By default, the tool runs the test mix. This is usually sufficient for catching most errors. It will cycle through your RAM multiple times. A pass can take anywhere from 10 minutes to over an hour depending on how much RAM you have (16GB or 32GB takes longer than 8GB).
Windows doesn't shove the answer in your face immediately.
Once opened, you’ll see two options:
System instability occurs when your operating system tries to store data in a corrupted memory sector. Windows 11 includes a powerful, built-in tool called the to help you identify and resolve these hardware issues without downloading third-party software. Method 1: The Quickest Way (Run Command)
A log entry will appear. Here is how to translate the tech-speak:
: Go to Start > Windows Tools and double-click Windows Memory Diagnostic . 2. Selecting the Restart Option
Save all your work before clicking "Restart now." The tool shuts down Windows immediately to take control of the hardware.
When memory corruption prevents Windows 11 from loading normally, you can run the test from the recovery environment.
| | [✓ Pass – No errors found / ✗ Fail – Errors detected] | |------------|-----------------------------------------------------------| | Event ID | 1101 (Information) or 1102 (Error) | | Summary | [e.g., The Windows Memory Diagnostic tested the computer's memory and detected no errors.] |