How to Test RAM With Windows Memory Diagnostic

How to Test RAM With Windows Memory Diagnostic

Faulty memory (RAM) causes some of the most confusing PC problems: random blue screens, sudden restarts, apps that crash for no reason and files that get corrupted. Windows 11 and Windows 10 include a free tool that tests your RAM, called Windows Memory Diagnostic. Here's how to run it and what the result means.

Signs Your RAM Might Be Faulty

• Blue screens with different stop codes each time, such as MEMORY_MANAGEMENT or PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA.
• The PC restarts or freezes at random, even when idle.
• Programs crash or files are corrupt after saving.
• Problems started after adding or moving a memory stick.
• The PC beeps or won't start at all (in that case Windows can't run the test; see the end of this guide).

These signs can have other causes too, which is why a test helps. For crash-related issues, also see Windows blue screen of death: frequent crashes.

Before You Start

• Save your work and close all apps. The test runs after a restart, outside Windows.
• If you use BitLocker device encryption, make sure you know where your recovery key is (it's normally in your Microsoft account). Restarts into a test don't usually ask for it, but it's good to have.
• On a laptop, plug in the charger. The test can take a while.

How to Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

1. Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe and press Enter. You can also click Start, type Windows Memory Diagnostic and open it.
2. Choose Restart now and check for problems (recommended). If you can't restart now, choose Check for problems the next time I start my computer.
3. The PC restarts into a blue test screen that shows its progress and the pass number. Don't turn the PC off while it runs.
4. When it finishes, the PC restarts into Windows by itself.

Choose a Test Level (Optional)

While the test screen is showing, press F1 to open the options:

Test mix	What it does	Typical time
Basic	A quick check with a few tests	A few minutes
Standard (default)	The normal set of tests	About 10-30 minutes
Extended	All tests, including more thorough ones	Several hours

You can also change the Pass count (how many times the tests repeat, default 2) and the cache setting. Use Tab to move between sections and F10 to start with the new settings.

Tip: if crashes happen rarely, run the Extended test overnight. Intermittent faults often only show up after many passes.

How to Find the Results

After you sign in again, Windows usually shows a notification with the result. If you missed it:

1. Right-click Start and choose Event Viewer.
2. Open Windows Logs > System.
3. In the right pane, click Filter Current Log.
4. In the Event sources list, tick MemoryDiagnostics-Results and click OK.
5. Open the newest entry. It says either that no errors were detected or that hardware problems were found.

If the list is empty, the test may not have completed. Run it again and let it finish.

What to Do If Errors Are Found

A memory error usually means a hardware fault. Work through these steps:

1. Reseat the memory. Shut down, unplug the PC (and remove the laptop battery if it's removable), and hold the power button for a few seconds. Then remove each RAM stick and push it firmly back into its slot until the clips click. Touch a metal part of the case first to discharge static.
2. Test one stick at a time. With several sticks, leave only one installed, run the test, and repeat for each. The stick that fails is the faulty one. Also try a different slot, since a slot can be faulty too.
3. Undo overclocking. If you enabled XMP/EXPO or overclocked the memory in the BIOS/UEFI, set it back to default speeds and test again. Unstable speed settings produce the same errors as a bad stick.
4. Replace the faulty RAM. Memory can't be repaired. Check the warranty first; many memory makers offer long warranties. Buy the same type and speed your PC supports (the PC or motherboard maker's support page lists it).

Many thin laptops have the RAM soldered to the motherboard. If the test finds errors on such a laptop, it needs a repair by the maker or a repair shop.

What If No Errors Were Found?

A clean result makes faulty RAM less likely, but not impossible. If the crashes continue:

• Run the Extended test with more passes.
• Check the other common causes: drivers, overheating and power. Our guide on a PC that keeps restarting on its own goes through them in order.
• Check the drive as well, since a failing drive also causes crashes and corrupt files.
• If the PC is simply slow rather than crashing, the amount of RAM matters more than its health; see Windows running slow: 15 fixes.

PC Won't Start Far Enough to Run the Test?

If Windows won't start, you can't run mdsched from inside it. Try the reseating steps above, then start with one stick installed. Many PC makers also have a built-in hardware diagnostic you can start from the power-on screen (check your maker's support page for the key to press). If it still won't boot, see Windows won't boot: 12 fixes, or ask a repair shop or our support team to check the hardware.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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