Random Access Memory (RAM) is one of the most critical components in your computer. It acts as the system’s short-term memory, holding data that the CPU needs to access quickly. When RAM starts to fail, the consequences can be baffling and severe: random crashes, Blue Screens of Death (BSODs), file corruption, and application freezes.
By default, the tool runs the test mix. You will see a progress bar and a status message (e.g., "Pass 1 of 2"). While it runs, you can press F1 to access advanced options: windows memory diagnostic
Use WMD for a quick first-pass test. If it finds errors, you are done (replace RAM). If it finds no errors but problems persist, run MemTest86 for a more thorough investigation. Random Access Memory (RAM) is one of the
Look for an event with or 1201 . The message will clearly state: By default, the tool runs the test mix
Windows Memory Diagnostic is a reliable, no-cost memory testing tool integrated directly into the Windows operating system (starting with Windows Vista and present in Windows 10 and 11). Unlike third-party tools like MemTest86, WMD runs outside of Windows—typically from the bootloader—allowing it to test memory that is not in use by the operating system.
If your computer is suffering from the "Blue Screen of Death" (BSOD), random freezes, or unexplained crashes, the culprit might be your Random Access Memory (RAM). Before you buy new hardware, Windows offers a built-in, powerful tool to check your system's health: .
You can launch the tool in several ways across Windows 10 and 11: