How to diagnose memory failure in Windows?

Memory is one of the most important components in any computer system. Unfortunately, memory can fail due to various reasons such as an electrical surge, physical damage, incompatible components, or a software issue. Diagnosing memory failure in Windows can be a difficult process, but it doesn’t have to be impossible. With the right tools and procedures, you can determine the cause of your memory issue and take corrective action.

This article will take you through the different steps involved in diagnosing memory failure in Windows.

1. Check the BIOS

The BIOS (Basic Input Output System) is a firmware program responsible for the initial start-up of your computer and underlying hardware. It is important to check whether your system is detecting the correct amount of RAM installed. To do this, restart your system and press the “F2” or “Del” key (depending on your BIOS type) during bootup to enter the BIOS menu. Once inside, make sure you are in the Memory tab and look for the ‘Total Memory’ option which should list the total amount of RAM installed in your system. If the number does not match what you have physically installed, then there is likely a problem with either the BIOS setting or the RAM module itself.

2. Test With MemTest86+

MemTest86+ is a diagnostic utility designed to detect memory errors in Windows. It is a free utility and can be downloaded from the official website. Once installed, you can boot your system using MemTest86+ and let it run its tests. If any errors are found, there is likely a problem with either the RAM module, the motherboard or the operating system itself.

3. Use Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

Windows includes a built-in memory diagnostic tool that can scan your system’s RAM for errors. To access it, you need to open the Run box by pressing the “Windows + R” keys and typing “mdsched.exe”. You should then be presented with the Windows Memory Diagnostic window where you can choose to restart your system and start scanning for errors. The scan should take a few minutes and if any errors are found, the tool will prompt you to take the necessary corrective actions.

4. Perform System Stress Tests

If you have ruled out any hardware issues and believe that the root cause of your memory failure is related to software or driver issues, then running stress tests can help you identify the exact cause. Stress tests simulate high load conditions and can find bugs that may only be present under real-world scenarios. Popular stress testing programs include Prime95 and FurMark.

5. Reinstall the Operating System

As a last resort, if none of the aforementioned solutions have worked, then you can try reinstalling the operating system. This will wipe out any potential software or driver corruption and help you start fresh. Make sure to back up any important files before performing a clean install.

These are the five steps involved in diagnosing memory failure in Windows. By following these steps, you should be able to pinpoint the cause of your memory issue and take necessary corrective action. Good luck!