How to Test Your Computer’s RAM for Problems and Errors

Is your computer unstable? There may be a problem with its RAM (Random Access Memory). Today lets know how to check RAM problem for either a laptop or a desktop PC. You can use a hidden system tool included with Windows or download a more advanced tool to use. Let us know how to use the Windows Diagnostic Tool.

The tools we are going to use both function by writing data to each sector of your computer’s RAM and then reading it back in turn. If the tool reads a different value, this indicates that your RAM is faulty.

Option 1: Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic

To launch the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool, open the Start menu, type “Windows Memory Diagnostic”, and press Enter.

You can also press Windows Key + R, type “mdsched.exe” into the Run dialog that appears, and press Enter.

You’ll need to reboot your computer for the test to run during POST meaning while the test is happening, you won’t be able to use your computer.

NOTE: Be sure to save your work first.

Then to agree, click “Restart now and check for problems (recommended)”.  Your computer will immediately restart.

Your computer will restart and the Windows Memory Diagnostics Tool screen will appear. Just leave it be and let it perform the test. This may take several minutes. During this process, you’ll see a progress bar and a “Status” message will inform you if any problems have been detected during the process.

When it’s done, your computer will automatically reboot and return to the Windows desktop. After you log in, the test results will appear. If it does not appear you can do this...

Open Event Viewer by Right-clicking the "Start button" and select “Event Viewer” and press Enter.
If you’re using Windows 7, press Windows Key + R, type “eventvwr.msc” into the Run dialog, and press Enter.

Navigate to Windows Logs > System. You’ll see a list of a large number of events. Click “Find” in the right pane.

Type “MemoryDiagnostic” into the find box and click “Find Next”. You’ll see the result displayed at the bottom of the window.

If memory tests give you errors, it’s very possible that your RAM–at least one of the sticks–is faulty and needs to be replaced.

However, if you have just installed a new RAM on the Motherboard then it's also possible that the RAM isn’t compatible with your motherboard for some reason. It’s also possible that your RAM can’t reliably run at its current speeds, so you may want to adjust your RAM speed to a lower setting in your UEFI or BIOS settings screen.
After making a change, you can run the RAM test again to see if there’s a problem.