: This is recommended. Save your work first , as your computer will restart immediately.
Unlike a hard drive failure, which often gives warning signs like slow file access, RAM issues can be intermittent. Your computer might run fine for two hours and crash the moment you open a memory-intensive game or Chrome tab.
Alternatively, type "Windows Memory Diagnostic" into the Start menu search bar and click the result. how to run memory test windows 11
Windows should show a notification with the results after you log back in. If you miss it, follow these steps to find them manually: How to Use Windows Memory Diagnostic | Microsoft Surface
| Result | What to Do | | :--- | :--- | | | Your RAM is likely healthy. Check other hardware (hard drive, CPU temps) or drivers. | | 1 or 2 errors | RAM is failing. Test each stick separately to find the culprit. | | Hundreds of errors | Definite hardware failure. Replace the RAM immediately. | : This is recommended
A pop-up window will appear with two options:
Your RAM is faulty. Run the test again with each stick individually to identify the bad module. You will likely need to replace the affected RAM. Your computer might run fine for two hours
Alternative : Press , type mdsched.exe , and click OK . Choose a restart option :
Start with the built-in tool (Method 1). If you get errors, verify with MemTest86 (Method 3). By following these steps, you can rule out hardware failure or pinpoint the exact component causing your headaches.
This is a third-party tool that runs from a USB stick outside of Windows. Because it doesn't load the operating system, it can test more of the RAM with fewer restrictions.