAN adapter, select "Properties," go to the "Driver" tab, and click "Roll Back Driver."
3. Uninstall and Reinstall Your Wireless Adapter Driver
A clean reinstall can often fix corrupted drivers:
- Device Manager: In Device Manager, right-click on your Realtek Wireless LAN adapter, select "Uninstall device." Restart your computer. Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.
4. Run a System File Checker Scan
Damaged system files can contribute to BSODs. The System File Checker (SFC) tool can help:
- Command Prompt (Admin): Open Command Prompt as administrator (search for "cmd," right-click, and select "Run as administrator"). Type
sfc /scannowand press Enter. Allow the scan to complete.
5. Check for Hardware Issues
While less common, a faulty wireless adapter could be the culprit. If possible, try connecting to your network using a wired connection (Ethernet cable) to see if the problem persists. If the BSOD disappears, it points towards a hardware issue requiring further investigation.
6. Update Windows
Outdated Windows versions can sometimes conflict with drivers. Ensure your system is up-to-date:
- Windows Update: Go to "Settings" > "Update & Security" > "Windows Update" and check for updates.
Preventing Future DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Errors
- Regular Driver Updates: Keep your drivers, especially your network adapter driver, up to date.
- Regular Windows Updates: Regularly install Windows updates to patch security vulnerabilities and improve system stability.
- Clean Installation: Periodically consider performing a clean installation of Windows. This can resolve many underlying system issues.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (rtwlanu.sys) blue screen error. Remember to restart your computer after each troubleshooting step. If the problem persists, you might need to consult a professional technician for further assistance. Good luck!
