Question
Issue: How to Fix Ndistpr64.sys BSOD Error?
Please help!!!! I assume that a virus infected my computer with the MS Office update or another program that I’ve recently downloaded. Now I’m really frustrated because my PC starts as it does normally, but after 20 seconds, it gets stuck with a BSOD, which reads as following: Stop Code: DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL What Failed: ndistpr64.sys. What does it mean? How to fix that?
Solved Answer
DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL is a BSOD[1] error, which occurs on Windows OS when the files like mfewfpk.sys, ndis.sys, Epfwwfp.sys, kbdclass.sys, storahci.sys get damaged. Typically, it shows up in Windows boot phase and prevents the system from booting up normally.
If the PC user can boot up the system, for example, using Safe Mode or Clean Boot, it’s advisable to follow the instructions of the experts immediately. First of all, it’s crucial to check the system for malware using a professional anti-malware. If a powerful security software does not recognize any viruses, the solution would be to update/reinstall the drivers. In case the PC can't be started, the only solution would be to use a bootable USB drive[2] and boot the system from it to fix DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error.
Unfortunately, but the matters go worse if the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL error is related to ndistpr64.sys file. Computer security experts have already identified it as an undesirable and classified it as malware[3] and PUP.
However, the fact that ndistpr64.sys error usually prevents the system from booting makes people believe that they caught a serious cyber infection. Technically, the ndistpr64.sys file is known as a software driver, which can be added to the system by the SmartService Trojan, which blocks anti-virus and other security software from running.
Consequently, if the PC owner encounters the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (ndistpr64.sys) BSOD, he/she will not be able to boot the PC, except in Safe Mode. Anyway, the SmartService Trojan may block the anti-virus with “The requested resource is in use” error message. If you are having this exact issue, try using the following instructions below to fix DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (ndistpr64.sys) BSOD and regain the operation of your PC.
Step 1. Boot your PC into Safe Mode
DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL (ndistpr64.sys) error is usually encountered when malicious files make modifications to the system, hence it is unable to boot in normal mode. Since ndistpr64.sys driver software is not crucial for a system’s performance, and it’s advisable to remove it without delay. To be able to access it, you have to boot your machine in Safe Mode:
- Restart your PC.
- When the system configuration window shows up, select Troubleshoot.
- Click on Advanced Options.
- On the Startup Settings screen, select Enable Safe Mode and then Restart.
Step 2. Launch Command Prompt to remove ndistpr64.sys
Command Prompt needs to be accessed in order to eliminate the problematic file and fix ndistpr64.sys error:
- When the system boots up, click on Start button and type cmd or Command Prompt.
- Right-click on the search results and select Run as Administrator.
- Or right-click on Windows key and select Command Prompt (Admin) (older builds).
- Type DEL /F /S /Q /A C:\\Windows\\System32\\drivers\\ ndistpr64.sys (without quotes) and press Enter.
Step 3. Run a scan with anti-malware software
Before rebooting the system after the removal of ndistpr64.sys file, we would recommend running a scan with a professional anti-malware. As we have already pointed out, the file itself is not the crucial system file. Contrary, it is recognized as a potentially unwanted program or virus, which may lead to serious issues, including total system crash or the infection of ransomware. Often it is distributed along with other malicious files, so we would strongly recommend running a scan with FortectMac Washing Machine X9 or another professional anti-virus.
In case the SmartService Trojan blocks Reimage or another anti-malware that is installed on your PC, try to run Windows Defender offline or install another security software. If that does not help, enable a System Restore Point if you had created it before the issues with the BSOD started. Hopefully, this article was useful, and you have managed to fix ndistpr64.sys BSOD without difficulties.
Repair your Errors automatically
ugetfix.com team is trying to do its best to help users find the best solutions for eliminating their errors. If you don't want to struggle with manual repair techniques, please use the automatic software. All recommended products have been tested and approved by our professionals. Tools that you can use to fix your error are listed bellow:
Access geo-restricted video content with a VPN
Private Internet Access is a VPN that can prevent your Internet Service Provider, the government, and third-parties from tracking your online and allow you to stay completely anonymous. The software provides dedicated servers for torrenting and streaming, ensuring optimal performance and not slowing you down. You can also bypass geo-restrictions and view such services as Netflix, BBC, Disney+, and other popular streaming services without limitations, regardless of where you are.
Don’t pay ransomware authors – use alternative data recovery options
Malware attacks, particularly ransomware, are by far the biggest danger to your pictures, videos, work, or school files. Since cybercriminals use a robust encryption algorithm to lock data, it can no longer be used until a ransom in bitcoin is paid. Instead of paying hackers, you should first try to use alternative recovery methods that could help you to retrieve at least some portion of the lost data. Otherwise, you could also lose your money, along with the files. One of the best tools that could restore at least some of the encrypted files – Data Recovery Pro.
Jake Doe is the news editor at UGetFix. Since he met Ugnius Kiguolis in 2003, they both launched several projects that spread awareness about cybercrimes, malware, and other computer-related problems.
- ^ Blue Screen of Death (BSoD). Technopedia. Helps you better understand technology.
- ^ How to create a bootable Windows USB drive. Computer Hope. Free computer help.
- ^ Malware. Wikipedia. The Free Encyclopedia.
