If your computer is crashing unexpectedly, freezing, or showing the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), one of the first suspects should be your system memory (RAM).
Faulty or unstable RAM can cause
unpredictable system behaviour — but thankfully, Windows includes a built-in
tool to help identify memory-related problems: Windows Memory Diagnostic
Tool.
In this article, we’ll walk you through what the tool does,
how to run it, multiple ways to access it, and how to interpret the results.
Why RAM Issues Happen
Before diving into diagnostics, it helps to understand why
RAM problems occur in the first place. Common causes include:
- Faulty
or aging hardware – RAM modules can degrade over time or fail outright.
- Improper
installation –
A loose or poorly seated RAM stick can trigger random crashes.
- Incompatible
memory – Mixing
different types or speeds of RAM can cause system instability.
- Overheating – Excess heat from poor
ventilation or dust buildup can damage RAM.
- Overclocking – Running RAM beyond its rated
speed may improve performance but can reduce stability.
- Power
issues –
Fluctuations or a failing power supply can corrupt data in memory.
Knowing these causes helps you decide whether you’re dealing
with hardware failure, installation issues, or external factors.
What Is the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool?
The Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool is a built-in utility
designed to test your computer’s RAM for errors. Unlike traditional software
troubleshooting, this tool runs outside of Windows during boot, ensuring that
your memory is tested without interference from running applications or
drivers.
It’s especially useful if you’re experiencing:
- Random
system crashes or reboots
- Blue
Screen errors (often with MEMORY_MANAGEMENT codes)
- Application
crashes without clear cause
- Freezes
during gaming or heavy multitasking
How to Open the Memory Diagnostic Tool in Windows 10 and 11
There are several ways to access the tool:
1.
Run Command (Quickest)
o Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe,
and press Enter.
2.
Start Menu Search
o Click the Start Menu (or press
Win key) and type Windows Memory Diagnostic.
o Select the app from the results.
3.
Control Panel
o Open Control Panel → Administrative
Tools → Windows Memory Diagnostic.
4.
Settings Search (Windows 11)
o Press Win + I to open
Settings.
o Use the search bar and type Memory
Diagnostic, then select it.
All these methods launch the same tool, and you’ll get two
choices:
- Restart
now and check for problems
- Check
for problems the next time I start my computer
How the Test Works
1.
Restart & Begin Testing
o If you choose to restart, your PC
will boot into the Memory Diagnostic environment.
2.
Testing Modes
o Press F1 for options:
§ Basic – Quick test for obvious issues
§ Standard – Balanced test (default)
§ Extended – In-depth scan (slower but more
thorough)
3.
Test Progress
o The tool runs two passes to
ensure reliability.
o You’ll see the percentage complete
and real-time status of detected issues.
After the Test: Viewing Results
Once complete:
- Your
computer will restart automatically.
- Windows
will display the test results in a notification.
To check manually:
1.
Press
Win + R, type eventvwr.msc, and hit Enter.
2.
Go
to: Windows Logs > System.
3.
Look
for entries labelled MemoryDiagnostics-Results.
What to Do If Errors Are Found
If the tool detects memory issues:
1.
Reseat your RAM
– Shut down, unplug your PC, and firmly reinstall RAM sticks.
2.
Test sticks individually – Run the tool again with one RAM stick at a time.
3.
Try different slots – A failing motherboard slot can mimic RAM issues.
4.
Replace faulty RAM – If a stick consistently fails, replacement is the best option.
Pro Tips for IT Professionals & Power Users
- Use MemTest86
for advanced testing beyond Windows’ built-in tool.
- Check
for BIOS/UEFI updates, which may improve memory compatibility.
- Ensure
adequate cooling to prevent heat-induced instability.
- Test
with a reliable power supply, since unstable voltage can cause
memory corruption.
Final Thoughts
The Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool is a quick and reliable
first step in ruling out RAM issues when troubleshooting a slow or unstable
system. By understanding why RAM fails, knowing how to launch the tool, and
learning how to interpret results, you can save valuable time and pinpoint
whether your problem is software-related or truly a hardware failure.
👉 If you’ve run into RAM problems before, did this tool help you? Share
your troubleshooting stories in the comments — they might help someone else
save their system!
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is intended for educational and troubleshooting purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the use of third-party software and tools is at your own discretion and risk. We do not endorse or provide warranties for any of the mentioned tools. Always back up your important data before performing hardware diagnostics or making changes to your system. If you are unsure or uncomfortable performing these steps, seek assistance from a qualified IT professional.
