How to Fix Windows Error Code 0x0000009A

Windows error code 0x0000009A is a critical system error that often causes a blue screen of death (BSOD), impacting system stability and performance. This issue is typically related to driver conflicts, system file corruption, or hardware malfunctions. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore detailed steps to effectively resolve error code 0x0000009A and restore your Windows system to its optimal state.

Understanding Error Code 0x0000009A

Error code 0x0000009A, also known as IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, indicates that a system process attempted to access a memory location that it does not have permission to access. This can result from various issues, including:

Faulty drivers
Corrupt system files
Hardware problems
Conflicting software

Step 1: Update Device Drivers

Outdated or corrupt drivers are common culprits for error code 0x0000009A. To resolve this issue, updating your device drivers is crucial.

1.1. Use Device Manager

Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
Expand the categories and locate the devices with a yellow exclamation mark, indicating a driver issue.
Right-click on the device and select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will search for the latest driver updates and install them.

1.2. Visit Manufacturer's Website

For specific hardware components, such as graphics cards or network adapters, it is often beneficial to visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest drivers.

Identify your hardware component.
Go to the manufacturer’s official website.
Locate the Support or Downloads section.
Search for the latest driver version compatible with your system.

Step 2: Perform System File Check

Corrupt system files can also trigger error code 0x0000009A. Running the System File Checker (SFC) tool can help restore these files.

2.1. Run SFC Scan

Open Command Prompt as an administrator by pressing Win + X and selecting Command Prompt (Admin).
Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
The system will begin scanning and repairing corrupted system files. This process may take some time, so be patient.

2.2. Use DISM Tool

If the SFC scan does not resolve the issue, use the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM).

Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:

bashDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Restart your computer after the DISM tool completes its process.

Step 3: Check for Hardware Issues

Hardware malfunctions can contribute to error code 0x0000009A. Performing hardware diagnostics can help identify any underlying problems.

3.1. Test RAM

Faulty RAM can cause various system errors. Use the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool to check your RAM.

Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type mdsched.exe and press Enter.
Choose Restart now and check for problems.
The system will reboot and perform a memory test. Follow the on-screen instructions based on the test results.

3.2. Check Hard Drive Health

Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Type chkdsk /f and press Enter.
The system will prompt you to schedule a check on the next restart. Type Y and press Enter.
Restart your computer to allow the disk check to complete.

Step 4: Uninstall Recent Software or Updates

Recent software installations or updates can sometimes cause conflicts leading to error code 0x0000009A.

4.1. Uninstall Recent Software

Press Win + I to open Settings.
Navigate to Apps > Apps & features.
Locate and select the recently installed software.
Click Uninstall and follow the prompts to remove the software.

4.2. Roll Back Windows Updates

Press Win + I to open Settings.
Go to Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history.
Select Uninstall updates.
Choose the recent updates and uninstall them if they are suspected of causing the issue.

Step 5: Restore System to an Earlier Point

If the issue persists, performing a system restore to a previous state can help resolve the error.

5.1. Use System Restore

Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type rstrui.exe and press Enter.
Follow the prompts to restore your system to a point before the error occurred.

Step 6: Reinstall Windows

If none of the previous steps resolve the issue, a clean reinstall of Windows might be necessary.

6.1. Backup Your Data

Before reinstalling Windows, ensure all your important data is backed up to avoid data loss.

6.2. Reinstall Windows

Download the Windows installation media from the official Microsoft website.
Create a bootable USB drive using the Windows Media Creation Tool.
Boot from the USB drive and follow the installation instructions.

Conclusion

Fixing Windows error code 0x0000009A requires a systematic approach to address potential causes such as driver issues, system file corruption, hardware problems, and conflicting software. By following the detailed steps outlined in this guide, we can effectively resolve the error and restore system stability.

Implement these solutions to tackle error code 0x0000009A and enhance your Windows experience. Regular system maintenance and updates are essential for preventing similar issues in the future.

How to fix Windows error code 0x0000009A